The Brothers Rico
The Brothers Rico

Movie spotlight

The Brothers Rico

1957
Movie
92 min
English

Eddie Rico, the erstwhile bookkeeper for a big Mafia boss, is now making a living as an honest merchant in Florida with his family. Things go sour when the police start a search for his syndicate-linked brothers who are on the lam after a big hit, forcing Eddie to get involved with the Mafia again.

Insights

IMDb6.7/10
Director: Don SiegelGenres: Crime, Drama, Film-Noir

Plot Summary

Johnny Rico, a former mob enforcer, tries to go straight after his release from prison. However, his younger brother, Gino, a hitman still active in the criminal underworld, forces Johnny back into illegal activities. Johnny struggles to protect his family and escape his past, facing betrayal and violence at every turn. The film explores themes of loyalty, greed, and the inescapable nature of one's former life.

Critical Reception

The Brothers Rico received mixed reviews upon its release but has since been re-evaluated as a strong example of a late film noir, praised for its gritty atmosphere and tight direction. Critics noted its bleak outlook and effective portrayal of escalating desperation.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its taut direction by Don Siegel and grimly effective atmosphere.

  • Seen as a solid, if somewhat standard, late-era film noir.

  • Richard Conte's performance as the conflicted ex-con is a highlight.

Google audience: Audience reception for The Brothers Rico is not extensively documented, but it is generally regarded by genre enthusiasts as a competent and atmospheric film noir.

Fun Fact

The film was based on the 1947 novel of the same name by David Goodis, a prominent writer of crime fiction known for his noir style.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
John Chard

John Chard

But Eddie you got even bigger troubles. You going to live. The Brothers Rico is directed by Phil Karlson and adapted to screenplay by Lewis Meltzer, Ben Perry and Dalton Trumbo from a story written by Georges Simenon. It stars Richard ...