Critics Are Divided, But Tom Hardy’s Al Capone May Be His Boldest Role Yet

Hollywood star Tom Hardy takes on one of his most transformative roles yet, portraying the infamous gangster Al Capone in the 2020 biopic Capone. Directed by Josh Trank, the film dives deep into the final, tragic year of Capone’s life, offering a haunting look at the once-feared mobster’s decline into severe health struggles and dementia. This exploration of Capone’s last months behind bars is both a physical and psychological journey for Hardy, who immerses himself in the role with an intensity that leaves a lasting impact.

A Tale of Tragedy and Decline

The film opens in 1945, after Capone’s parole from the Atlanta Penitentiary, where he had spent years serving an 11-year sentence. Returning to his Florida home with his wife Mae, Capone is no longer the formidable gangster who once controlled the streets of Chicago. Instead, he is a man battling the ravages of neurosyphilis and dementia, struggling to make sense of his fading memories and his crumbling fortune. Hardy’s portrayal captures Capone’s physical and mental deterioration with haunting realism, showcasing the emotional weight of a man who once commanded fear and respect but is now reduced to a shell of his former self.

As Capone’s health worsens, the film plunges into his psychological descent, marked by disturbing hallucinations and paranoia. He experiences vivid visions, including a haunting image of a boy with a balloon, and is tormented by figures from his past, both real and imagined. Hardy’s performance in these moments is nothing short of extraordinary, with his portrayal of Capone’s mental unraveling drawing from a deep well of empathy and intensity. As the gangster’s grip on reality slips further, Capone becomes a dark and compelling study of how one of history’s most notorious criminals faced his inevitable demise.

A Cast of Talents

Supporting Hardy in this somber narrative is a talented ensemble cast, including Linda Cardellini, Jack Lowden, Noel Fisher, Kyle MacLachlan, and Matt Dillon. Each actor brings depth to their respective roles, enhancing the film’s somber tone. The performances are commendable, though it is Hardy’s transformation into Capone that truly dominates the screen. His ability to convey both physical and emotional pain, from Capone’s erratic behavior to his moments of lucid reflection, makes his portrayal unforgettable.

Mixed Reviews and Audience Reactions

Upon its release, Capone garnered mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. While some praised Hardy’s compelling performance, others criticized the film for its slow pacing and lack of substance. Empire magazine noted that while the film lacked the subtlety and depth one might expect from a biographical drama, it possessed an unconventional creativity that set it apart from more traditional franchise films. The magazine described the film as “unhinged” but acknowledged its distinctiveness in exploring Capone’s final year.

The New York Times echoed similar sentiments, pointing out that the fantasy sequences, including Capone vengefully shooting an alligator or singing along to The Wizard of Oz, felt disconnected from the film’s otherwise somber tone. Yet, despite the film’s oddities, the fantasy elements were seen as an attempt to illustrate the disorienting nature of Capone’s mental state, providing a glimpse into his fragmented psyche.

Audience reactions were similarly divided. Some found the portrayal of Capone’s decline compelling, while others found the slow burn of the narrative unengaging. One particularly harsh reviewer on Rotten Tomatoes noted that the film’s focus on Capone’s dying days was “boring as hell,” questioning why anyone would want to watch a film about an elderly man’s slow deterioration. However, for those who appreciated the film’s raw, unvarnished depiction of the gangster’s final days, Hardy’s performance was universally praised.

Hardy’s Award-Worthy Performance

While opinions on the film itself may be divided, many viewers agree that Capone is worth watching for Hardy’s remarkable performance alone. One reviewer remarked that Hardy’s portrayal of a dying man with neurosyphilis was unlike anything they had seen before, noting that it deserved recognition for its authenticity. Others applauded the depth Hardy brought to a character that could easily have been reduced to a one-dimensional portrayal of a mob boss, instead transforming Capone into a tragic figure struggling with his past, his health, and his own mind.

Conclusion

Capone is a bold and unconventional film that delves into the heartbreaking final moments of one of America’s most infamous criminals. While it may not satisfy everyone’s expectations of a traditional biopic, Tom Hardy’s exceptional performance as the ailing gangster elevates the film into something worth watching. As a gripping exploration of Al Capone’s decline, Capone serves as a reminder of the fragility of even the most feared men, offering a rare, nuanced look at a notorious figure in the final stages of his life. The film is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime and can also be rented on Apple TV.