Brooklyn Rules

Brooklyn Rules is a crime drama movie that was released in 2007. Directed by Michael Corrente, the movie showcases the life of a young Italian-American man named Michael (played by Paulo Araujo) who lives in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. Along with his two friends, Carmine (played by Scott Caan) and Bobby (played by Jerry Ferrara), Michael navigates through the harsh realities of growing up in a working-class neighborhood during the 1980s.

The movie begins with Michael being accepted into an Ivy League college in Massachusetts, which provides him with an opportunity to leave Brooklyn and make something of himself. However, his dream of a better life is put on hold when he becomes involved with the local mob boss, Caesar Manganaro (played by Alec Baldwin), who happens to be Carmine's uncle. Caesar takes a liking to Michael and offers him a job as his personal assistant, which turns out to be more complex than Michael initially imagined.

Meanwhile, Bobby, Michael's childhood friend, is struggling to find his place in the world. He wants to be a writer but works as a busboy at a local restaurant to make ends meet. Bobby's life takes a dangerous turn when he gets caught up with a rival gang that is at war with Caesar's organization. To make matters worse, Carmine is dating a girl named Ellen (played by Mena Suvari), who is the sister of one of the rival gang's leaders.

As the tension between the two gangs rises, Michael is forced to choose between his loyalty to Caesar and his desire to protect his friends. He becomes more involved in the criminal underworld, committing more dangerous acts and putting himself and his loved ones at risk. His relationship with Ellen adds another layer of complexity to the story, as he tries to reconcile his feelings for her with his loyalty to Caesar.

Brooklyn Rules is a well-written and well-acted movie that captures the essence of Brooklyn in the 1980s. The film's tension and drama are heightened by the excellent performances of the cast. Paulo Araujo is particularly impressive as Michael, conveying a range of emotions as he navigates the dangerous world of organized crime. Scott Caan and Jerry Ferrara, who both played supporting roles, are equally impressive, bringing depth and nuance to their characters.

The movie also explores themes of loyalty, friendship, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Michael and his friends embody the classic American narrative of people who are trying to better themselves, but who are held back by their circumstances. The film highlights the challenges that young people face when trying to break free from their past and the price that they sometimes pay for their ambitions.

In terms of production value, Brooklyn Rules is a well-made movie that captures the grittiness of Brooklyn in the 1980s. The film's cinematography and score are both impressive, creating a tense and moody atmosphere that adds to the movie's dramatic impact. The authenticity of the production design, costumes, and props also adds to the film's realism, making it a true throwback to the time period.

Overall, Brooklyn Rules is an engaging and well-crafted film that is sure to appeal to fans of crime dramas and coming-of-age movies. The intricate plot, strong performances, and realistic portrayal of Brooklyn in the 1980s make it a must-see for anyone who loves a good story. Whether you're a fan of the genre or just looking for a compelling movie to watch, Brooklyn Rules is definitely worth checking out.