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THE DUKES Send This Review to a Friend
A good cast and lots of heart combine to make “The Dukes” an appealing, often amusing story of guys who are trying to re-establish self-respect in the wake of memories about when they were a successful Doo Wop group. The film, directed and co-written by Robert Davi, who also is one of the stars, strikes a note at the present when there may be people from all walks of life who find themselves in the position of trying to survive and re-invent themselves.
“The Dukes” mixes sentiment and comedy, and when the fellows need money to promote themselves, they enter into a hare-brained robbery scheme that is somewhat reminiscent of the Italian comedy caper film, “Big Deal on Madonna Street.” The casting is right on target.
The setting is in Los Angeles, where Davi as Danny DePasquale and Chazz Palminteri as George Zucco are working in a restaurant owned by Miriam Margolyes as tough-talking but likable Aunt Vee. Their two pals are Frank D’Amico as Armond Kaputo and Elya Baskin as Murph Sinitsky. They look like a bunch of losers, although as we get to know them, we see their potential if only they can get their act together in professional as well as personal lives.
Peter Bogdanovich plays their manager Lou Fiola, who has stuck with them and, although not always appreciated, is trying to find them gigs better than the commercials in which they have to dress up in dopey costumes. The screenplay, which Davi co-wrote with James Andronica, gets strained in parts, but the entertaining performances, the concept and the humor give the film the sort of warmth that invites an audience to feel good when things go right.
Margolyes, who has been in many British projects, seems thoroughly at home with her Italian accent and running an Italian restaurant. Davi and Palminteri are especially enjoyable to watch. This is the first feature-length film that Davi, best known for his extensive acting work, has directed, and he exhibits a passionate feel for his subject that convinces you he really enjoys his characters. As you would expect, there is a lively score that sets the required musical tone. A Cavu Pictures release.
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