A “neglected” gangster movie is hailed as “one of the very best of the genre” and is now streaming in the UK. The King of New York (1990) tells the story of Frank White (played by Christopher Walken), a fictional crime kingpin who emerges after a lengthy prison term intent on consolidating control of the underworld and giving back to the city’s poor.
It also features other major stars, including David Caruso, best known for his leading role in CSI: Miami, future Matrix star Laurence Fishburne, and 90s action icon Wesley Snipes. Steve Buscemi and Giancarlo Esposito also appear in supporting roles. The thriller, directed by Abel Ferrara and written by Nicholas St. John, sees White and his gang taking on his competition while being hunted by the NYPD and is regarded by many as an underrated classic.
One Google reviewer previously said the film is “up there with the very best of the genre but remains relatively unknown to the general public at large”.
They also praised the “great” supporting cast, but insisted it’s “Walken‘s show as the eerie White”.
The film has a 77% score on Rotten Tomatoes’ Popcornmeter (which is the percentage of users who rated the film 3.5 stars or higher), with one audience reviewer lauding the quality of the storytelling.
“There aren’t a lot of original gangster movie plots anymore,” they wrote. “Movies like this one set a high, high bar for any that follow.
“Casting was fantastic. Believable acting to go along with distinct characters,” they said, adding: “Great directing”.
Another said:” The highs and lows of every scene are constructed masterfully. Frank White is a walking poem.”
A third wrote: “Director Abel Ferrara’s depiction of the criminal underworld, combined with a fantastic supporting cast, makes for an intense viewing experience.”
They added that though the pacing is “uneven at times and some characters are underdeveloped, the film’s raw energy, stylish visuals, and immersive soundtrack make it a must-watch for fans of the crime genre”.
Meanwhile, another person only gave it three-and-a-half stars, describing it as a “pretty decent and somewhat gritty gangster flick.
They said the film “wanes at times and there are plenty clichés”, though “its redeemable qualities outweigh the movie’s faults”.
The film has an 18 certificate and contains strong bloody violence and hard drug use – so viewer discretion is advised.
The King of New York is available to stream on BFI Player, and Amazon Prime (with an Arrow Video add-on). It’s also available to rent or buy on YouTube.