Cast and Crew of Once Upon a Time in America

Once Upon a Time in America

"Once Upon a Time in America" is a captivating crime drama directed by Sergio Leone, renowned for his work on "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly." The movie is a sprawling epic that spans several decades, focusing on the lives of a group of Jewish gangsters growing up in the rough and tumble world of the Lower East Side of Manhattan during the Prohibition era. The film's central characters include Robert De Niro as David 'Noodles' Aaronson, a former gangster who returns to his old neighborhood after more than thirty years, and James Woods as Maximilian 'Max' Bercovicz, Noodles' childhood friend and partner in crime.

The film opens with Noodles being released from prison in 1933, after serving a fourteen-year sentence for a crime he did not commit. Upon his release, Noodles returns to the Lower East Side, where he reunites with his old friends and former gang members, including Max. As Noodles reacquaints himself with his old life, he is haunted by the ghosts of his past and the regrets of his former mistakes. The movie explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the passage of time, as Noodles grapples with his past and tries to make amends for his mistakes.

Throughout the film, Leone expertly weaves together Noodles' past and present, creating a complex narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The movie's stunning visuals and memorable performances, including De Niro's nuanced portrayal of Noodles, make it a standout addition to the crime drama genre. "Once Upon a Time in America" is a must-watch for fans of Leone's work, as well as anyone looking for a thoughtful and immersive exploration of the human condition. Whether you're a fan of crime dramas or just looking for a great movie to watch, "Once Upon a Time in America" is a classic that should not be missed.

Full Cast of Once Upon a Time in America

Robert De Niro as David 'Noodles' Aaronson

Robert De Niro

as David 'Noodles' Aaronson
Robert De Niro's performance as David 'Noodles' Aaronson in 'Once Upon a Time in America' is nothing short of extraordinary. His portrayal of the character's transformation from a young street kid to a mature and reflective man is both captivating and emotionally resonant. De Niro's ability to convey the weight of Noodles' past decisions and the burden of his regrets is truly remarkable. His nuanced performance, marked by subtle gestures and expressive eyes, adds layers of depth to the character and elevates the film to new heights. It's a performance that not only showcases De Niro's immense talent but also serves as a testament to his status as one of the greatest actors of his generation.
James Woods as Maximilian 'Max' Bercovicz

James Woods

as Maximilian 'Max' Bercovicz
James Woods delivers a standout performance as Maximilian 'Max' Bercovicz in Sergio Leone's epic crime drama, "Once Upon a Time in America". As the ambitious and cunning member of a Jewish gang in New York City, Woods masterfully portrays Max's complex character, showcasing his ruthless determination and unwavering loyalty to his friends. His intense screen presence and nuanced acting bring depth to the role, making Max one of the most memorable characters in the film. Woods' performance is a testament to his talent as an actor, and it's no surprise that his portrayal of Max is considered one of his best.
Elizabeth McGovern as Deborah Gelly

Elizabeth McGovern

as Deborah Gelly
Elizabeth McGovern delivers a captivating performance as Deborah Gelly in Sergio Leone's epic crime drama, "Once Upon a Time in America". McGovern's portrayal of the ambitious, determined, and vulnerable Deborah adds a layer of depth and emotion to the film. Her on-screen chemistry with Robert De Niro's character, David 'Noodles' Aaronson, is palpable and adds to the overall allure of their complex relationship. McGovern's nuanced acting, particularly in scenes where Deborah grapples with her feelings for Noodles and her own aspirations, showcases her talent and makes her performance truly memorable.
Treat Williams as James Conway O'Donnell

Treat Williams

as James Conway O'Donnell
Treat Williams delivers a compelling performance as James Conway O'Donnell in "Once Upon a Time in America". As the ruthless and ambitious gangster, Williams effectively portrays the character's complex nature, showcasing his charisma, brutality, and vulnerability. His portrayal of Conway's rise to power and eventual downfall is both captivating and tragic, making it a standout performance in this epic crime drama.
Tuesday Weld as Carol

