Fast - paced, action - packed, and based on a true story
Disadvantages:
Nothing too special
Recommend to potential buyers:
yes
Full review
Donnie Brasco is a film based on the autobiography of former undercover agent Joseph D. Pistone, 'Donnie Brasco, My Undercover Life In The Mafia' .
It tells the story of Pistone (Johnny Depp), an FBI mole who ingratiates himself into the Mafia pecking order by posing as 'jewel man' Donnie Brasco. Using all the skills he picks up in the FBI, he manages to quickly gain the trust and respect of the gangsters.
When Lefty Ruggiero (Al Pacino), a jaded hit man, takes Donnie under his wing as his protege, the two form a friendship and criminal relationship that jeopardizes the mission. Donnie's feelings towards Lefty show weakness, and obscurity between the boundaries of law and the criminal underground.
Donnie believes that Lefty is just a person who has made mistakes, and shows clear sympathy with him, but the fact remains that he's broken the law and needs a long stretch inside. But can Donnie bring himself to bring Lefty to justice?
With Pacino and Depp on board, this film boasts a superb array of acting talent, and duly delivers. Al Pacino has acted in many gangster films in the past, but this shows an entirely different sort of person.
Lefty isn't rich, powerful, or too well respected any more. Pacino superbly portrays a man who is trying to break free, but is afraid of the consequences.
Depp is equally brilliant as Pistone, a man who gets so caught up in his work that he begins to forget what is most important to him. He is a hugely diverse actor, which shows when he this time plays the cop who lets feelings get in the way of work.
The only other performance of particular note is Michael Madsen, who plays the role of Sonny Black, another gangster.
It is directed pretty well by Mike Newell, who adds a little extra to the action scenes with some nice work. Overall, the edits and cuts are pretty good, adding an extra dimension to the film.
Two scenes to look out for - the 'leg' scene, and the scene with the Japanese waiter, they will make your skin crawl!
On the whole this is a great Mafioso movie, and perfect for a night-in film.
More details
Soundtrack
Good
How does it compare to others by the same director?
Outstanding
Value for Money
Good
What format are you reviewing?
Film only
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