Mob Stories: The Big Guy (Frank Cotroni) (2003)

Mob Stories: The Big Guy (Frank Cotroni) is a gripping documentary that delves into the intriguing life of notorious mobster Frank Santos Cotroni, known in underworld circles as “Le Gros” (French for “The Big Guy”) and “Il Cice” (Italian for the tender, life-giving core at the center of a hard nut).

Born in Montreal, Cotroni’s upbringing was marked by adversity. As the youngest of six Cotroni children, he navigated a world where crime and violence were woven into the fabric of existence. His criminal journey led him to serve more than half his adult life behind bars, with some of his most notorious actions occurring in the 1980s. Among these was the orchestration of five underworld killings, including one at the Seaway Hotel on Toronto’s waterfront.

The documentary paints a vivid portrait of this enigmatic figure, tracing his path from the rough streets of Montreal to his numerous stints in prison. Through interviews, archival footage, and expert analysis, viewers gain insight into the complexities of Cotroni’s character. His tough exterior belied a man who operated in the shadows, pulling strings and making life-altering decisions within the criminal underworld.

Mob Stories: The Big Guy provides a unique glimpse into the life of Frank Cotroni, capturing both the brutality of his actions and the human vulnerabilities that lurked beneath the surface. As the narrative unfolds, we witness the interplay of power, loyalty, and survival in a world where trust is scarce and betrayal is a constant threat.

Whether you’re fascinated by true crime or drawn to the psychology of those who inhabit the fringes of society, this documentary offers a compelling exploration of Frank Cotroni’s legacy. His story serves as a cautionary tale, a reminder that even the toughest exteriors can conceal intricate layers of humanity and darkness.