Told
in flashbacks and covering the 1940s through near present, Frank Sheeran (Robert DeNiro) rises through the ranks of longshoreman
to become assistant of powerful union boss, Jimmy Hoffa (Al Pacino), all the
while developing close ties with local mob bosses as a hitman. He is a man
who protects his family and is a loyal mob soldier who is capable of sudden, jarring
violence. As Hoffa’s legal troubles mount, and the mob under increased scrutiny
by the Fed, perhaps the most famous unsolved murder is reenacted and with it the
devastating, personal consequences.
The
relationship and bond between Sheeran and Hoffa is the centerpiece that propels
the narrative as Pacino and DeNiro excel. It’s
DeNiro’s best role in years while Pacino’s Hoffa is a proud man whose
intoxication with power and being a loose cannon with no filter leads to his
downfall. Joe Pesci and Harvey Keitel as
mobsters are a delight.
Like
an epic novel at over three hours, its excellent
screenplay focuses on the toll this way of life exacts on friendships and
family. Its themes of power and betrayal offer a fascinating look at union
corruption and political events linking JFK, the Bay of Pigs, and the creation
of Las Vegas. Whether this is all true is questionable, but it is realistically
presented. It’s the entire mobster arc
with a postscript that brings this tale full circle. This could very well be
the Scorsese’s last gangster film; if so, he goes out a winner.
**** of **** stars
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