Blood Feud
Blood Feud

Blood Feud

1983TV ShowEnded1 SeasonEnglish

Blood Feud is a 1983 television miniseries surrounding around the conflict between Jimmy Hoffa and Robert F. Kennedy in a 11-year span from 1957 until Kennedy's assassination in 1968. The 210-minute film was directed by Mike Newell and written by Robert Boris. It stars Robert Blake as Hoffa and Cotter Smith as Kennedy with Danny Aiello and Brian Dennehy in supporting roles as union associates of Hoffa's. The television film was distributed by Operation Prime Time, a syndicated block of television programming offered to mostly American independent stations. Blake was nominated for an Emmy and Golden Globe for Best Actor for his performance as Hoffa.

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Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Director: Mel DamskiGenres: Drama, Crime, Biography

Plot Summary

This made-for-television film chronicles the violent, decades-long feud between two prominent families in Detroit: the Toffolomos and the Dempseys. It explores the origins of their animosity, stemming from business rivalries and personal betrayals, and depicts how their conflict escalated into a bloody war of attrition. The narrative delves into the lives of the key figures on both sides, highlighting their ruthless tactics and the devastating impact their feud had on their families and the community.

Critical Reception

Blood Feud was a notable television event, receiving considerable attention for its dramatic portrayal of a real-life criminal saga. While often described as gritty and intense, its critical reception was somewhat divided, with praise for the performances, particularly Robert Blake, but some criticism regarding its length and the graphic nature of its content.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its intense portrayal of a violent feud.
  • Robert Blake's performance was a highlight for many critics.
  • Some found the film's length and graphic nature to be excessive.

Google audience: Audience reception for 'Blood Feud' is not readily available through Google's user review system. However, its television airing suggests it was watched by a significant audience interested in crime dramas and biographical stories.

Awards & Accolades

Robert Blake was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or a Special.

Fun Fact

The film is based on the true story of the conflict between the Toffolomo and Cangemi families in Detroit, who were involved in organized crime and a violent turf war during the mid-20th century.

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