Donnie Brasco (1997)
US 147m, Colour
Director: Mike Newell; Cast: Johnny Depp, Al Pacino, Michael Madsen, Anne Heche, Bruno Kirby
Donnie Brasco is a well-scripted and intelligent crime drama based on the real-life events of Joseph D. Pistone – a young FBI agent, played by Depp, who infiltrates a New York City crime syndicate during the 1970s. By befriending Lefty, an established hit man, played by Pacino, Brasco finds himself within a place of trust within the mob and quickly establishes himself as a useful associate. This trust, however, comes at a cost to Pistone, who begins to lose himself to his undercover character, which eventually damages his relationship with his wife and family. The film’s strength is its realistic and unapologetic portrayal of the stress and danger of Pistone’s undercover work and the toll on his personal life and psyche (Klaus Ming June 2011).
2 comments on “Donnie Brasco (1997)”
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ming movie reviews 
I remember thinking at the time that it was Johnny Depp’s first 100% adult role.
One thing I liked about the movie was that is was so unromantic about the mob. When the’re trying to bust open parking meters because they need to give money to the higher-ups and there’s no other cash around, that’s a long way from The Godfather.
I reviewed it myself way back when:
http://www.u-town.com/movietown/movies/video97.htm#DBrasco
I didn’t see this film until long after it was released – and after Depp had done a number of adult roles, but I agree in hindsight. I’d forgotten that you had reviewed this film. Thanks for the link. I’ll go check it out.