just watched
A Bronx Tale -
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0106489/reference
Directed by (and also starring) Robert DeNiro, back when he could still act parts written for normal human beings.
Pretty solid film, about growing up, love, family, responsibility, and life choices. All wrapped up in a glorious production that reminds me of Little Shop Of Horrors (down to the barbershop quartet). The lead is played by Lillo Brancato (who?) and the main character is Chaz Palminteri, who overdoes it at times, but generally carries the film pretty darn well.
It's weird how i have never noticed this film. Although it's centered around the 1950s american mafia, it's not in the same line as Goodfellas, painting the mobsters as more humane and realistic. Don't expect badass gunfights or though-guy action, this film focuses more on normal people.
interesting bit of trivia copypasta from IMDb
"The story, written by
Chazz Palminteri, is adapted from his autobiographical one-man play. His real name is Calogero Lorenzo Palminteri. Several studios approached him to purchase the film rights, with at least one offering $1 million, but Palminteri refused to sell them unless he could write the screenplay and play the role of Sonny. None of the studios agreed as they wanted to hire another actor. Then
Robert De Niro offered to go into a 50/50 partnership with all of Palminteri's conditions met as long as De Niro could direct and play Lorenzo. Palminteri agreed and their contract was sealed on a handshake."
Good film, would recommend.
7.5/10