The mob infiltrates Hollywood through Al Capone's underling

In the early 20th century, organized crime began to intertwine with the film industry in the United States, particularly in Hollywood. This connection can be traced back to the Prohibition era, which fostered the rise of crime syndicates like The Outfit in Chicago and the Mafia in New York. As the film industry was taking shape, figures such as Al Capone sought to expand their influence, leading to the dispatch of Johnny Roselli to Hollywood. Roselli quickly established connections with major industry players, including Harry Cohn of Columbia Pictures, marking the mob's first significant stake in a major studio.

The documentary series 'Hollywood Crime Story: The Mob Takes Over the Movies' explores this complex relationship, detailing how mobsters like Benjamin 'Bugsy' Siegel and Mickey Cohen became intertwined with Hollywood's elite. Siegel's arrival in Hollywood saw him mingling with stars and moguls, while Cohen, who had a criminal background from a young age, became a notorious figure in the industry. The series recounts various incidents, including a hit put out on Screen Actors Guild president James Cagney, showcasing the violent lengths to which mobsters would go to exert control over the film industry.

As the narrative progresses into the late 1960s and early 1980s, the focus shifts to a new generation of mobsters who operated more discreetly, using boardroom tactics rather than overt violence. Figures like Wasserman and Korshack, part of the so-called Supermob, exerted significant influence over Hollywood's operations, from casting to funding. Their methods reflected a shift in organized crime's approach, as they leveraged business acumen to maintain control over the industry.

The release of 'The Godfather' had a profound impact on both filmmakers and criminals, as it romanticized the mob lifestyle, prompting real-life mobsters to emulate the film's grand depictions. This led to an increase in ostentatious displays of wealth and power among criminals. However, the intertwining of crime and Hollywood also led to tragic outcomes for many involved, as the pursuit of power and wealth often ended in violence and downfall. The documentary series highlights these stories, revealing the dark underbelly of an industry that has long been associated with glamour and success.