The Inception actor Tom Hardy has signed on to play the role of Al Capone in what could be the first film of a possible franchise. Here are five earlier performances tracing the life of the 1930s crime boss.
Take Five… Road to Perdition (2002)
Anthony LaPaglia gives an evocative single-scene performance as Capone. While it was ultimately axed from the film, it is worth seeking out in the deleted scenes on the DVD.
Take Four... The Untouchables (1987)
This big budget drama is set in 1930 and centres on US treasury agent Eliot Ness (Kevin Costner) and his team as they attempt to bring Al Capone to justice. Robert De Niro's Capone is viewed as the most theatrical portrayal of the crime boss yet.
Take Three… Capone (1975)
This is one of the more violent biopics of Capone with Ben Gazzara giving a tense performance in the lead role. Look out for a young Sylvester Stallone making an appearance as Frank "The Enforcer" Nitti.
Take Two… Al Capone (1959)
Rod Steiger plays the title role as the film traces the rise of Capone to Chicago crime kingpin. Steiger delivers a dynamic performance as Capone, showcasing both his charm and violence.
Take One… Scarface: The Shame of a Nation (1932)
The central character's name may be Tony Camonte (Paul Muni), but there was no doubt which real-life figure the film was based on. Interestingly, upon the film's release Capone was about to begin serving an 11-year jail stint for income tax evasion.
