6 Crime Movies and Shows Starring Real Former Gangsters

Having delved into the lives of these former mob associates-turned-actors, I can’t help but feel a mix of admiration and trepidation. On one hand, their experiences offer a unique perspective and authenticity that adds depth to their roles. On the other, it’s hard not to wonder how much of their on-screen personas are influenced by their real-life pasts.

Take Anthony “Tony Darrow” Borgese, for instance. His connections to the Bamboo Lounge and the mobsters who frequented it give his portrayal of Sonny Bunz in Goodfellas an air of authenticity that’s hard to replicate. However, his subsequent legal troubles hint at a life that’s not entirely left behind, even after finding success on the silver screen.

And let’s not forget Frank Vincent, who inspired the character Frank Marino in Goodfellas and portrayed Billy Batts in the same film. His real-life ties to Al Capone’s Chicago Outfit add a layer of credibility to his performances, but his continued association with the mob world even after becoming an actor is both fascinating and concerning.

As for Frank Cullotta, his decision to become a government witness and enter the Witness Protection Program was undoubtedly a difficult one. His life story is a testament to the power of choices, as he could have chosen to remain silent and serve time in jail or cooperate with authorities and start a new life.

In a lighter vein, I can’t help but chuckle at the irony that these actors, who played characters steeped in secrecy and omerta, ended up having their own real-life stories unveiled for all to see. It seems that, even in the world of organized crime, some secrets are too big to keep forever!

One effective approach to rephrase this passage in a natural and easy-to-understand manner is as follows:

Producers of crime films and series are frequently criticized for fabricating events excessively. To maintain authenticity, it’s logical to hire former criminals as actors. Having someone who has lived a criminal lifestyle can help identify inaccuracies and deliver more genuine performances. This also makes for an inspiring backstory, demonstrating that people can transform their lives and make better choices.

This rephrased version maintains the original meaning while using simpler sentence structures and clearer language.

While it’s not common, I’ve noticed that ex-convicts don’t often find roles in movies or TV shows for several reasons. Firstly, many organized crime groups have strict rules against their current or former associates appearing in any medium that could potentially reveal the inner workings of their criminal operations. Secondly, criminals are generally perceived with apprehension and can be difficult to manage due to their unpredictable nature. Directors aren’t keen on putting themselves in precarious situations, like being threatened over a simple request for multiple retakes. However, there have been brave filmmakers and showrunners who’ve decided to take a risk, and it has often resulted in successful portrayals.

6
‘Reservoir Dogs’ (1992)

Former Gangster: Edward Bunker

In Quentin Tarantino’s debut Hollywood film, a group of six thieves are tasked with stealing precious diamonds, but end up being caught off guard by the police in a surprise attack. The question arises: Was someone playing them? Tensions escalate, and gunfire ensues, aimed at one another.

In my review as a movie critic, let me share that I was captivated by the portrayal of one of the enigmatic Reservoir Dogs characters, Mr. Blue. Interestingly enough, this role was brought to life by Edward Bunker, an intriguing figure who transitioned from a real-life convict to a successful author and actor. In this film, he skillfully portrayed a character that is somewhat reticent, a stark contrast to the rest of the crew. Mr. Blue’s dialogue is limited, but his question in the diner at the beginning of the movie – “Do you know what these waitresses make?” – leaves a lasting impact on the audience, setting the stage for the intrigue that unfolds throughout the story.

Bunker Is so Legendary That a Movie Character Was Based on Him

Similar to many individuals who would later commit crimes, Bunker had a troubled start in life. At the tender age of five, he started going missing from home. By the time he was fourteen, he had already earned his first criminal conviction. This pattern of arrest, parole, and imprisonment persisted until 1975, when he was convicted for offenses such as drug dealing, bank robbery, extortion, armed robbery, and forgery. Following his release from prison in 1975, Bunker decided to change his path and dedicated himself to a career in writing and acting. Since then, he has published seven books and appeared in more than 20 films.

In the 1995 heist movie “Heat,” the character Nate, played by Jon Voight, who dealt in fenced stolen goods, was modeled after an individual named Bunker. This individual, once a criminal himself, contributed his expertise to the film as a consultant.

5
‘The Sopranos’ (1999 – 2007)

Former Gangsters: Tony Sirico and Mike Squicciarini

The series “The Sopranos” delves into the contemporary world of organized crime, focusing on the fictional DiMeo clan of New Jersey, headed by Tony Soprano (James Gandolfini). These mobsters engage in violence, conduct business dealings, and maintain their households, all while avoiding becoming victims themselves.

