Robert De Niro Takes on Dual Roles in ‘The Alto Knights’
In his upcoming film, The Alto Knights, Robert De Niro showcases his extraordinary range by portraying two rival crime bosses. The veteran actor describes this dual role as a significant technical challenge, requiring meticulous choreography and strategic camera work.
Technical Challenges of Dual Roles
De Niro explained that playing both Frank and Vito in the film called for precise positioning on set, as cameras move on dollies to capture the action. “It’s a technical thing where you have to be in a certain spot,” he stated, highlighting the intricate planning that went into his performance.
Dynamic Character Interactions
To facilitate seamless dialogue between his characters, De Niro enlisted the help of another actor, who read lines opposite him during the shoot. “When I would do Frank, he would do Vito. When I would do Vito, he would do Frank,” he recounted. This method was essential for maintaining authenticity, as De Niro felt that having an actor who understood the world he was depicting was crucial.
A Glimpse into Production Decisions
The casting process for The Alto Knights underwent numerous iterations. At one point, there were discussions about pairing De Niro with Al Pacino. However, De Niro was cautious about using dual roles as a mere gimmick. “I didn’t want it to be just a gimmick,” he commented. “But I thought there is something interesting about it.” This sentiment underscores his intention to explore deeper character dynamics rather than relying on star power alone.
Character Preparation and Research
In preparing for his characters, De Niro emphasized the variability in his research approach depending on the role. For his recent series, Zero Day, he extensively analyzed existing footage of political figures. “There’s so much out there about politicians and presidents… you see these interviews every day. See them in all kinds of uncomfortable situations, how they react,” he explained, showcasing his commitment to authenticity in his performances.
Cultural Connections and Creative Ideas
De Niro, whose heritage mixes Italian, Irish, Dutch, French, and German roots, mentions a stronger identification with Italian culture, particularly when taking on mob-related roles. The film features a unique scene that De Niro conceived himself, involving dogs adorned in mink coats. “Frank walks in the park with the dog, why would the dogs not have some kind of mink coat?” he asked, reflecting on his creative input into the film’s aesthetic.
Upcoming Release
The Alto Knights is set to debut next Friday, adding to De Niro’s already illustrious filmography, which includes classics like The Godfather Part II, Goodfellas, and The Irishman.
With this latest project, De Niro continues to demonstrate his dedication to the craft of acting, pushing the boundaries of storytelling in cinema.