Jersey born and raised Kevin Interdonato makes his directorial debut with a dark and compelling crime drama set in the Garden State. Also known for his role as Dogsy in “The Sopranos,” and most recently as Tony Suferin on the Showtime series “City on a Hill.”
Watch the full trailer here:
New Jersey has often been overlooked in the realm of cinema, despite its deep roots and vibrant history. While a handful of suburban tales have graced the silver screen, the cinematic legacy of the state has frequently been overshadowed. Kevin Interdonato, known for his role as Dogsy in The Sopranos, seeks to reshape this narrative with his directorial debut, “The Bastard Sons.”
This independent thriller not only boasts impressive production values but also unveils a dark and compelling crime drama deeply entrenched in the Garden State. The film takes pride in its Jersey heritage, utilizing local settings and a cast and crew predominantly hailing from the state.
A Story of Revenge and Redemption
Interdonato steps into the role of Vincent Damiano, a small-town gangster whose world is thrust into chaos when his father is mysteriously killed just before inheriting a substantial portion of the family’s underground crime network. The narrative unfolds as Vincent, suspecting his father’s partner, Frank Rome (portrayed by fellow Sopranos actor Al Sapienza), of foul play, disappears only to resurface weeks later, prepared to reclaim what is rightfully his.
With childhood friends-turned-family by his side, Vincent embarks on a revenge journey, navigating the treacherous criminal underworld while ensuring the safety of his partner, Olivia (Anastasia Ganias).
The Bastard Sons – The gangster film Jersey has been waiting for
Authentic Jersey
From gritty highways to picturesque beach towns, The Bastard Sons authentically captures New Jersey’s essence, featuring iconic landmarks like Lance and Debbie’s Wonder Bar in Asbury Park. Beyond the scenic backdrop, the film encapsulates the gritty and resilient spirit that defines Jersey, adding depth to a familiar crime narrative.
Interdonato’s portrayal of Vincent, marked by remarkable control, injects an unpolished realism often overlooked by filmmakers, complemented by a script co-written with Glenn Rodriguez.
More Than Just Brutal
The film’s distinctiveness goes beyond its narrative and setting. Interdonato’s intense action sequences—combined with Rey Llewellyn’s prosthetics work—set “The Bastard Sons” apart. The commitment to visceral body contortion and explicit gore contributes to a level of violence rarely seen in the genre.
The film’s final act, characterized by pulse-pounding action and shocking shootouts, showcases the collaborative efforts of the creative team in delivering an unpredictable and impactful conclusion.
The Bastard Sons is more than just brutality. Interdonato weaves a narrative infused with themes of family blood and loyalty, reflecting the ethos of New Jersey. The on-screen chemistry between Vincent and his gang adds depth to high-stakes action set pieces, providing insight into the characters’ shared history.
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Additionally, the nuanced relationship between Vincent and Olivia, portrayed by Interdonato and Ganias, injects a touch of complexity into the traditionally suave and bulletproof genre. Sapienza’s performance as Rome deserves recognition, showcasing his exceptional talent in delivering impactful moments with minimal screen time. Additionally, The Bastard Sons stars UFC Legend Frankie Edgar, Roger Matthews and many other New Jersey luminaries. The film also won best actor and best film at the AmiCorte Film Festival in Italy which is an extremely prestigious award!
A Jersey Gem
With unwavering dedication, Kevin Interdonato has delivered a powerhouse independent film in “The Bastard Sons.” This gritty crime drama isn’t just a treat for New Jersey natives – it’s a testament to the state’s vibrant storytelling spirit and a reminder that powerful narratives can blossom anywhere. Buckle up, because this gripping journey into the Garden State’s underbelly hits Prime Video on January 5th, 2024. Don’t miss out—click here for more details.
Prepare yourselves, New Jersey, the gripping gangster drama you’ve been yearning for is on Prime Video now.
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About the Author/s
Tom is a lifelong New Jersey resident, Rutgers and FDU alumni and the publisher of The Digest.
