Donnie Brasco

Donnie Brasco

Year: 1997

Runtime: 127 min

Language: English

Director: Mike Newell

DramaThrillerCrime

Undercover FBI agent Joseph Pistone assumes the identity of Donnie Brasco to infiltrate the Mafia. He develops a close, unexpected friendship with Benjamin "Lefty" Ruggiero, a low-level mob associate. As Donnie becomes increasingly embedded in Lefty's life, his loyalty is tested, and he must balance his duty to the FBI with the complicated bonds he's formed, facing serious repercussions for his double life.

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Timeline & Setting – Donnie Brasco (1997)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Donnie Brasco (1997). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1970s

The events of the movie occur during the late 1970s, a time when organized crime was pervasive in America. This era saw significant mafia activity, and law enforcement was increasingly focused on infiltrating and dismantling these powerful criminal organizations.

Location

Brooklyn, Florida

The movie takes place primarily in Brooklyn, a bustling urban area known for its diverse population and historical significance related to organized crime. Florida serves as a contrasting backdrop, representing a location for illicit operations such as the planned casino, reflecting the mafia's pursuit of wealth and power.

🏙️ City 🌴 Resort

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:10

Main Characters – Donnie Brasco (1997)

Meet the key characters of Donnie Brasco (1997), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Joseph Pistone (Donnie Brasco)

Joseph Pistone, alias Donnie Brasco, is an undercover FBI agent who immerses himself in the mafia to gather valuable intelligence. His strong determination is overshadowed by the moral dilemmas he faces as he forms deep connections with the criminals he's tasked to infiltrate. As the stakes rise, he must confront the emotional cost of his mission.

🔍 FBI 🎭 Deception 💔 Sacrifice

Lefty Ruggiero

Lefty Ruggiero is a small-time mobster with a big heart, who becomes a father figure to Joseph. He is depicted as loyal yet misguided, often gambling away what little he has while yearning for the respect and love that seems to elude him. Lefty's vulnerability and desperation make his friendship with Joseph all the more poignant.

💼 Mobster 👨‍👦 Father Figure 🎲 Gambler

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:10

Major Themes – Donnie Brasco (1997)

Explore the central themes of Donnie Brasco (1997), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎭 Betrayal

Betrayal is a central theme in 'Donnie Brasco,' as Joseph Pistone must navigate a world built on deception. His undercover work inherently involves betraying the trust of those who come to see him as a friend, particularly Lefty, which complicates his own morals and loyalties. The consequences of these betrayals culminate in tragedy for both Joseph and those he deceives.

💔 Sacrifice

The theme of sacrifice permeates the film, illustrated by Joseph's abandonment of his family life and personal happiness for his mission. His deepening involvement in the mafia leads to a breakdown of his marriage, showcasing the heavy toll that undercover work exacts on his personal relationships and emotional well-being.

⚖️ Morality

Morality is a contentious theme as Joseph grapples with his dual identity as both an FBI agent and a trusted member of the mafia. His growing friendship with Lefty complicates his moral compass, forcing him to choose between loyalty to his job and the bonds he forms within the criminal world.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:10

Unlock the Full Story of Donnie Brasco

Don't stop at just watching — explore Donnie Brasco in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Donnie Brasco is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Donnie Brasco Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Donnie Brasco, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Donnie Brasco Summary

Donnie Brasco Timeline

Track the full timeline of Donnie Brasco with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Donnie Brasco Timeline

More About Donnie Brasco

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Donnie Brasco: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Donnie Brasco

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