Movie Review Jackie K Cooper
"Rob the Mob" (Millenium)
"Rob the Mob" is a movie that has to be seen to be believed. It is based on the true story of two naive young people who think their pathway to success lies in robbing from Mafia "social clubs." Michael Pitt and Nina Arianda play the young couple and their acting skills plus the uniqueness of this story make this a movie not to be missed. Audiences may have to search it out as it is playing on limited screens, but the treasure of this adventure in moviemaking is well worth the effort.
Tommy and Rosie (Pitt and Arianda) are a young couple in love. He is fascinated by the John Gotti trial and discovers one day while observing in the courtroom, that certain "social clubs" run by the Mafia are totally unguarded. They are places where guns are not allowed. Plus if they are robbed they don't report the events to the police for after all they are the Mafia.
It doesn't take a genius, and Tommy is no genius, to determine they should be ripe for the picking. The problem is that Tommy and his accomplice Rosie never think of other consequences. They brazenly rob the clubs and even flaunt their identities. Even after they steal something the Mafia wants to protect at all costs, they still are open with their identities.
Pitt and Arianda throw themselves into the portrayal of this modern day "Bonnie and Clyde." They are letter perfect in their roles. Pitt has been on the scene a while now and has been waiting for the right role to propel him into the big time. This is it. Arianda is a newcomer to Hollywood after an award winning career on Broadway. She is fascinating as Rosie and makes a major impression with her talent.
These two young actors also bring out the best in a large supporting cast which includes Griffin Dunne, Ray Romano, Cathy Moriarty and Andy Garcia. All of these performers have virtually cameo parts but they are integral to the overall effect of the film.
The film is rated R for profanity and violence.
The story told in the movie is so over the top that it would not be believable if it were not stated to be based on a true story. It proves again the adage that truth is stranger than fiction. It also proves that superb talent and a unique story make for grand entertainment.
Hunt this movie down and settle in for a wonderful viewing experience. They rarely make movies this distinctive so grab a view while you can.
I scored "Rob the Mob" a stolen 7 out of 10.
Jackie K Cooper
www.jackiekcooper.com