The Alto Knights is based on the true story of a violent power struggle during the 1950s between two notorious Italian-American mob bosses, Frank Costello and Vito Genovese. Their relationship evolved from friendship to bitter rivalry.
Frank Costello and Vito Genovese began their criminal careers as associates of Charlie "Lucky" Luciano in the 1920s. They rose through the ranks of the Luciano crime family, with Genovese becoming underboss and Costello serving as consigliere.
In 1936, after Luciano's imprisonment, Genovese briefly became the head of the crime family. However, when Genovese fled to Italy in 1937 to avoid murder charges, Luciano appointed Costello as the new leader. Costello maintained this position even after Genovese's return in 1945, which sowed the seeds of their conflict.
Their rivalry intensified in the 1950s, primarily due to their differing approaches to organized crime. Costello favored diplomatic relations with politicians and had a more strategic approach. Genovese preferred intimidation and violence.
The conflict reached its peak on May 2, 1957, when Genovese ordered an assassination attempt on Costello. Vincent Gigante, Genovese's ally, carried out the attack, but Costello survived with only a scalp wound. Following the assassination attempt, Costello's influence in the Mafia waned, leading to his eventual retirement.
Genovese's triumph was short-lived. He faced legal troubles and was eventually sentenced to 15 years in federal prison in 1959 for heroin trafficking. Both Costello and Genovese died of heart attacks in the late 1960s and early 1970s, respectively.
The feud between Costello and Genovese marked a significant turning point in the history of organized crime in America, ultimately contributing to the decline of the Mafia's power and influence.
The biographical crime drama The Alto Knights, directed by Barry Levinson and written by Nicholas Pileggi, portrays this dangerous era of organized crime, showcasing the ruthlessness and cunning that defined both Genovese and Costello. Robert De Niro plays the dual role of both mob bosses, offering a unique perspective on their personalities and the events that shaped their lives.
The Alto Knights debuts in theaters this Friday, March 21, 2025.