Watch The Death Collector

The Death Collector is a 1976 crime movie directed by Ralph De Vito and starring Joe Cortese, Lou Criscuolo, and Joe Pesci. The film takes place in Brooklyn, New York, during the 1970s and is based on a true story. The story follows a young neighborhood kid, Joe (Cortese), who becomes an apprentice to local loan shark and violent mob collector, Vic (Criscuolo). Joe is taken under Vic's wing after he saves him from being beaten up by some local thugs. The two have a twisted relationship that involves violence and eventual betrayal.

The movie is full of gritty, crude, and violent scenes that depict the criminal underworld of New York City during that period. The film's realism is due in part to the actors' authentic Brooklyn accents and the use of real-life locations throughout the city. The dialogue is raw and raw and explicitly shows the brutality and degradation that exists within the criminal ranks.

Joe's character is central to the film, and we see him transform from a seemingly innocent kid to a ruthless enforcer. He starts off as an assistant to Vic, collecting debts from those who owe money to the mob. He quickly learns that using force is the only way to get results. The further he delves into the criminal world, the more his violent tendencies come to the surface. His actions lead to a downward spiral of events that culminate in a shocking finale.

The characters in this film are complex and multi-dimensional, capturing the essence of the Brooklyn underworld. Lou Criscuolo's portrayal of the seasoned mobster, Vic, is a standout performance. His cold, manipulative demeanor that commands respect is balanced by occasional moments of vulnerability that hint at deeper emotions. Joe Pesci, in an early role, gives a solid performance as a fellow mobster, "Frankie." Frankie is a relatively minor character, but Pesci infuses him with an energy and humor that makes him stand out.

The Death Collector is a character-driven movie, and we get to know each one intimately. We see their motivations and the reasons behind their actions. We are provided with glimpses of their humanity, their weaknesses and their strengths, which makes them feel real and relatable.

The film's soundtrack is also noteworthy, featuring songs such as "Walk on By," by Isaac Hayes and "I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)," by the Four Tops. The music adds to the overall atmosphere of the film, providing a backdrop that sets the mood for each scene.

The Death Collector is a well-crafted film that captures the grit and violence of the criminal underworld. It is reminiscent of other classics of the genre such as The Godfather and Goodfellas, but with a unique perspective that focuses on the smaller players in the criminal hierarchy. The movie examines the relationships between the members of this close-knit community, and the desperation that comes with living life on the fringes of society. Ultimately, it tells a gripping story of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption.

In conclusion, The Death Collector is a must-see for fans of the crime genre. It is a movie that does not shy away from showing the harsh reality of the criminal world and its impact on those who live in it. It is a film that is both brutal and nuanced, with complex characters and a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The film's performances, dialogue, and soundtrack work together to create a world that feels authentic and engaging. If you're looking for a crime movie that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, The Death Collector is an excellent choice.

The Death Collector is a 1976 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.