The Alto Knights: Robert De Niro Returns to the Mafia World in a Dual Role

The legendary Robert De Niro is back in the world of organized crime with The Alto Knights, an upcoming biographical crime drama directed by Barry Levinson (Rain Man, Dopesick). Scheduled to hit theaters on March 21, 2025, the film is set in the turbulent world of the 1950s New York Mafia, exploring the rivalry between two infamous mob bosses, Vito Genovese and Frank Costello—both played by De Niro.

With a script penned by Nicholas Pileggi, the screenwriter behind Goodfellas and Casino, The Alto Knights promises to be a gripping, high-stakes crime saga filled with betrayal, power struggles, and the inner workings of the Mafia during one of its most pivotal eras.

A Tale of Betrayal and Power in the New York Underworld

Set in 1950s New York, The Alto Knights follows the rise and fall of two of the most powerful Mafia bosses of their time:

• Vito Genovese (Robert De Niro) – an ambitious and ruthless gangster determined to take full control of the American Mafia.

• Frank Costello (Robert De Niro) – a refined and politically connected crime lord who has built his empire with intelligence and diplomacy.

Once close allies, their friendship fractures as Genovese orchestrates an assassination attempt on Costello in a bid to consolidate power. Though Costello survives the attack, the failed hit shakes the foundations of the Mafia, ultimately leading him to reconsider his place in the underworld.

With themes of loyalty, ambition, and betrayal, the film dives deep into the personal and professional battles that shaped the Mafia in the mid-20th century, influencing organized crime in America for decades to come.

Robert De Niro’s Double Role: A Career-Defining Performance?

Few actors have embodied the mobster archetype as effectively as Robert De Niro. From The Godfather Part II and Goodfellas to Casino and The Irishman, De Niro has set the gold standard for performances in gangster films.

However, The Alto Knights presents a unique challenge: De Niro plays both Vito Genovese and Frank Costello, two vastly different crime bosses. The dual role will test his ability to craft two distinct personalities within the same narrative.

• As Genovese, De Niro will portray a brutal, power-hungry gangster willing to eliminate anyone in his way.

• As Costello, he will embody a calculating, old-school mob boss who uses influence and connections rather than brute force.

This dual performance could be one of the most ambitious and compelling of De Niro’s career, potentially positioning him for awards season recognition.

An All-Star Cast and Acclaimed Filmmaking Team

Alongside De Niro, The Alto Knights features a stellar ensemble cast, including:

• Debra Messing (Will & Grace) as Bobbie Costello, Frank Costello’s wife.

• Cosmo Jarvis (Shōgun) as Vincent Gigante, the hitman assigned to kill Costello.

• Kathrine Narducci (The Irishman) as Anna Genovese, Vito’s wife.

• Michael Rispoli (Billions) in a yet-to-be-revealed role.

Behind the camera, Barry Levinson directs with his signature blend of grit and cinematic storytelling, while Dante Spinotti (L.A. Confidential, The Insider) handles cinematography.

The screenplay comes from Nicholas Pileggi, the legendary writer behind Goodfellas and Casino, ensuring an authentic and gripping depiction of the crime world.

Why The Alto Knights Could Be One of 2025’s Biggest Films

1. A Return to Classic Mafia Cinema

Crime dramas like The Godfather, Goodfellas, and Casino have cemented their legacy in Hollywood. The Alto Knights revives this genre with a fresh yet nostalgic take on real-life events, making it a must-watch for fans of mob movies.

2. De Niro’s Double Role is a Major Selling Point

Seeing Robert De Niro play two legendary mob bosses in a single film is a cinematic event in itself. His ability to embody both characters convincingly will be one of the most talked-about aspects of the film.

3. Barry Levinson and Nicholas Pileggi – A Dream Team

With Levinson’s sharp direction and Pileggi’s mastery of Mafia storytelling, The Alto Knights has the potential to be a gritty, intelligent, and historically rich crime epic.

4. Warner Bros. and a Theatrical Release

Unlike many recent crime dramas that went directly to streaming, The Alto Knights is getting a wide theatrical release. This signals confidence in its box office potential and could lead to a resurgence of the Mafia genre on the big screen.

Release Date and Expectations

Worldwide Release:

• March 19, 2025 (International markets)

• March 21, 2025 (United States)

With a modest $45 million budget, the film has strong potential for profitability, especially given the timeless appeal of Mafia stories. If well-received, The Alto Knights could emerge as a major awards contender and a box office success.

Final Thoughts: A Mafia Epic for the Modern Age

With Robert De Niro leading the charge, The Alto Knights promises to be an electrifying return to classic Mafia storytelling. Featuring a gripping true story, an award-winning team, and a legendary cast, this film is shaping up to be one of 2025’s most anticipated releases.

Will The Alto Knights join the ranks of iconic Mafia films? We’ll find out when it hits theaters on March 21, 2025.

🎬 Stay tuned for more updates, trailers, and behind-the-scenes insights as the release date approaches!