Movie Review: Fresh Kills (2024)
“Fresh Kills,” directed by Jennifer Esposito, is a riveting crime drama that delves into the lives of women in a mob family in Staten Island during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Esposito, making her directorial debut, brings a unique perspective to the mafia genre, focusing on the often-overlooked experiences of women in these crime-ridden environments.
The late 1980s/early 1990s Staten Island to vivid life through the lens of Rose Larusso, an inquisitive young woman who discovers her father is an emerging mafia kingpin. Rose’s growing desire to break free from the path set before her soon threatens her existence and alienates her from her closest allies: her mother, aunt and sister.
The film follows sisters Rose (Emily Bader) and Connie (Odessa A’zion) as they navigate their father’s (Domenick Lombardozzi) involvement in organized crime. Rose is the quiet, introspective one, while Connie is outgoing and embraces their family’s lifestyle. Their mother, Francine (played by Esposito), is a complex character who struggles with the duality of loving her family and despising the violent world they are part of.
Esposito’s portrayal of the toxic masculinity and the suffocating expectations placed on the women in the family is both heartbreaking and empowering. The film’s pacing occasionally falters with its time jumps, but it gains momentum in its third act, delivering a powerful and emotional climax.
Overall, “Fresh Kills” stands out in the mafia genre for its fresh perspective and strong performances, particularly from Bader and A’zion, who bring depth and nuance to their roles.
Keywords from Netnaija:
- Fresh Kills 2024
- Jennifer Esposito
- Mafia drama
- Emily Bader
- Odessa A’zion
- Domenick Lombardozzi
- Staten Island
- Women in crime
- Toxic masculinity
- Family dynamics