A Journey Through Time: Alto Knights, A 1950s Mob Movie, Set to Arrive in Theaters
In the realm of cinema, where stories come to life on the silver screen, a captivating tale is set to unfold. Alto Knights, a film steeped in the allure of the 1950s mob era, is poised to grace theaters on November 15, 2024, promising a riveting cinematic experience.
A Tale of Gangster Rivalry and Power Play
Alto Knights transports viewers to the heart of a tumultuous era, where the streets of New York City pulsate with tension and danger. Robert De Niro, a cinematic icon known for his poignant performances, takes on the dual roles of Vito Genovese and Frank Costello, two formidable Italian-American crime bosses locked in a fierce battle for power and supremacy.
A Stellar Cast and the Return of a Visionary Director
Surrounding De Niro is an ensemble of talented actors, each bringing their unique charisma and acting prowess to the screen. Debra Messing, renowned for her comedic brilliance in Will & Grace, joins the cast alongside Kathrine Narducci, fresh from her appearance alongside De Niro in The Irishman. Matt Servitto, known for his compelling portrayal in The Sopranos, and Cosmo Jarvis, with his acclaimed performances in Calm with Horses and Lady Macbeth, complete the stellar line-up.
At the helm of this cinematic journey is Barry Levinson, the visionary director who brought Rain Man to life in 1988, earning four Academy Awards and etching Cincinnati on the filmmaking map. Levinson’s return to direct Alto Knights promises an immersive and captivating experience, blending historical authenticity with gripping storytelling.
A Transformative Presence in Cincinnati
The production of Alto Knights left an indelible mark on Cincinnati, Ohio. Arnold’s Bar & Grill, a beloved local establishment, underwent a remarkable transformation into C.C. Bonito’s Bakery & Grocery, serving as a backdrop for the film’s pivotal scenes. For over a month, from January 16 to February 21, 2023, Arnold’s temporarily closed its doors to facilitate the filming process, creating an authentic 1950s ambiance.
Cincinnati’s Rise as a Filmmaking Hub
Alto Knights played a pivotal role in Cincinnati’s growing reputation as a vibrant filmmaking destination. Moviemaker magazine recognized the city’s commitment to the film industry, ranking it eleventh on its annual list of “Best Places To Live And Work For Moviemakers” for a consecutive three years. This accolade reflects Cincinnati’s unwavering support for filmmakers, including projects such as Regina King’s Shirley, Austin Butler’s The Bikeriders, and Turtles All The Way Down, based on John Green’s novel.
Economic Impact and the Power of Film Incentives
The presence of film productions like Alto Knights has had a profound impact on Cincinnati’s economy. A recently commissioned Economic Impact Study conducted by the UC Economics Center revealed that between 2019 and 2022, the film industry generated a total economic impact of $258 million and created 1,873 jobs in the region.
Ohio’s tax credits for filmmakers have served as a catalyst for this growth. In 2022, approximately $53.6 million in Ohio Motion Picture Tax Credits were awarded to 25 productions filmed in the Cincinnati Region. For every dollar invested in the tax credit program, the Cincinnati MSA experienced a remarkable return of $6.54 in direct new spending.
Navigating a Challenging Year and Securing Future Success
The past year presented both challenges and triumphs for Film Cincinnati. Despite the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization remained resilient, supporting 26 film projects and actively advocating for increased support for the film industry. A significant breakthrough came when Ohio lawmakers voted to nearly double the Ohio Motion Picture Tax Credit from $40 million to $75 million, effective July 2024. This substantial investment is expected to attract even more film productions to Cincinnati, further boosting the local economy and creating job opportunities.
A Bright Future Ahead
The increased tax credit has already generated positive outcomes, with several new projects in the pipeline for the coming years. Film Cincinnati Executive Director Kristen Schlotman expressed optimism for the future, stating, “This endorsement and the increase in the Ohio Motion Picture Tax Credit by state officials is already paying off with new projects for the coming years.”
As Alto Knights prepares to hit theaters, it serves as a testament to the transformative power of cinema, the dedication of filmmakers, and the resilience of Cincinnati’s growing film industry. The film promises to captivate audiences with its compelling storyline, stellar cast, and immersive setting, leaving a lasting impression on the world of cinematic entertainment.