truly beautiful

Rating: Null/10 (20 June 1999)

I consider this film among the best of it's kind. It is equally terrific along side with The Godfather. It is also among Sergio Leone's best films (the good, the bad, and the ugly).
This is an epic gangster film concerning 4 jewish hoodlums/pals. They are drawn into the organized crime lifestyle at a very young age. They all hit it rich one day, and they hide they're savings. One of the pals kills an old rival, and a police officer, and he goes to jail. Years later, he returns to find his friends joining in the bandwagon of the prohibition, and establishing their own speakeasy.
The film includes great performances by De Niro, and Woods. The chemistry between these 2 greats is remarkable. Ennio Morricone's score is as memorable as The Godfather's musical score, and it stays with you for a long time. The film is ultra violent and at times very disturbing. Even an unexpected rape scene is included. Nevertheless, this movie is flawless. It has a very hardcore Italian film look which makes the movie so beautiful and unique. All film buff's must see!