Cincinnati’s Cinematic Renaissance: Alto Knights Unveiled
In a captivating blend of cinematic nostalgia and modern storytelling, Barry Levinson, renowned director of the Oscar-winning Rain Man, orchestrated a triumphant return to Cincinnati’s filmmaking landscape. A year ago, the city bore witness to the creation of Alto Knights, a mob movie that underwent a fascinating transformation from its original title, The Wise Guys.
The Evolution of Alto Knights: A Cinematic Journey
Originally slated for release on Feb. 2, the film encountered a delay attributed to last year’s actors’ and writers’ strikes, a testament to the unpredictable nature of the industry. Levinson, the maestro behind Rain Man, skillfully navigated the challenges, reshaping the narrative and renaming the film Alto Knights. This artistic endeavor marked a significant milestone as the inaugural original feature film authorized by Warner Bros. Discovery post their 2022 merger.
De Niro’s Dual Persona: Vito Genovese and Frank Costello
At the heart of Alto Knights is Robert De Niro, an Oscar-winner gracing the screen in dual roles as Italian American crime bosses Vito Genovese and Frank Costello. The film’s magnetic cast also includes Debra Messing, known for her role in Will & Grace, alongside Kathrine Narducci, Matt Servitto, and Cosmo Jarvis, each contributing to the cinematic tapestry.
Cincinnati’s Transformation into Cinematic Backdrop
The iconic Arnold’s Bar & Grill Downtown underwent a metamorphosis, becoming C.C. Benito’s Bakery & Grocery for the movie. A temporary closure from Jan. 16 to Feb. 21 last year transformed the location into a cinematic canvas. This intricate fusion of reality and fiction illustrates the dedication to crafting a compelling visual experience.
From Rain Man to Alto Knights: Cincinnati’s Cinematic Rise
Barry Levinson’s cinematic legacy in Cincinnati dates back to the Oscar-winning Rain Man in 1988. The film’s four Academy Awards propelled the city onto Hollywood’s radar, leading to the establishment of Film Cincinnati, previously known as the Cincinnati Film Commission. The subsequent years witnessed a parade of cinematic gems, including Lost In Yonkers, Tango & Cash, Little Man Tate, A Rage in Harlem, Milk Money, and In Too Deep.
Cincinnati’s Starring Role: Moviemaker’s Recognition
Alto Knights solidified Cincinnati’s standing as a premier location for moviemakers, earning the city the 11th spot on Moviemaker magazine’s prestigious annual list. This recognition, maintained for three consecutive years, highlights the city’s appeal, evidenced by the diverse array of films shot on its streets, including Regina King’s Shirley, Austin Butler’s The Bikeriders, and the adaptation of John Green’s novel, Turtles All The Way Down.
A Cinematic Ecosystem: Ohio’s Tax Credits and Film Cincinnati’s Impact
The allure of Ohio’s tax credits for filmmakers played a pivotal role in attracting projects like Alto Knights, Shirley, and Nutcrackers, the latter featuring Ben Stiller. Film Cincinnati, under the leadership of Kristen Schlotman, supported 26 projects in the past year. Schlotman’s advocacy successfully led to an increase in the Ohio Motion Picture Tax Credit from $40 million to $75 million, effective July this year, ensuring the city’s continued prominence in the world of cinema.
In the tapestry of Cincinnati’s cinematic narrative, Alto Knights emerges as a testament to resilience, creativity, and the symbiotic relationship between the city and the art of filmmaking.
