By Lee Pfeiffer
Sometimes nice guys do finish first. Such is the case with actor Robert Davi, who has been a fixture in popular movies since his screen debut opposite Frank Sinatra in the 1970's TV movie Contract on Cherry Street. Over the decades, Davi- like any working actor - has enjoyed great successes as well as appearing in artistic misfires. I first met him last November when I interviewed him at his alma mater, Hofstra University, in Long Island. It was part of a James Bond event, and I was interested in meeting Davi because I had long admired his work onscreen and considered his performance as the villain Sanchez in the James Bond film Licence to Kill to be one of the best of the entire series. I was impressed by his complete lack of ego and his genuine respect for his fans. Davi spent a good deal of time mingling with people in the audience, signing countless autographs and talking with students about his days at Hofstra. Davi was at that time putting the finishing touches on The Dukes, a light-hearted, comedic crime movie that he was starring in as well as making his directorial debut with. Several months ago, I got to see the film, which, over the last year, has been making the rounds at international film festivals and picking up widespread critical praise as well as prizes. (Variety gave the film a rare unqualified rave without a single negative word.)Â Suddenly, the first-time director found his film being shown alongside those of Francis Ford Coppola, Robert Redford and Sydney Lumet.
The Dukes is a moving and often very funny film that eschews car chases, violence and filthy language to concentrate on establishing strong characters. (Remember when most films took pains to do the same?). Davi and his pals are washed-up ex-Doo Wop singers who had a brief stint at the top of the charts in the 1960s but who have now fallen on hard times, working in menial jobs while desperately trying to find another gig on the nightclub circuit. When the financial burdens prove to be overwhelming, Davi and his partners decide to plan a heist that is as amusing as it is suspenseful. I won't make this a formal review of the film, because the version I saw has since been modified. Thus, I'll wait until I see the finished product. However, I do feel I can say that while Davi's performance is a real gem, it's his skill as director that has been responsible for the praise he has been reaping. He's an actor's director and willingly makes himself an ensemble player among an inspired and highly talented cast that includes Peter Bogdanovich, Chazz Palminteri, Frank D'Amico, Miriam Margolyes and even veteran actor Joe Campenella. The performances are all terrific, as is the oldies soundtrack that will have you tapping your feet throughout as you cheer on the loveable losers onscreen. (Davi should make every effort to get a soundtrack CD out on the film.)
Devoid of major marketing dollars, Davi has been launching a "guerilla" campaign relying on visiting neighborhoods and getting the word out among every day people. (Though, to date he has thankfully avoided using the suddenly ubiquitous Joe the Plumber as a pitchman for the movie!) Against all odds, he's secured a major nationwide release for the movie, which opens on November 14 in New York, then rolls out in other areas on November 21. In an age of dumbed-down, CGI-filled movies, it's a joy to see a movie with great heart, great performances and great direction. Davi emerges as a major talent both in front of the camera, and behind it as well. I'm already looking forward to his next film.
To read the Hollywood Reporter interview with Davi click here
Visit The Dukes official web site and view trailer by clicking here