
Honor Thy Father 1973
"The rise and fall of an organized crime family."
Dive into the turbulent world of organized crime with *Honor Thy Father (1973)*, directed by Paul Wendkos.
Director: Paul Wendkos
Cast










Frequently Asked Questions
What is Honor Thy Father (1973) about?
*Honor Thy Father (1973)* follows Bill Bonanno as he steps into his father's shoes after his sudden disappearance in 1964, thrusting him into the violent world of New York's Bonanno crime family. The film explores his struggle to hold onto power while rival mobsters circle, testing his loyalty and resolve in a high-stakes game of survival.
Who directed Honor Thy Father?
Paul Wendkos directed *Honor Thy Father (1973)*, bringing a sharp, dramatic touch to this made-for-TV crime saga.
Who stars in Honor Thy Father?
The film stars Joseph Bologna as Bill Bonanno, alongside Brenda Vaccaro, Richard S. Castellano, Raf Vallone, and Joe De Santis in pivotal roles.
Is Honor Thy Father (1973) worth watching?
*Honor Thy Father (1973)* is a compelling crime drama with strong performances and a tense narrative, making it a solid choice for fans of the genre. While it's unrated on IMDb, its ambitious storytelling and cast elevate it beyond typical TV movie fare.
How long is Honor Thy Father?
*Honor Thy Father (1973)* runs for 97 minutes.
About Honor Thy Father (1973) — A Crime Drama of Betrayal and Legacy
Dive into the turbulent world of organized crime with *Honor Thy Father (1973)*, directed by Paul Wendkos. This gripping TV movie adaptation of Gay Talese's controversial bestseller follows Joseph Bologna as Bill Bonanno, who inherits his father's shadowy "empire" after a sudden disappearance in 1964. As Bill navigates a treacherous landscape of betrayal and power struggles, he faces relentless pressure from rival factions hungry to seize control. The film brims with the gritty atmosphere of mid-century crime dramas, where loyalty is fragile and survival demands cunning.
With Brenda Vaccaro and Richard S. Castellano adding depth to an ensemble cast led by Bologna, *Honor Thy Father (1973)* blends crime, history, and raw drama into a tense, character-driven narrative. The story explores themes of family legacy, betrayal, and the cost of power, all set against the backdrop of New York's infamous Bonanno crime family. A tense, well-acted tale of ambition and downfall, it remains a standout in the genre.