Review of A Bronx Tale (1993) by Jay L — 01 Apr 2011

"You can ask anyone from my neighborhood, and they'll tell you this is just another Bronx tale.".

A solid Directorial debut from Robert Deniro, A Bronx Tale is one of the best coming of age stories that I've been witness to. A rookie directorial effort from a legendary and iconic actor, you can count me in. Deniro's finnicky direction just adds more depth and substance to the film, you can tell the man hasn't been behind the camera all to often. A Bronx Tale is a story of family, loyalty, fear, and trust. It's the story of nearly an entire life on the streets of the Bronx, and the lessons that are taught along the way. One man's fight to steer his son to an honest lifestlye, a life that doesn't involve the local Sicilian mob. A working man's life, a life without danger and fear around every corner. Watch as one boys life is shaped by those around and closest to him, and the decisions that are made to make him who he is. An awesome story that's heartfelt and moving, yet violent and raw. Its about morals, racism, and adolecence than anything else. It's a film that I consider to be the far less superior 3rd cousin of Goodfellas.

The acting is superb. Chazz Palminteri leads the cast as the local mafia boss, in the best, if not the best performance of his career. Very convincing. Robert Deniro, he never disappoints. He's excellent once again in this laid back and subdued act. It also features decent acting from an unknown in the lead, Lillo Brancato Jr. It was also a nice touch to see Joe Pesci in the final moments, I would have liked to see alot more of him in this film.