Kill The Irishman

Kill The Irishman is a 2011 crime thriller based on a true story that took place in Cleveland, Ohio, during the 1970s. The film follows the life of Danny Greene (Ray Stevenson), a tough Irish-American mobster who becomes a major problem for the Italian Mafia in the city. Greene is a charismatic figure, loved by many and despised by just as many, who had a talent for survival and a fierce determination to protect his turf, allies, and family at all costs.

The story begins with Greene working as a union representative, trying to help the dockworkers get a better deal for their labor. When he clashes with the corrupt union leaders who want a cut from the workers' pay, he decides to take matters into his own hands and builds his own gang, gradually rising in power and influence. At the same time, the local Italian Mafia boss, Ray Ferritto (Vincent D'Onofrio), sees Greene as a threat to his business and starts plotting his downfall.

The plot thickens when Cleveland's police department, represented by detective Joe Manditski (Val Kilmer), tries to bring down the Mafia by offering Greene a deal to help them. However, Greene, as fiercely independent as he is, doesn't want to have any deal with the police and keeps fighting back against Ferritto and his gang, culminating in a series of violent confrontations that lead to a bloody showdown.

Throughout the film, we see Greene's character develop and change, from a small-time operator to a powerful figurehead who could outsmart and survive his enemies. He struggles to balance his personal and professional life, trying to protect his wife and children from danger while knowing that death may be just around the corner for him. Along the way, we meet an impressive cast of characters, including the legendary Christopher Walken, who plays a Jewish loan shark who helps Greene with his business, and Linda Cardellini, who portrays Greene's love interest and confidante.

The film's action sequences are gritty and realistic, with shootouts and car chases that keep the tension high. However, what makes Kill The Irishman stand out is its focus on character development and the relationships between the main players. Danny Greene is not just a stereotypical gangster. He is a complex, multifaceted human being with his own set of strengths and weaknesses. We see him build trust with his crew and enemies alike, strike up unlikely alliances, and ultimately become a hero to his community.

The movie's soundtrack also plays an essential role in setting the scene and creating a nostalgic atmosphere, with 70s classics like Bob Dylan's "It's Alright, Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)" and Van Morrison's "Into the Mystic" serving as a backdrop to the action.

In conclusion, Kill The Irishman is a must-see for fans of the crime genre and those interested in true stories of organized crime. It's a well-crafted film that balances action and drama, with a talented ensemble cast who bring to life the gripping tale of Danny Greene's tumultuous life. With a combination of great acting, a superb soundtrack, and a compelling storyline, Kill The Irishman is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.