Vincent Pastore's role in Don Q further cements his reputation as one of the greats when it comes to portraying gritty, authentic Italian-American characters. Best known for his portrayal of Salvatore "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero on The Sopranos, Pastore brings depth and humor to “Smash” in Don Q, a character who finds himself intertwined in Al Quinto’s eccentric quest to bring Little Italy back to its former glory. In the film, which is a crime-comedy inspired by Don Quixote, Pastore’s character is part of a world that mixes fantasy with the familiar codes of mob culture, creating a unique blend of satire and homage to both classic literature and New York’s Italian-American roots.
Speaking with Pastore was a true pleasure. Despite the difficulties caused by a spotty internet connection, his charm and humor shone through as he shared insights about the film and its ensemble cast, including powerhouse talents like Armand Assante and Federico Castelluccio, another Sopranos alum. Pastore reflected fondly on the camaraderie of the Don Q set, and his natural connection to New York’s storytelling traditions was palpable. He also offered his unique perspective on what it’s like to revisit familiar themes in his acting—loyalty, community, and a touch of the old-school tough-guy charm that his fans know and love.
Don Q, directed by Claudio Bellante, releases digitally on November 1, giving audiences a fresh take on Cervantes’ classic tale with a distinctly modern, mob-centric twist. With its mix of humor and heartfelt homage, it’s a must-watch for fans of Pastore and anyone who appreciates a story about a man on a mission, however unconventional his methods may be.
Jessie Hobson