Watch Romanzo Criminale

Romanzo Criminale is a riveting film that tells the story of a group of young criminals in Rome in the 1970s, as they make their way to the top of the city's criminal underworld. Directed by Michele Placido, the movie is based on the novel of the same name by Giancarlo De Cataldo. The film opens with the introduction of Ice (played by Kim Rossi Stuart), the leader of a trio of young criminals who are just beginning to make a name for themselves in the Roman underworld. Along with his partners, Lebanese (played by Pierfrancesco Favino) and Dandi (played by Claudio Santamaria), Ice starts taking on bigger and more dangerous jobs, eventually catching the attention of the city's most notorious crime boss, Terrible (played by Toni Servillo).

From there, the movie follows the rise of the gang as they become entangled in a complex web of alliances, betrayals, and rivalries with other criminal organizations. At the center of it all is a plot to kidnap the daughter of a wealthy businessman, which sets off a chain of events that will change the gang's lives forever.

The film is surprisingly nuanced in its portrayal of the characters and their relationships to each other. Ice, Lebanese, and Dandi are not simply one-dimensional thugs, but complex individuals with their own unique motivations and desires. Ice, in particular, is fascinating to watch as he struggles to reconcile his ambitions with his growing love for a beautiful young woman named Roberta (played by Anna Mouglalis).

The film is also notable for its gritty, realistic portrayal of Rome in the 1970s. The city is depicted as a place of decay and corruption, with poverty and violence lurking around every corner. The cinematography and production design are top-notch, making the viewer feel as though they are right there in the middle of it all.

Overall, Romanzo Criminale is a gripping film that offers a fresh perspective on the gangster genre. Rather than focusing solely on the violence and brutality of criminal life, the movie delves deep into the complex psychology of its characters, exploring the relationships, motivations, and desires that drive them. With strong performances from its talented cast and expert direction from Placido, Romanzo Criminale is a must-see for fans of crime dramas.