Critics Pan De Niro's Dual Roles in Underwhelming Mafia Drama 'The Alto Knights'

Barry Levinson's mob film, releasing March 21, faces harsh early reviews for its weak execution, choppy pacing, and reliance on gimmicks despite its star-studded pedigree.

Robert De Niro plays both Frank Costello and Vito Genovese, a decision widely criticized as a distracting gimmick that undermines the film's dramatic weight.
The film explores the rivalry between Costello and Genovese, culminating in a failed assassination attempt and the infamous 1957 Apalachin Mafia meeting.
Critics highlight the screenplay by Nicholas Pileggi, known for 'Goodfellas,' as failing to deliver the depth and energy expected from a Mafia epic.
Heavy use of archival footage and narration detracts from the storytelling, with choppy editing and a lack of emotional engagement noted by reviewers.
Kathrine Narducci's performance as Anna Genovese is praised, though her character's limited screen time leaves critics wanting more.