True Crime Story

Rating: 6/10 (26 February 2010)

Based upon the truest of true stories, "Donnie Brasco" presents us with a thoroughly researched look at an influential crime family that is undone by a Federal agent who literally becomes one of them. The film is based on Joe Pistone's autobiographical novel which details his infiltration of a world that rarely allows outsiders in.
The film's problem is, it lacks a beginning, a middle, and an end. Or the basic elements of a story. Sure this is based on reality, yet "Donnie Brasco" is no more than an episode in the life of some gangsters and an undercover agent. It is hard, therefore, for the audience to really get involved, especially given the lack of background we get regarding Donnie and his cohorts.
Having said this, the pic is well made and solidly acted, with Depp again impressing as the title character who is at war within himself and with those he loves over who he is. The film is made for Al Pacino, who slides into the role of the world weary gangster who adopts "Donnie Brasco" and grooms him as he would have a son. Also stars Michael Madsen, Bruno Kirby and Anne Heche, very strong as the neglected wife of an agent who has forgotten what he was.
Friday, August 14, 1998 - Video