This cinematic release showcases the legendary actor Robert De Niro taking on two pivotal roles as real-life Mafia figures, Frank Costello and Vito Genovese. The film delves into their intertwined lives, from childhood friends to bitter rivals, while reflecting on the decline of the Mafia’s influence in America. Directed by Barry Levinson and produced by Irwin Winkler, this project reunites De Niro with his long-time collaborators. Nicholas Pileggi, renowned for writing scripts based on Mafia culture, crafted the screenplay. The movie not only highlights De Niro's acting prowess but also explores themes of betrayal, power dynamics, and societal change within organized crime.
De Niro's decision to portray both characters was a significant challenge, requiring distinct vocal patterns and physical transformations. His co-star, Debra Messing, playing Costello's wife, shares insights into working with the veteran actor and discusses her character's unique background as the spouse of a mob boss who defied traditional norms by marrying outside his ethnicity. Through meticulous preparation and dedication, De Niro delivers a performance that underscores the complexities of these historical figures.
The Art of Portraying Dual Characters
In "The Alto Knights," Robert De Niro undertakes an ambitious task by embodying two contrasting personalities: Frank Costello and Vito Genovese. This creative choice required him to differentiate between the two through subtle yet effective adjustments in mannerisms and speech. By adopting a clipped accent for one role and a more aggressive tone for the other, De Niro successfully brings out the nuances of each character. His commitment to authenticity involved extensive research into the original films featuring these mobsters, despite limited material being available.
Playing dual roles presented unique challenges, especially during scenes where he interacted with himself as both characters. To achieve this, De Niro rehearsed extensively with another actor, Joe Bacino, who stood in for one of the roles. This collaborative process allowed for natural improvisation and ensured seamless transitions between dialogues. Director Barry Levinson noted how De Niro developed distinct rhythms for each persona, emphasizing their divergent paths after sharing a common upbringing. Such meticulous attention to detail enriched the narrative depth, making it a compelling study of human transformation under pressure.
Behind the Scenes: Collaborations and Character Development
Beyond the screen, the production of "The Alto Knights" revealed fascinating aspects of collaboration among its cast and crew. Comedian-turned-actress Debra Messing joined the ensemble as Bobbie, Frank Costello's supportive spouse. Initially intimidated by De Niro's reputation, she soon discovered his approachable nature and willingness to guide fellow actors. Her portrayal benefited greatly from observing De Niro's methods, which often included exploring tangential topics before returning to the script. This technique helped build richer layers into her character, adding authenticity to the overall story.
Nicholas Pileggi's involvement added credibility to the narrative, drawing upon his expertise in chronicling Mafia history. The film's exploration of Frank Costello's marriage to a Jewish woman highlighted an unconventional aspect of mob life, challenging stereotypes about organized crime families. For Messing, this element provided a fresh perspective, allowing her to delve deeper into her character's strength and independence. As director Levinson observed, leaving space for individual creativity resulted in performances that resonated deeply with audiences. Ultimately, "The Alto Knights" stands as a testament to the power of teamwork and artistic innovation, capturing the essence of two men whose lives exemplify the duality inherent in human nature.