“The Irishman,” a 2019 film directed by renowned filmmaker Martin Scorsese, captivated audiences worldwide with its intricate storytelling and compelling performances. Based on the non-fiction book “I Heard You Paint Houses” by Charles Brandt, the film delves into the life of Frank Sheeran and his connections to the infamous Jimmy Hoffa. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of the book and movie, highlighting their key elements, interesting trivia, and relevant themes.

Book Summary: “I Heard You Paint Houses”

“I Heard You Paint Houses,” written by former prosecutor and investigator Charles Brandt, is a detailed exploration into the life and crimes of Frank Sheeran, a reputed hitman for the Bufalino crime family. The book, published in 2004, is based on years of interviews that Brandt conducted with Sheeran before his death in 2003.

The narrative follows Sheeran’s journey from his early days as a truck driver to his rise as a trusted hitman within the Mafia. The seemingly innocuous title, “I Heard You Paint Houses,” is actually Mafia slang for contract killings and the ensuing blood splatter on walls and floors.

The book’s main focus is Sheeran’s alleged involvement in the disappearance and presumed murder of former Teamsters leader Jimmy Hoffa. The narrative provides a chilling account of Hoffa’s final moments, as told by Sheeran himself.

Movie Summary: “The Irishman”

“The Irishman,” released in 2019, is a cinematic adaptation of Brandt’s book. Directed by Martin Scorsese, the film features an ensemble cast that includes Robert De Niro as Frank Sheeran, Al Pacino as Jimmy Hoffa, and Joe Pesci as Russell Bufalino.

The film stays largely true to the book, tracing Sheeran’s life from his humble beginnings to his ascendance in the Mafia hierarchy. It paints a vivid picture of organized crime in mid-20th century America and delves into the inner workings of the Mafia and its complex relationships with politics and labor unions.

One of the film’s defining features is its use of de-aging technology to depict its characters across different time periods. This pivotal storytelling device allows the audience to follow Sheeran’s life journey over several decades.

When and Where Does the Story Take Place?

Both “I Heard You Paint Houses” and “The Irishman” span several decades, from the 1950s through the early 2000s. The majority of the narrative unfolds in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a key location for the Bufalino crime family.

The story also takes us through various parts of the United States, reflecting the wide reach of the Mafia’s activities. These locations include Detroit, Michigan, where the presumed murder of Jimmy Hoffa takes place, and New York City, a significant hub for organized crime.

Film Locations: “The Irishman”

While the narrative of “The Irishman” traverses various locales, the film was primarily shot in and around New York City. This included the boroughs of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, along with some shooting in Suffolk County on Long Island.

Several scenes were filmed at recognizable landmarks, such as the Albert’s Garden in Manhattan, the Harlem Meer in Central Park, and the Umberto’s Clam House in Little Italy. These authentic locations lend a significant degree of realism to the film, transporting viewers to the streets of mid-20th century America.

Who’s Who in “I Heard You Paint Houses” and Its Movie Adaptation

“I Heard You Paint Houses” and “The Irishman” feature a fascinating array of real-life characters, each contributing to the complex narrative. Here are brief profiles of the key figures:

• Frank Sheeran:  Known as ‘The Irishman,’ Sheeran is the central figure of the book and movie. Portrayed by Robert De Niro in the film, Sheeran is a veteran turned hitman who claims to have killed Jimmy Hoffa.
• Jimmy Hoffa:  Al Pacino brings to life Hoffa, the charismatic leader of the Teamsters union who mysteriously disappeared in 1975. Hoffa’s combative personality and eventual downfall are central to the narrative.
• Russell Bufalino:  Joe Pesci plays Bufalino, the head of the Northeastern Pennsylvania crime family. Bufalino is depicted as a powerful figure in the Mafia structure, having significant influence over Sheeran’s actions.
• Bill Bufalino:  As Hoffa’s attorney and cousin to Russell, Bill Bufalino, portrayed by Ray Romano, plays a key role in navigating Hoffa’s legal troubles.

Memorable Quotes from “The Irishman”

“The Irishman” is filled with memorable dialogue that captures the essence of its characters and their world. Some noteworthy quotes include:

• “I heard you paint houses.” – The first line spoken by Hoffa to Sheeran, setting the stage for their relationship.
• “It’s what it is.” – A recurring phrase reflecting the characters’ acceptance of the harsh realities of their lives.
• “You don’t know how fast time goes by until you get there.” – Sheeran’s poignant reflection on aging and his past actions.

Soundtrack by Robbie Robertson: Biography and Other Works

Robbie Robertson, a Canadian musician best known as the lead guitarist and songwriter for The Band, composed the original score for “The Irishman.” Born in 1943, Robertson has had an illustrious career in music, contributing to numerous film soundtracks.

