At 81 years old, Robert De Niro remains a prominent figure in cinema, having enriched his filmography with eight new feature films over the past five years. Among these, his reunion with renowned director Martin Scorsese in Killers of the Flower Moon stands out, marking a significant collaboration with Leonardo DiCaprio, another major talent in Scorsese's oeuvre. De Niro's latest role in The Alto Knights, directed by Barry Levinson, showcases his versatility as he portrays two gangsters, Vito Genovese and Frank Costello.
This evening, April 18, 2025, audiences can catch De Niro in the iconic role of Al Capone in the classic film Les Incorruptibles, directed by Brian De Palma. The film, which originally premiered in 1987, tells the gripping true story of Eliot Ness, the lawman who took on the notorious mobster during the Prohibition era. The film features a stellar cast including Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, and Andy Garcia, alongside De Niro.
In Les Incorruptibles, Sean Connery's portrayal of Jim Malone earned him both a Golden Globe and the only Oscar of his illustrious career, highlighting the film's critical acclaim. Interestingly, the role of Al Capone was initially offered to Bob Hoskins, who was replaced by De Niro when he became available. Hoskins, who was initially favored by the producers, received a compensation of $200,000 for the change in casting.
Brian De Palma, who began his career alongside De Niro in the late 1960s, had always envisioned De Niro for the role of Capone. De Palma had previously cast De Niro in his early films, including Greetings, The Wedding Party, and Hi, Mom!. However, during the casting process for Les Incorruptibles, De Niro was busy with theater work and hesitant to take on the role. To secure his options, De Palma reached out to Hoskins, who later recounted in a 1998 interview that De Palma had expressed his desire for De Niro to play Capone.
Despite initially agreeing to consider the role, Hoskins learned through the media that De Niro would indeed take on the character. In a humorous twist, he later received a check for $200,000 from De Palma with a note thanking him for his time, leading him to joke that he would be available for future projects.
The film Les Incorruptibles is more than just a crime drama; it is a depiction of the fierce battle between law enforcement and organized crime in 1930s Chicago. Eliot Ness, portrayed by Kevin Costner, leads a team of dedicated officers determined to bring down Capone, who ruled the streets with an iron fist. The film is based on the true events of Ness's life, as he formed a group of skilled agents, dubbed the 'Incorruptibles', to combat Capone's empire.
Ness's journey began at the young age of 26, and he quickly became a pivotal figure in the fight against organized crime. His efforts, chronicled in the book The Untouchables, co-written with Oscar Fraley, provided the foundation for De Palma's film. The book recounts Ness's challenges, including his initial failures against Capone's corrupt influence within the police force.
As audiences prepare to revisit this classic film, it’s worth noting the cultural impact Les Incorruptibles has had over the years. It has not only entertained viewers but also provided a dramatic interpretation of a significant chapter in American history, illustrating the lengths to which law enforcement went to restore order during a tumultuous time.
Tonight’s broadcast on France 5 at 9:05 PM promises to be a nostalgic reminder of the film's legacy. With its powerful performances and gripping narrative, Les Incorruptibles remains a cornerstone of American cinema, showcasing the battle between good and evil in a society grappling with corruption.
As the film airs, viewers can expect to be drawn into the world of Eliot Ness and Al Capone, witnessing the intricate dance of law and crime that defined an era. The film's blend of historical accuracy and cinematic flair continues to resonate with audiences, making it a must-see for both new viewers and longtime fans.
In addition to the film, the evening's programming includes a documentary titled Baby Cages, which explores a U.S.-run re-education camp for young German prisoners of war in France after World War II. This juxtaposition of themes—crime and redemption—highlights the complexities of human behavior and the societal challenges that persist across generations.
Moreover, the evening also pays tribute to Letizia Battaglia, a fearless photographer who documented the fight against the Mafia from the 1970s to the 1990s. Her work serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle against organized crime, echoing the themes presented in Les Incorruptibles.
As viewers settle in for an evening of compelling storytelling, the legacy of Robert De Niro as Al Capone and the real-life heroics of Eliot Ness will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. The film not only entertains but also invites reflection on the moral dilemmas faced by those who stand against corruption and injustice.
Tonight, as Les Incorruptibles lights up screens, it serves as a reminder of the enduring battle between law enforcement and organized crime, a narrative that continues to unfold in various forms across the globe.
