Not Even Close. Leone Fails.

Rating: 1/10 (9 March 2015)

Of all the entries in the gangster/mob genre, this one is by far, my least favorite. The drawn-out, extended opening of this film sets the stage for a rather lengthy (more than 3 and 1/2 hours) and far-fetched story about the rise of Jewish mobsters in New York City. Although a huge fan of his, I have to admit that this is one film where Robert DeNiro just does not seem to fit. While James Woods turns in a competent performance, he too just seems a bit over the top and unconvincing. The rest of the cast, as well, while convincing at certain points, doesn't seem to gel and many of the scenes should have been shortened or deleted completely. The storyline is poor and leaves nothing memorable. Clearly, this is one genre where Sergio Leone just does not belong.