Donnie Brasco

Donnie Brasco is a crime drama film directed by Mike Newell and starring Al Pacino and Johnny Depp that was released in 1997. This true story follows Joe Pistone, an FBI agent, infiltrating the New York mafia. Pistone (as Donnie Brasco) is able to join a mafia group commanded by Sonny Black after befriending Lefty Ruggiero. As the group goes about collecting money for 'the bosses,' Ruggiero and Pistone get closer. When Black becomes a boss, the organization becomes big-time, and Pistone collects evidence in the meantime. His marriage goes apart, and the mafia suspects him of being a mole within the group. Pistone is in a tremendous pickle since he knows that if he leaves the mob, Ruggiero will suffer the consequences.

Donnie Brasco premiered on February 24, 1997, in Century City, and was released by TriStar Pictures on February 28, 1997. The film was a box office hit, grossing $124.9 million against a $35 million budget, and receiving positive critical reviews. The film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Detailed Information:
Directed by: Mike Newell
Starring: Al Pacino, Johnny Depp, Michael Madsen, Bruno Kirby
Release dates: February 24, 1997 (Century City, California)/February 28, 1997 (United States)
Running time: 127 minutes