Charlie Lucky

We learn today that a gangster film based on the life and times of Charles “Lucky” Luciano is in the works. Thanks to the professionals at Variety for the following news.

Concert and sports promoter Frank J. Russo has acquired “Charlie Lucky,” a script by Joe Cortese that chronicles the criminal career of mobster Charles “Lucky” Luciano. “Charlie Lucky” covers Luciano’s rise from street hood to architect of the organized crime syndicate that ruled major U.S. cities. Pic will also depict Luciano’s feuds with mob rival Vito Genovese and New York Gov. Thomas Dewey.

Dewey got Luciano convicted on trumped-up prostitution charges, then enlisted him to aid the U.S. during WWII. Luciano helped Gen. George Patton find the easiest route through Sicilyand helped clear German saboteurs out of New York harbor. The script purports that Luciano, Frank Costello and Meyer Lansky tried and nearly succeeded in getting Dewey elected president in 1948. Dewey then pardoned Luciano — and deported him back to Italy.

From rags to riches to political advisor? Luciano’s life is certainly one that lends itself to many stories, and should make for ideal subject matter in which to base a film. I am not a huge fan of mobster films, but a good one is always welcome. If I wanted to see people making a living through nefarious means, I would just visit my hometown. When industry dies, crime thrives ladies and gentlemen.

Not sure when this one is set to launch, but we will keep our ears to the ground for the details!