“Once Upon a Time in America” (1984) is an epic crime drama directed by Sergio Leone. The film spans several decades, telling the story of a group of Jewish friends who rise to power in the world of organized crime in New York City.
The narrative follows David “Noodles” Aaronson (played by Robert De Niro), a former gangster, as he reflects on his past, focusing on his youth in the early 20th century and his adult years during the Prohibition era. The story unfolds in a non-linear fashion, shifting between different time periodsโNoodlesโ memories of his childhood in the 1920s, his rise through the criminal underworld, and his later life after a betrayal that leads to his imprisonment.
The film explores themes of friendship, betrayal, love, and the consequences of a life in crime. It depicts the harsh realities of the American immigrant experience while also delving into complex emotions and moral dilemmas. The film is known for its epic scope, stunning cinematography, and Ennio Morriconeโs iconic score.
