Robert De Niro gangster movies have always drawn attention, and now his 2025 mobster film, The Alto Knights, is making headlines again as it climbs into seventh place on HBO Max’s global Top 10, according to FlixPatrol. Although initially a disappointment at the box office, the film’s recent streaming resurgence signals renewed interest from audiences worldwide.
From Critical Disappointment to Streaming Success
The Alto Knights, directed by Barry Levinson, brought together an impressive team, including writer Nicholas Pileggi, known for inspiring the iconic Goodfellas. Robert De Niro was cast in dual leading roles, portraying both infamous crime bosses Frank Costello and Vito Genovese. Despite these star credentials and genre veterans, the film’s original release failed to capture either critical acclaim or commercial triumph.
Set against the backdrop of 1950s New York City, the story deals with Frank Costello’s life after surviving an assassination attempt. Ready to leave the criminal underworld, Costello offers his position at the head of the Luciano crime family to his trusted underboss, Vito Genovese. However, the once close friends find themselves locked in a tense rivalry as questions arise about their true motives. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and shifting power dynamics within the mob hierarchy.
The supporting cast includes Debra Messing as Bobbie Costello, Michael Rispoli, Cosmo Jarvis, and Kathrine Narducci, adding depth to the sprawling crime tale.
Poor Reception and Box Office Results
When The Alto Knights opened in cinemas in March under the Warner Bros. Pictures banner, its expectations were high due to De Niro’s legacy and the creative team’s reputations. Nonetheless, the film received a 40% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes, making it one of the least celebrated entries in De Niro’s filmography. With a production budget of $50 million, it could only manage to gather $9 million during its theatrical run.
This initial failure led many to believe the film would quickly fade from public conversation. However, the movie has found new life in the streaming space, where hits and misses often get second chances with larger, more diverse audiences.
The Cast and Their Impact
Robert De Niro takes on the significant challenge of playing both Vito Genovese and Frank Costello, allowing him to showcase his talent in creating distinct personalities for the two rival bosses. Debra Messing appears as Bobbie Costello, Frank’s steadfast companion, while Michael Rispoli, Cosmo Jarvis, and Kathrine Narducci round out the ensemble, each contributing to the film’s depiction of the era’s criminal intrigue.
What This Streaming Surge Means
The unexpected comeback of The Alto Knights on HBO Max demonstrates the enduring appeal of Robert De Niro gangster movies and the shifting dynamics of film distribution in the digital age. While its theatrical outing was seen as a misstep, the movie’s streaming momentum gives it a chance to reach a larger global audience, potentially reshaping its reputation. The renewed popularity also reflects ongoing fascination with stories of organized crime and complex character studies, anchored by De Niro’s respected performance.
For now, The Alto Knights stands as a striking example of how films, especially those tied to industry legends like De Niro, can find redemption well after their initial debut.
