Wise Guys

Wise Guys

Year: 1986

Runtime: 100 min

Language: English

Director: Brian De Palma

ComedyCrime

During the 1950s in New York City, ambitious gangster Vito Genovese plots to overthrow the established crime boss, Frank Costello. Their escalating conflict sparks a dangerous and darkly humorous struggle for dominance over the city’s criminal underworld, filled with betrayal, violence, and shifting alliances. The power struggle tests loyalties and leads to unforeseen consequences for everyone involved.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Wise Guys (1986)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Wise Guys (1986). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The story unfolds in a contemporary setting during the 1980s, capturing the essence of mob culture in America. This era is marked by the rivalry between crime families and the societal shifts that see traditional roles being challenged. The film's events reflect the comedic yet dangerous undertones of a lifestyle that oscillates between ambition and absurdity.

Location

Newark, New Jersey, Atlantic City, Meadowlands Racetrack

Newark, New Jersey, serves as the primary backdrop for the film, representing the gritty underbelly of organized crime. Atlantic City, known for its vibrant casinos and nightlife, showcases the contrast between the mundane life of two low-level mobsters and the allure of high-stakes gambling. The Meadowlands Racetrack plays a crucial role in the plot, highlighting the intersection of crime and betting in the characters' lives.

🏙️ City 🎰 Casino 🐎 Racing

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:08

Main Characters – Wise Guys (1986)

Meet the key characters of Wise Guys (1986), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Harry Valentini (Danny DeVito)

Harry Valentini is a hapless yet ambitious member of the Newark Mafia, constantly seeking a way to rise above his lowly status. His charm and determination highlight his desire for a better life, driving him to make reckless decisions in pursuit of his dreams. Despite facing danger, Harry's quick wit often brings humor to tense situations.

👤 Protagonist 🍕 Dreamer 🎭 Comedic

Moe Dickstein (Joe Piscopo)

Moe Dickstein is Harry's loyal friend and neighbor, often torn between loyalty to his friend and fear of their criminal boss. His character brings a blend of humor and vulnerability, embodying the struggles faced by those stuck in a life of mediocrity. Moe's journey from despair to unexpected heroism is a key aspect of the story.

👤 Sidekick 🎭 Comedic 🤝 Loyal

Anthony Castelo (Dan Hedaya)

Anthony Castelo is the ruthless mob boss who exerts control over Harry and Moe, embodying the threat that looms over their lives. His intimidating presence and expectations drive the plot, serving as a constant reminder of the dangers that come with their criminal lifestyle. Castelo's character adds tension and illustrates the risks of being involved in organized crime.

👤 Antagonist 🔫 Ruthless ⚖️ Crime Boss

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:08

Major Themes – Wise Guys (1986)

Explore the central themes of Wise Guys (1986), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🍔 Dreams

The central theme revolves around the pursuit of dreams, as Harry and Moe aspire to open the world's first Jewish-Italian delicatessen. Their journey through crime and chaos underscores the lengths individuals will go to achieve their goals, despite overwhelming obstacles and the constant threat of violence. Ultimately, it reflects on the power of friendship and resilience in the face of adversity.

⚖️ Crime & Morality

The film explores the complexities of crime and morality, illustrating the thin line characters tread between legality and illegality. Harry and Moe's comedic misadventures reveal the absurdities of their criminal undertakings, prompting reflections on loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of their actions. This comedic lens adds depth to the portrayal of their moral dilemmas.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:08

Unlock the Full Story of Wise Guys

Don't stop at just watching — explore Wise Guys 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 Wise Guys is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Wise Guys Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Wise Guys, 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.

Wise Guys Summary

Wise Guys Timeline

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

Wise Guys Timeline

More About Wise Guys

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Wise Guys: 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 Wise Guys

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