In the series, it’s comedian Tony Sirico who brings humor to the role of a mobster named Paulie. Former convict Mike Squicciarin, another actor, makes an appearance in one episode as a character named Frank “Big Frank” Cippolina. Notably, his character nearly gets into a fight with Paulie in the show.

Squicciarini Slipped Back Into Organized Crime, but Sirico Remained a Standup Guy

Mike Squicciarini, who once worked as a debt collector for the DeCavalcante family, harbored aspirations of achieving greatness in acting and pursued this dream by trying out for roles on the popular show “The Sopranos,” as he shared with the New York Observer.

I’m asking for only one year on that program. Ideally, I’d like around nine or ten episodes to make me a well-known figure across households. However, if things don’t go as planned, I have something to rely on. I’ve got my mask and weapon ready at home.

In my humble opinion as a movie critic, one appearance on HBO’s acclaimed series didn’t cement his stardom. As promised, he returned to the dark world of organized crime. Tragically, he met his end in 2001, and posthumously, he was linked to a brutal gangland murder. An intriguing tidbit: it was a witness who recognized him from a clip on “The Sopranos” that exposed this connection.

Tony Sirico, much like his character Paulie, was a genuine gangster in real life too. In his younger years, he was involved in a shooting over a girl and ended up being arrested 28 times while working as an associate of the Colombo family, under infamous boss Carmine “Junior” Persico, as reported by Cosa Nostra News. It’s worth noting that Sirico’s street name was also “Junior.

In 1971, he was ultimately sentenced to four years for crimes involving extortion and weapons possession. However, it was during this time that his fascination with Hollywood began, as an acting troupe of former inmates performed at his prison. Upon his release, he channeled his energy and determination, which led to the rest of his journey unfolding smoothly.

4
‘Scarface’ (1932)

Former Gangster: George Raft

Drawing inspiration from Al Capone’s life story, the original Scarface film follows the path of Italian gangster Antonio “Tony” Camonte (Paul Muni), who ruthlessly takes over Chicago’s criminal circles. It’s no surprise that his rise to power generates many adversaries. Notably, George Raft, portraying Tony’s deadly, toothpick-wielding, coin-tossing associate Guino “Little Boy” Rinaldo, previously worked as the chauffeur and trusted aide of the famous New York City Irish mobster Owney Madden.

Raft’s Mob Connections Saved Other Iconic Actors

During Hollywood’s golden era, some prominent actors could have met a violent end at the hands of the mafia, but luckily for them, Raft stepped in as a peacemaker. As detailed in his autobiography, “Cagney on Cagney”, the iconic actor himself was targeted by the mob while serving as president of the Screen Actors Guild. Fortunately, Raft managed to halt the assassination attempt. Additionally, it’s said that Raft saved another famous actor, Gary Cooper, whose romantic adventures had upset certain individuals in the mafia due to their jealousy over his affections.

Throughout the rest of his professional life, Raft struggled to disassociate himself from the mafia association. However, he consistently stood up for his own innocence.

Though I’ve never been imprisoned, never touched alcohol, have never harmed anyone, and even gave away all my wealth, why do people still see me in such a negative light?

Regardless of any negative perceptions, Raft is destined to be celebrated for his many exceptional acting roles. Following his performance in “Scarface”, don’t miss his appearances in “Some Like it Hot” and “They Drive by Night”.

3
‘The Godfather’ (1972)

Former Gangsters: Alex Rocco, Lenny Montana, James Caan, Gianni Russo

For over half a century since its initial release, “The Godfather” continues to shine as the ultimate masterpiece in the genre of mob films. The ascension of Michael Corleone from mere family member to ruler of the underworld serves as the central narrative, yet additional characters skillfully grab the audience’s focus. Remarkably, some of the performers portraying these characters had real-life connections with organized crime.

James Caan, who played Sonny Corleone, was known for his associations with the mob; Lenny Montana, portraying Luca Brassi, served as muscle for the Colombo crime family; Gianni Russo, acting as Carlo Rizzi, was an associate of Frank Costello; and Alex Rocco, in his role as Moe Greene, had links to Whitey Bulger’s Winter Hill Gang. In simpler terms, these actors were known for their roles that depicted real-life figures with ties to organized crime groups.

