Nitti: The Enforcer

Nitti: The Enforcer is an outstanding period crime drama which explores the life and times of Frank Nitti, one of the most infamous figures in the annals of American organized crime. Starring Anthony LaPaglia in the titular role and co-starring Vincent Guastaferro, this gripping drama provides a rare glimpse into the world of the Chicago underworld in the Roaring Twenties and the Great Depression era.

LaPaglia's portrayal of the titular character Frank Nitti, the notorious enforcer for Al Capone's criminal empire, is nothing short of exceptional. Often operating behind the scenes and supposedly responsible for maintaining order in the ranks, Nitti was a critical figure in Capone's operation. Whilst most of the audience's focus is captured by Capone himself, Nitti was the man who ensured their illicit operations ran smoothly. The film explores the challenges Nitti faced, his rise to power, and his interactions with other figures of the criminal underworld.

Aside from the compelling chronicle of one man's ascent in the criminal ranks, Nitti: The Enforcer also offers a unique historical perspective on the socio-political landscape of the era. With its setting ranging from the height of prohibition in the 1920s, through to the bitter economic hardships of the 1930s, the film portrays the unique conditions that allowed organized crime to take root and flourish. While it never glamorizes the criminal activities, it does paint a telling picture of the desperation of those times.

Vincent Guastaferro as Jack "Three Finger" White, another key figure in the Capone-Nitti empire, brings a gritty realism to his portrayal. His performance effectively highlights the paradox of their existence, constantly flitting between the everyday familial relations and the blood-soaked dynamics of criminal world.

As you'd expect from a movie of this genre and subject matter, there's intense drama, suspense and action. It offers a mesmerizing blend of historical accuracy and dramatized storytelling, interspersed with intense, emotionally charged sequences that keep viewers on the edge of their seat.

Despite the weighty subject matter, director Michael Switzer manages to keep the story focused on the human elements. The script of the film is a balanced piece of work. It gives just enough of the facts and historical figures to spark interest, while also creating a powerful portrait of a man who was more complex than his notorious reputation suggests. The cinematography exudes an atmosphere of both menace and hope, capturing the stark contrast between the everyday life and dark underworld.

The film's supporting cast is also well-chosen. Each participant, from Nitti's family members to his criminal associates, is wonderfully depicted, providing rich, multifaceted personalities that enhance the film's overall appeal and narrative depth. Their performances blend seamlessly into the storyline, aiding the progression of the plot and adding layers to the central character's development.

Nitti: The Enforcer doesn't shy away from the grim realities of the era it portrays. Scenes of violence and crime are presented with a chilling realism, but the film manages to avoid glorifying these aspects. It maintains a strong focus on the characters and their choices, rather than on their notorious activities.

Above all, Nitti: The Enforcer is a stark, gripping, thought-provoking examination of an individual's evolution within the voracious world of organized crime. In its essence, it is a movie about survival and ambition, about loyalty and betrayal, and about how the boundaries between right, wrong, and necessary can blur when survival is at stake.

Ultimately, Nitti: The Enforcer is a must-watch for anyone with even a remote interest in historical crime dramas. With its strong performances, particularly from Anthony LaPaglia and Vincent Guastaferro, viewers are bound to get hooked to this compelling story of power, crime, and survival. It's a deep dive into the murky waters of history, pulling viewers in with its gripping narrative and leaving them musing over the complexities of human nature and the shadows of the past. Enjoy the suspenseful journey into the world of organized crime and the notable figure that is Frank Nitti through this captivating drama.