Tuesday Weld

as Carol
Tuesday Weld's performance as Carol in "Once Upon a Time in America" is a standout, showcasing her range as an actress. She brings a delicate balance of vulnerability and strength to the character, making Carol a complex and intriguing figure. Weld's portrayal is nuanced, capturing the character's evolution from a naive young girl to a resilient woman. Her chemistry with Robert De Niro's character, Noodles, is palpable, adding depth to their relationship and the overall narrative. Weld's performance is a testament to her talent and a significant contribution to the film's enduring appeal.
Joe Pesci as Frankie Monaldi

Joe Pesci

as Frankie Monaldi
Joe Pesci's performance as Frankie Monaldi in "Once Upon a Time in America" is a standout, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Pesci brings a volatile intensity to the character, creating a compelling portrayal of a man whose loyalty and temper are equally fierce. His scenes with Robert De Niro are particularly memorable, as they navigate the complex dynamics of their lifelong friendship. Pesci's performance adds a layer of unpredictability and danger to the film, making it a must-watch for fans of his work.

Larry Rapp

as 'Fat' Moe Gelly

Amy Ryder

as Peggy
Jennifer Connelly as Young Deborah

Jennifer Connelly

as Young Deborah

Jennifer Lynn Connelly (born December 12, 1970) is an American actress. She began her career as a child model before ...

Adrian Curran

as Young Cockeye

Mike Monetti

as Young 'Fat' Moe Gelly

Noah Moazezi

as Dominic
Richard Bright as Chicken Joe

Richard Bright

as Chicken Joe

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Frank Gio

as Beefy

Julie Cohen

as Young Peggy

Frank Sisto

as Fred Capuano

Jerry Strivelli

as Johnny Capuano

Mike Gendel

as Irving Gold

Sandra Solberg

as Friend of Young Deborah

Margherita Pace

as Young Deborah (Double)

Bruno Iannone

as Thug

Angelo Florio

as Willie the Ape
Marcia Jean Kurtz as Max's Mother

Marcia Jean Kurtz

as Max's Mother

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Dutch Miller

as Van Linden

Frankie Caserta

as Bugsy's Gang

Joey Marzella

as Bugsy's Gang

Marvin Scott

as Interviewer

Ann Neville

as Girl in Coffin

Linda Ipanema

as Nurse Thompson

Richard Zobel

as Reporter 2

Baxter Harris

as Reporter 3
Arnon Milchan as Chauffeur

Arnon Milchan

as Chauffeur

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Marty Licata

as Cemetery Caretaker
Estelle Harris as Peggy's Mother

Estelle Harris

as Peggy's Mother

Estelle Harris (née Nussbaum; April 22, 1928 – April 2, 2022) was an American actress, comedienne, and voice artist, ...

Gerritt Debeer

as Drunk

Alexander Godfrey

as Newstand Man

Cliff Cudney

as Mounted Policeman

Paul Farentino

as 2nd Mounted Policeman

Bruce Bahrenburg

as Sgt. P. Halloran

Mort Freeman

as Street Singer

Massimo Liti

as Young Macrò

Jay Zeely

as Foreman

Greg Anthony

as Bar Room Patron (uncredited)

Matteo Cafiso

as Boy in Park (uncredited)

Nunzio Giuliani

as Speakeasy Drum Player (uncredited)

Nelson Camp

as Newspaper Salesman (uncredited)

Dario Iori

as Speakeasy Banjo Player (uncredited)

Ole Jorgensen

as Speakeasy Percussionist (uncredited)

Francesca Leone

as David Bailey's Girlfriend (uncredited)

Chuck Low

as Deborah Gelly's Father (uncredited)

Ron Nummi

as Waiter (uncredited)

Nicola Roberto

as Speakeasy Trumpet Player (uncredited)

Gianni Sanjust

as Speakeasy Clarinet Player (uncredited)

Alex Serra

as Speakeasy Vocalist (uncredited)

Susan Spafford

as Nurse (uncredited)

Mark Frazer

as Pimp (uncredited)

Crew of Once Upon a Time in America

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