the most likable gangster ever.

Rating: 8/10 (28 November 2002)

It is important to remember that in probably every gangster film, from the Public Enemy to Goodfellas, the anti- heroes are hugely likable characters who we easily gain empathy more. Al Pacino as Lefty is so convincing as an ignored foot soldier and world weary gangster, it is easy to see why joe/donnie likes him so much. It continually amazes me that in the 90's, Pacino just by the gestures,postures, and voices he employed in his characterisations seemed to jump between ages. As frank slade he seemed like a washed up blind man, who to get out bed was a strain, whilst in the same year, as Carlito he seemed twenty years younger.
Donnie Brasco is another fine example of this. At times he seems as old as your grandad but always somehow manages to mix menace with pathos and humour. Donnie Brasco- the last great gangster movie.It not as magnificent as the godfather or as epic as Casino, but in it's portrayal of the insidous nature of the 'life'on even straight shooters like Depp it is unrivaled. Definitely an 8.5