Review of Mobsters (1991) by Tonypolito — 15 Aug 2010
A fairly-true telling of the birth of 20th Century New York City organized crime that, as such, qualifies as worthy viewing.
The film could have been a dramatic classic--instead of being mostly forgotten--had it been directed by proven talent, instead of being entrusted to Karbelnikoff, whose only experience was shooting TV commercials.
Given his background, it's not surprising he thought the lead actors should be pretty boys before solid dramatic talent. Or that viewer interest in gangster films derives mainly from gore and bloodshed. Or that when Lucky Luciano and his lover canoodled they looked like a Calvin Klein ad. Or that pretty palettes are central to cinema success.
Still, there's no other film that clearly tells the details of how The Five Families were formed out of the street gangs of early 20th Century New York unless you wade through some History Channel products.
The only real delivery on deck is Quinn as the capo under siege. Karbelnikoff might have learned something from seeing what Quinn could do, but since he was never entrusted with a script again, that's a moot point.
Oh well, it was nice that Karbelnikoff took the time to show the audience close-up how to properly make Italian espresso using a Bialetti Moka Express.
For the true-enough basic plotline, recommended.
This review of Mobsters (1991) was written by Tonypolito on 15 Aug 2010.
Mobsters has generally received mixed reviews.
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