DVD Review: Frank Vincent Stars in Local Drama ‘Chicago Overcoat’

Submitted by BrianTT on May 5, 2011 - 11:51am

CHICAGO – Frank Vincent brings gravity to the somewhat generic tale of “Chicago Overcoat,” a local production about an aging hitman trying to do one last job before trying to retire from a profession that doesn’t come with pension plans. After traveling the festival circuit for sometime, the hitman drama is now available on DVD.

DVD Rating: 3.5/5.0

Vincent, most well-known to modern audiences for his work on “The Sopranos” and in “GoodFellas”, brings a softer side to his starring role as Lou Marazano, a guy who honestly just wants to disappear after doing one final assignment. He’s the best thing about “Chicago Overcoat,” giving a delicate, quiet performance where many actors would have just chewed the scenery. As the bluesy soundtrack croons “I can’t do the things I used to do,” Vincent perfectly captures a man who knows his prime is behind him.

Chicago Overcoatwas released on Blu-Ray and DVD on April 19, 2011
Photo credit: MTI Home Video

Marazano used to be the lead killer for the 31st Street Crew of the Chicago Outfit. He doesn’t live the flashy or violent life he used to live, spending time with his divorced daughter (Gina D’Ercoli) and his grandson Mike (Robert Gerdisch). He’s clearly a family man, wishing the best for those he loves. He wants to help them and he knows the best way to do it — one last major job.

His former boss Stefano (Armand Assante) needs a trio of hits done and Lou volunteers for the job. While he gets caught up in a potentially deadly situation, Lou is drawn closer to an old friend named Lorraine (Kathrine Narducci, also best-known from “The Sopranos). The quiet scenes between Vincent & Narducci are actually the best in the film. As a huge fan of “The Sopranos,” it’s nice to see these two talented character actors given a chance to build characters instead of just playing cliche.

We’ve seen “Chicago Overcoat” before. Most of the actors involved (with the exception of the surprising depth by Vincent) aren’t really stretching beyond that for which they are most well-known. But the movie fits like its title — Sure, it’s well-worn, but it’s also comfortable in its familiarity. And the local flavor should add an intriguing touch for those in love with the Windy City.

Special Features:
o What Is A Chicago Overcoat?
o The Tommy Gun Shootout
o Deleted Scenes
o Trailer

“Chicago Overcoat” stars Frank Vincent, Kathrine Narducci, Stacy Keach, Mike Starr, and Armand Assante. It was written by John Busher & Josh Staman and directed by Brian Cautner. It was released on DVD on April 19th, 2011.