Avenging Angelo (2002)
Avenging Angelo (2002) is a crime-comedy-drama that blends mafia intrigue, dark humor, and an unlikely romance. Directed by Martyn Burke, the film stars Sylvester Stallone as Frankie Delano, a loyal bodyguard determined to protect and avenge the daughter of his murdered mob boss, Angelo Allieghieri (Anthony Quinn).
The story begins with the assassination of Angelo, a powerful yet kind-hearted Mafia don who is betrayed and killed by a rival gang. His devoted right-hand man, Frankie Delano (Stallone), narrowly escapes the attack and vows to find Angelo’s daughter to keep her safe. Unknown to her true heritage, Jennifer Barrett (Madeleine Stowe) has lived an ordinary suburban life, completely unaware that she is the child of a notorious mobster.
Frankie tracks Jennifer down and breaks the shocking news: her real father was Angelo Allieghieri, and he was just murdered. At first, Jennifer refuses to believe him, dismissing Frankie as a delusional stranger. However, after she begins receiving threats and attempts on her life, the truth becomes impossible to ignore.
As Frankie becomes her protector, the two develop a complicated relationship. Frankie is a quiet, loyal soldier haunted by his past, while Jennifer is independent, witty, and spirited—completely unprepared for the violent world she has suddenly been thrust into. Despite their differences, they grow closer, with moments of humor and tenderness contrasting the film’s crime-driven tension.
Determined to avenge Angelo’s death, Frankie and Jennifer begin their own investigation. They uncover that Angelo’s betrayal came from within his circle — orchestrated by Lucio Malatesta (Harry Van Gorkum), a ruthless gangster with ambitions to take over Angelo’s empire. The search for justice leads them through a web of deception, hidden loyalties, and long-buried family secrets.
In the film’s emotional climax, Jennifer learns the full truth about her father’s legacy and the sacrifices he made to protect her from his violent world. Frankie, risking his own life, takes revenge on Angelo’s killers, fulfilling his oath.
By the end, Jennifer accepts both her heritage and her love for Frankie, finding peace amid the chaos. Frankie, finally able to let go of his guilt and duty, walks away from the mob life with her.