Rocco’s Real Life Was as Exciting as Fiction

Since he can recall, Alex Rocco had dreams of being a gangster, with acting never crossing his mind. In 1961, he was implicated in the murder of Bernard “Bernie” McLaughlin, a notorious Irish gang leader from Boston’s Charlestown neighborhood. Witnesses claimed that Rocco served as the getaway driver. Fortunately, he was found not guilty. Later, his wife narrowly escaped an explosion from a bomb placed in a car. This event prompted him to leave, but somehow, Francis Ford Coppola managed to draw him back into the acting world.

Regarding Montana, he was chosen by Francis Ford Coppola while scouting through the film set’s crowd. Notably, during the making of The Godfather, organized crime figures played a significant role. Montana was present as a bodyguard for one of the young gangsters. Gray Frederickson, an associate producer, recalls him fondly. He shared with Vanity Fair:

Montana often shared tales about his past, such as his history as a pyromaniac. He devised unusual methods for setting fires, like attaching a tampon soaked in kerosene to a mouse’s tail and lighting it, then letting the terrified mouse scurry through a building. Another method he used was placing a candle before a cuckoo clock, so when the cuckoo popped out, the candle would topple over and ignite a fire.

After his work on The Godfather, Montana would go on to star in numerous other movies.

In his case, Caan wasn’t personally involved in murder but rather held a notable association with the Colombo crime family. There are rumors that he sought approval from the Don prior to appearing in “The Godfather.” Moreover, it’s worth mentioning that Andy Mush, a member of the Colombo crime family, served as the godfather for Caan’s son. Intriguingly, Gianni Russo, who played Carlo Rizzo and indirectly led to the demise of Caan’s Sonny in “The Godfather,” has connections with Frank Costello. This connection was disclosed in 2020, when he admitted to being active within organized crime from as early as the age of 13.

2
‘Casino’ (1995)

Former Gangster: Frank Cullotta

In the 1970s, the narrative of Casino unfolds in the vibrant city of Las Vegas. The protagonist, Sam “Ace” Rothstein, portrayed by Robert De Niro, is a cunning low-level mobster who is entrusted by his superiors to manage the Tangiers Casino. Initially, everything runs smoothly; however, complications arise due to Nicky Santoro, an unpredictable associate, and Ginger, Ace’s extravagant wife, who both pose potential threats to the empire he’s constructing.

Frank Cullotta, portrayed as a hitman in the film, was once part of Al Capone’s Chicago crime syndicate, even though he joined after Al Capone had ceased to lead it. Additionally, Cullotta served as the inspiration for the character Frank Marino, played by Frank Vincent, in Martin Scorsese’s movie.

Cullotta Chose to “Sing”

Omerta,” or the rule “Thou shall not betray,” is a significant code followed by the Cosa Nostra. However, contrary to this principle, Sammy “The Bull” Cullotta opted to reveal all when faced with the choice between serving time in prison or enjoying margaritas in a hidden sanctuary for the remainder of his life. Following his arrest in 1982, he decided to cooperate with the government and join the United States Federal Witness Protection Program. In his defense, Cullotta had previously served jail sentences, and he chose not to endure torture again. Tragically, he passed away from COVID-19 instead of meeting a violent end.

1
‘Goodfellas’ (1990)

Former Gangster: Anthony “Tony Darrow” Borgese

The film “Goodfellas” recounts the extraordinary life of Henry Hill, a non-Italian American who rose through the ranks to become a significant figure in the Lucchese crime family. Similar to Cullotta, Hill, played by Ray Liotta, eventually turned informant. Another memorable character from the movie is Sonny Bunz, the owner of the Bamboo Lounge, who was portrayed by Anthony “Tony Darrow” Borgese, a former associate of the mafia.

“A Good Friend of Ours”

Borgese had a personal connection to the Bamboo Lounge because Paul Vario Sr., who was known as a mobster, secured him a job as a singer there. The lounge was a popular hangout for gangsters, and at a later point, Borgese would confess that he was acquainted with everyone. He shared this in an interview with the New York Post.

“I knew John Gotti. I knew all those guys from the neighborhood. They always treated me well.”

Regrettably, despite my successful acting journey that included brief stints in movies like “Bullets over Broadway” and TV shows such as “The Sopranos”, I found it challenging to shake off my past. In 2011, I faced the consequences of my actions when I pleaded guilty to extortion charges linked to a violent debt collection incident associated with the Gambino family. As reported by The Daily Mail, I was instrumental in leading Gambino enforcers towards their targets.

Tony introduces them to the location. He leads them there, and upon arriving at the house, a man opens the door, only for them to brutally assault him.

Interestingly, Borgese only received a six-month house arrest sentence.

2025-01-04 03:03

6 ‘Reservoir Dogs’ (1992)