Touching Gangster Story

Rating: Null/10 (29 February 2008)

Donnie Brasco (1997)
*** 1/2 (out of 4)
A different type of Mafia movie centers on the relationship between an undercover FBI agent (Johnny Depp) and the older, somewhat ordinary gangster (Al Pacino) who never really was special enough to move up in the ranks. DONNIE BRASCO isn't a masterpiece by any stretch of the imagination but it's certainly an intense, highly entertaining and at times thought-provoking film that manages to have many strong points. There's no question that the strongest is the relationship between the two men and this is perfectly brought to life thanks to the terrific performances by the two leads. By this point in his career Pacino could play a gangster in his sleep but the character of Lefty is certainly something very different than what we've seen from him in the past. The most noticeable thing is that this guy is pretty much a sad loser. There's really nothing special about him and I really loved the low quality that Pacino brings to him. There's just a certain sadness that floats around this guy and Pacino simply nails the role. Depp is just as impressive as the undercover agent who quickly finds himself becoming like the men he's spying on. The relationship and chemistry between the two actors is simply wonderful and certainly carries the picture. There's also strong support from the likes of Michael Madsen, Bruno Kirby and Anne Heche. What I enjoyed most outside the performances was the fact that the movie also has a good sense of humor. There are some very intense moments scattered throughout the picture and especially the constant fear of one of the two leads getting killed but there are also some clever bits of comedy thrown in. The late 70's and early 80's setting is also perfectly captured by director Mike Newell who also manages to keep the film moving at a very good pace. With so many gangster movies out there it's sometimes hard to find one that gives us a new and fresh look at the subject. DONNIE BRASCO does that and it's certainly one worth watching.