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Capone is a 1975 American crime movie. It is about the real-life gangster Al Capone, who was one of the most powerful criminals in the United States during the early 1900s. The movie is directed by Steve Carver and produced by Roger Corman. Actor Ben Gazzara plays Al Capone. Other actors include Harry Guardino, Susan Blakely, John Cassavetes, and Sylvester Stallone, who appears in one of his first movie roles.

The movie is based on Al Capone’s life, but it is not completely true. Some parts are changed or added to make the story more dramatic. For example, the movie does not show Capone’s real wife and child. Instead, it gives him a fictional love interest named Iris Crawford. The movie also shows Frank Nitti giving a speech at Capone’s funeral, even though in real life Capone lived longer than Nitti.

The film was released on April 6, 1975, by 20th Century Fox. Critics did not like it much, but many people watched it, so it made good money.

 

The Beginning of Capone’s Life of Crime:

The story starts on May 6, 1918, in Brooklyn, New York. Al Capone is still a young criminal. Two police officers try to stop a group of men who are stealing expensive fur coats. Capone secretly told the police about the robbery so that he could attack them later. A fight breaks out. During the fight, Capone is thrown through a glass window. This leaves him with a deep scar on his face, which later becomes famous.

Capone is arrested but is soon released without any punishment because a powerful police officer helps him. After leaving the police station, Capone meets two important gang leaders, Johnny Torrio and Frankie Yale. They are impressed by Capone’s clever thinking and his violence. They invite him to join their criminal gang, known as the Five Points Gang.

 

Moving to Chicago and the Start of Power:

In 1919, a new law called Prohibition is about to begin. This law makes selling alcohol illegal in the United States. Johnny Torrio sees this as a chance to make a lot of money by selling alcohol secretly. His boss, Big Jim Colosimo, does not agree and refuses to be part of it.

Johnny decides that Colosimo must be removed. He sends for Capone and brings him to Chicago. Capone works as an enforcer, meaning he uses violence to protect the gang’s business. Capone meets a dancer and barmaid named Iris Crawford, who becomes close to him.

One morning, Big Jim Colosimo enters a restaurant. Capone follows him quietly and kills him. With Colosimo gone, Johnny and Capone begin their alcohol business and grow stronger.

 

Gang Wars in Chicago:

By the early 1920s, many gangs are fighting for control of Chicago. Alcohol smuggling brings huge profits but also violence. Rival gangs steal from each other and kill each other’s men.

Johnny Torrio divides the city into different areas so each gang controls one part. Capone becomes more powerful and more violent. He enjoys his growing control and fame.

In 1923, gang violence increases. Important gang members are killed, and funerals become places of threats and anger. Capone orders the killing of rival gang leader Dion O’Banion, which makes the war even worse.

 

Johnny Leaves, Capone Takes Over:

In 1925, Johnny Torrio is badly injured in an attack by rival gang members. He survives but realizes he no longer wants to live a criminal life. Johnny decides to leave the United States and return to Italy.

Before leaving, Johnny gives full control of the gang, called the Chicago Outfit, to Al Capone. Capone is now the boss of one of the most powerful crime organizations in the country.

 

Capone at His Peak:

By 1926, Capone controls much of Chicago. He bribes police, lawyers, and politicians to stay out of jail. When the district attorney threatens him, Capone reminds him that many government officials are corrupt too. The charges are dropped.

Capone lives a rich life, goes to parties, and spends time with Iris. But violence never stops. Rival gangs continue to attack him.

One day, Capone survives an attack thanks to his loyal bodyguard Frank Nitti. Capone orders revenge, and his enemies are killed.

 

Tragedy and the Valentine’s Day Massacre:

In 1929, Capone plans to destroy his biggest rival, Bugs Moran. That same night, Capone and Iris are eating at a restaurant when Moran’s men attack. Iris is killed. Capone is heartbroken and angry.

A few days later, on February 14, 1929, Capone’s men dress as police officers and enter one of Moran’s warehouses. They line up seven men against a wall and kill them. This event becomes known as the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre.

This massacre shocks the entire country.

 

Betrayal and Prison:

Frank Nitti believes Capone has gone too far. He secretly helps the government build a case against Capone. In 1931, Capone is finally arrested and taken to court.

The government cannot prove murder or bootlegging. Instead, Capone is found guilty of tax evasion—not paying taxes on his illegal income. He is sentenced to 11 years in prison and sent to Alcatraz.

 

The End of Al Capone:

By 1938, Capone’s health becomes very bad. Doctors discover that he has a serious illness that has damaged his brain. He becomes confused and angry.

After leaving prison, Capone lives quietly in Florida. In 1946, Frank Nitti visits him and sees that Capone is no longer the powerful man he once was. Capone does not recognize people properly and believes others are enemies.

Nitti finally admits that Capone destroyed everything with his violence and poor decisions.

Al Capone dies in 1947, weak and forgotten, ending the life of one of America’s most feared criminals.

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