THE ALTO KNIGHTS

Robert De Niro plays double duty as both Frank Costello & Vito Genovese, following their good times growing up together in New York City until their ultimate falling out later in their lives. Supporting both men are their wives played by Debra Messing (Bobbie Costello) and Kathrine Narducci (Anna Genovese). Even after watching the film I'm still confused why they had De Niro play both roles of Frank and Vito? And while De Niro is more than capable of turning in 2 very distinct and divisive roles, I'm just wondering why they couldn't find someone else to help him share the load? Was Pacino unavailable as you can never get enough of those 2 icons going head-to-head onscreen. As I will admit, I had flashes of William Forsythe's Flattop from DICK TRACY while seeing De Niro act with all of the makeup they put on him for the role of Vito. Not to mention the pairing of him and Messing seemed awkward at times due to him being 25 years her senior. But at the age of 81 De Niro, pulling double duty, proves to us yet again he never lost it. Unfortunately, this isn't writer Nicholas Pileggi's best effort compared to previous works of his like GOODFELLAS or CASINO, nor will this be remembered as such. Will probably be forgotten as quickly as it came. 6.5/10