Lansky

Movie Trailer

Release Date
June 25, 2021

Genre
Crime, Drama, Biography

Cast & Crew

• Harvey Keitel as Meyer Lansky
• Sam Worthington as David Stone
• John Magaro as Young Meyer Lansky
• Minka Kelly as Maureen
• David James Elliott as Frank Rivers
• AnnaSophia Robb as Anne Lansky

Director
Eytan Rockaway

Other Movies Director is Known For

• The Abandoned (2015)

Producer
Robert Ogden Barnum, Jeff Hoffman, Lee Broda, Eric Binns

Writer
Eytan Rockaway (screenplay), Robert Rockaway (based on his interviews with Meyer Lansky)

Budget
Estimated $5-10 million

Production Company
Vertical Entertainment, Above the Clouds Media Group

Running Time
119 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R (for language, violence, and some sexual content)

Content Advisory

• Strong language
• Violence
• Depictions of crime
• Mature themes

Movie Story
“Lansky” is a biographical crime drama that delves into the life of Meyer Lansky, one of the most infamous figures in American organized crime. The film alternates between Lansky’s later years, where he is portrayed by Harvey Keitel, and flashbacks to his younger days, where John Magaro plays the younger Lansky.

The story is framed around an interview between the aging Lansky and David Stone (Sam Worthington), a down-on-his-luck writer who is drawn into Lansky’s world as he attempts to uncover the truth about Lansky’s mysterious, hidden fortune. As Lansky recounts his rise to power in the world of organized crime, he reflects on his life, from his early days as a poor Jewish immigrant to becoming a key figure in the development of the National Crime Syndicate and the casino empire in Las Vegas.

The film explores Lansky’s relationships with fellow mobsters like Bugsy Siegel and Lucky Luciano, his involvement in bootlegging, gambling, and money laundering, and the constant pressure from the FBI, represented by agent Frank Rivers (David James Elliott), who is determined to bring him down.

As Stone gets deeper into Lansky’s story, he begins to question whether the old gangster is telling him the full truth or manipulating him for his own ends. The film presents Lansky as a complex figure, torn between his loyalty to his family and his ruthless pursuit of power and wealth. “Lansky” is not just a tale of crime but a meditation on legacy, morality, and the cost of a life lived in the shadows.

Special Effects
The special effects in “Lansky” are minimal, with the film focusing on period-accurate set design, costumes, and cinematography to recreate the various eras of Lansky’s life. The movie employs some CGI to enhance certain scenes, such as recreating historical locations or events, but the effects are used sparingly to maintain the film’s grounded and realistic tone.

Box Office Performance
“Lansky” was released in select theaters and on video on demand (VOD) simultaneously. Its box office performance was modest, reflecting its niche appeal as a biographical crime drama. However, it found a broader audience through streaming services and gained attention for Harvey Keitel’s performance.

Filming Locations

• Mobile, Alabama, USA
• New York City, New York, USA
• Miami, Florida, USA

Notable Quotes

• “They say we’re criminals, but they’re the ones who write the laws.” – Meyer Lansky
• “It’s not about the money. It’s about power, respect, and how you leave your mark.” – Meyer Lansky

Behind-the-Scenes
The film is based on interviews conducted by Robert Rockaway, the director’s father, with the real Meyer Lansky during his later years. Harvey Keitel, known for his roles in classic crime films, brings a depth and gravitas to the role of Lansky, portraying him as a man reflecting on his life’s choices. The film blends fact with fiction, leaving viewers to ponder what parts of Lansky’s story are real and what might be a myth.

Awards

• None

Final Verdict
“Lansky” offers a compelling look at the life of one of America’s most notorious mobsters, with a standout performance by Harvey Keitel. The film’s narrative structure, weaving between past and present, keeps the story engaging and allows for a deep exploration of Lansky’s character. While it may not have the explosive action of some other crime dramas, it compensates with rich character development and a thoughtful exploration of the themes of power, loyalty, and legacy. It’s a must-watch for fans of crime films and those interested in the history of organized crime in America.

IMDb Rating
6.3/10