The Alto Knights set for March 21, 2025 release

The Alto Knights, directed by Barry Levinson and featuring Robert De Niro in dual roles as mob bosses Frank Costello and Vito Genovese, is set in 1950s New York and explores their transformation from best friends to fierce rivals amidst a power struggle that shakes organized crime. The film, based on historical events and written by Nicholas Pileggi, emphasizes the themes of betrayal and the fragility of alliances within the mafia world. De Niro's performances are highlighted as a significant element, showcasing the contrasting personalities of Costello, the calculated 'gentleman gangster,' and Genovese, the brutal enforcer. Critics note that while the film pays homage to classic gangster cinema, it also wrestles with clichés inherent in the genre. The Alto Knights is scheduled for theatrical release on March 21, 2025, and aims to recapture the essence of mob dramas from the past. Early reviews commend the film's attention to historical detail and De Niro's compelling dual portrayal.