Another GEM by Sergio Leone.
What a fabulous journey back and forth between the very beginning and middle of 20th century United States.
Everything about this movie is perfect:
Story, costumes, setting, script, music, pace, acting, cast, FRIENDSHIP, ambition and, ultimately, BETRAYAL (utterly unexpected, but 100% realistic).
It can easily be considered one of the best full-length films of all time.
It wonderfully depicts the American society (particularly amongst the poorer classes) before and after the two world wars and during the infamous prohibition era.
At times, it feels like a strange-but-fascinating kind of modern western picture, especially when the protagonists were in their teen years (or even younger).
It's endearing; it's true to life; it's a GEM!