Gangster movie lovers are in for a treat as one of the genre’s best is now streaming on Amazon Prime. Donnie Brasco is a 1997 gangster epic starring Al Pacino and Johnny Depp. The crime drama was directed by Mike Newell and written by Paul Attanasio. It is based on the 1988 non-fiction book Donnie Brasco: My Undercover Life in the Mafia by Joseph D. Pistone and Richard Woodley. Michael Madsen, Bruno Kirby, James Russo, and Anne Heche also feature in supporting roles. The film has been described as the “best ever gangster movie” by fans, and some say it is even better than The Godfather.
The film’s synopsis reads: “Joseph Pistone (Depp) is an FBI agent who has infiltrated one of the major New York Mafia families and is living under the name Donnie Brasco. He develops a relationship with mob hit man Benjamin Lefty Ruggiero (Pacino) in order to get deeper under cover, but ends up developing a real friendship with the Mafioso. As their relationship develops, Pistone must decide whether or not to complete his job, knowing that it will lead to the murder of his new friend.”
The film received critical acclaim upon its release, showcasing it as a strong contender in the gangster genre. It has received a strong score of 88% from the critics of Rotten Tomatoes. Their consensus states: “A stark, nuanced portrait of life in organised crime, bolstered by strong performances from Al Pacino and Johnny Depp.”
One critic said: “This is Depp’s coming-of-age role, and he’s terrific. Pacino, who’s shown more flash than substance recently, reminds us how great he can be when he loses himself inside a character.”
Another critic wrote in their review: “Pacino and Depp are a match made in acting heaven, riffing off each other with astonishing subtlety and wit.”
One fan said: “Donnie Brasco, maybe the most under appreciated gangster film ever made. Pacino and Depp were an absolute powerhouse duo in this riveting soul filled two hours of clever cinematic mobster brilliance. Pacino was obviously great in The Godfather triology but my taste gravitates to this and Carlito’s Way, as my favorite gangster performances from the all time legend. Don’t let this one fly over your head. One of my all time favorites, fuhhget about it.”
An audience member said: “After watching the film again, I realised just how rememberable of a performance Johnny Depp really put on. Combine that with Al Pacino and a very suspenseful and intriguing story and you have got a great mobster movie that hangs with the best of them.”
“Johnny Depp’s second best performance after Ed Wood, but this may be Pacino’s best work. He brings pathos to the table unlike in any other gangster film,” added a viewer in their review.
Donnie Brasco is available to stream on Amazon Prime right now.