Making of the Mob: New York

Making of the Mob: New York is an enthralling eight-part docudrama that premiered on AMC in 2015. This innovative series diligently chronicles the historical journey of the mob in America, unquestionably impacting both American society and pop culture. The series specifically follows the birth and development of the New York mafia, focusing on the bio-historical evolution of illustrious and infamous mob figures, rather than being a fictional crime drama.

The series does well to convey a sense of gradual evolution, taking us back to the grassroots of organized crime from 1905, traversing through key historical moments that unraveled over several decades. This rollicking journey starts from the crowded streets populated by immigrant communities in the early part of the twentieth century, cutting through the gates of the prohibition era, dancing around the flamboyance of the jazz era, closely shadowing the shadows of WWII, to eventually illuminating the matured organized crime syndicates centered in New York City of the late 1950s.

Framed meticulously with a focus on five key figures, the series takes a closer look at Charles "Lucky" Luciano, Meyer Lansky, Benjamin "Bugsy" Siegel, Frank Costello, and Vito Genovese. Each of these figures has a significant role in expanding the influence of the mob. The series sheds light on their ascent and, ultimately, their spectacular falls.

Each episode of Making of the Mob: New York diplomatically amalgamates dramatic scenes, documentary footage, and interviews with historians, authors, actors, law enforcement personnel, and family members of the mobsters. This combination provides a comprehensive view of the mob’s rise, weaving a rich tapestry of the socio-political climate and the deep-seated underbelly of organized crime in the 20th century.

The series thrives in its attention to detail, taking viewers deep into the minds of the mobsters via these intense theatrical re-enactments. It recreates a world layered with complex characters, high stakes, secretive alliances, betrayals, and power struggles that lay the sturdy foundation for future organized crime syndicates in America. This is effectively juxtaposed with real archival footage and photographs, and the well-researched narratives from experts to reveal grim realities behind the dramatized mythology of these Mob legends.

Among the several striking elements of the series is its effort to humanize these mobsters, who have often been glamorized or vilified in popular culture. By delving into their personal lives, their immigrant experience, family bonds, friendships, loyalties, and motivations, the show presents these characters in a new light and helps the viewers understand the personas beyond their criminal activities.

This is not to say that the series shies away from showcasing the brutal violence, manipulations, and the merciless world that these mobsters inhabited and governed. It gives an uncensored view of the Mafia's violent tactics, shedding light on the dark, ruthless, and illegal maneuvers that played a significant role in their ascendancy to power while maintaining a stranglehold on their criminal empire.

Making of the Mob: New York successfully illustrates the narrative of the American Dream turned on its head. It is a masterful depiction of five immigrants who, despite their illicit means, managed to shape their fortunes and leave a lasting imprint on America. The series represents the embodiment of ambition, resourcefulness, and resilience, albeit laced with the ignominy of crime, violence, and an ever-looming threat to life.

The series benefits from excellent cinematography, deft storytelling, and superb acting performances, which make for a compelling viewing experience. The series' archival footage and interviews with prominent mob scholars offer an authentic, insightful perspective into the mob's history that sets this series apart from other crime dramas.

In essence, Making of the Mob: New York offers a unique blend of drama and documentary, creating an immersive viewing experience that is both educational and entertaining. It's a must-watch for viewers interested in the historical intricacies of organized crime in America. Through its well-crafted narrative, the series reveals how a group of young gangsters would rise to become some of the most formidable criminal masterminds in American history.