Robertson’s score for “The Irishman” enhances the film’s narrative, setting the mood for each scene. His other notable works include the soundtracks for “The Wolf of Wall Street,” “Casino,” and “The Departed,” all of which were also directed by Scorsese.

Curiosities about “I Heard You Paint Houses” and “The Irishman”

Both “I Heard You Paint Houses” and “The Irishman” have generated a wealth of interesting trivia. Here are a few tidbits:

• The phrase “I heard you paint houses,” is mob lingo for contract killing. The response, “Yes, and I do my own carpentry too,” implies that the killer also disposes of the body.
• Despite its 209-minute runtime, “The Irishman” features only one instance of on-screen violence: the murder of Jimmy Hoffa.
• The film is Scorsese’s longest feature to date, and Netflix’s longest original production.

Tips for Cosplay and Dressing like Frank Sheeran and Jimmy Hoffa

Fans of “The Irishman” can pay homage to their favorite characters through cosplay or themed attire. Here are some tips for dressing like Frank Sheeran and Jimmy Hoffa:

• Frank Sheeran:  Opt for a 1970s-style suit, preferably in earth tones. Accessorize with aviator glasses and a gold watch. For added authenticity, include a Teamsters union pin on the lapel.
• Jimmy Hoffa:  Hoffa was known for his flamboyant style. Choose a bold 1970s-style suit in bright colors, paired with a wide tie. Complete the look with a pair of horn-rimmed glasses.

Biography of Charles Brandt, the Author of “I Heard You Paint Houses”

Charles Brandt, born in New York City in 1942, is a former prosecutor and investigator. He has written three books, with “I Heard You Paint Houses” being his most famous work.

Brandt’s legal background and investigative skills were instrumental in developing his writing career. His ability to extract detailed and intimate confessions from Sheeran allowed him to craft a compelling narrative that has captivated readers worldwide.

Charles Brandt’s 5 Best Works

While “I Heard You Paint Houses” is Brandt’s most well-known book, he has written several other works that delve into the criminal underworld. These include:

• “We’re Going to Win This Thing: The Shocking Frame-up of a Mafia Crime Buster”
• “The Right to Remain Silent”
• “A Simple Act of Murder: November 22, 1963”

5 Other Media Adaptations by Martin Scorsese

Martin Scorsese, the director of “The Irishman,” is known for his distinctive storytelling and cinematic style. Here are five other notable films by Scorsese:

• “Taxi Driver”
• “Raging Bull”
• “Goodfellas”
• “The Departed”
• “Wolf Of Wall Street”

10 Similar Movies to “The Irishman”

If you enjoyed “The Irishman,” here are ten similar films that explore themes of organized crime, power, and corruption:

• “Goodfellas”
• “Once Upon a Time in America”
• “Casino”
• “The Godfather”
• “Scarface”
• “American Gangster”
• “Gangs of New York”
• “Donnie Brasco”
• “The Departed”
• “A Bronx Tale”

Book Club Questions for “I Heard You Paint Houses”

If you’re part of a book club or simply enjoy discussing literature, here are some questions to spark conversations about “I Heard You Paint Houses”:

• How does the book shed light on the inner workings of the Mafia?
• What does the book reveal about the relationship between organized crime and labor unions in mid-20th century America?
• How does Sheeran’s military service in World War II influence his later actions?
• How does the book portray the relationship between Sheeran and Hoffa?
• Does the book successfully convince you of Sheeran’s claimed involvement in Hoffa’s disappearance?

10 Similar Novels to “I Heard You Paint Houses”

If “I Heard You Paint Houses” intrigued you, here are ten similar novels that explore crime, corruption, and redemption:

• “The Godfather” by Mario Puzo
• “The Day of the Jackal” by Frederick Forsyth
• “American Tabloid” by James Ellroy
• “L.A. Confidential” by James Ellroy
• “Mystic River” by Dennis Lehane
• “The Big Sleep” by Raymond Chandler
• “The Maltese Falcon” by Dashiell Hammett
• “The Silence of the Lambs” by Thomas Harris
• “In Cold Blood” by Truman Capote
• “The Firm” by John Grisham

Parent Guide for “The Irishman”

“The Irishman” is a deeply engaging film that also contains mature themes and violent content. Parents should consider these elements when deciding to watch the film with their children. Here is a guide to help you make an informed decision:

• Age Recommendation:  The film is rated R, and it may not be suitable for young audiences due to its violent scenes and strong language.
• Violence:  The film includes depictions of organized crime, including murder and physical violence.
• Language:  The film contains strong language, including profanity.
• Adult Themes:  The film explores mature themes such as mortality, regret, and the consequences of one’s actions.

Buying Guide and Gift Ideas

For fans of “The Irishman” and “I Heard You Paint Houses,” there are plenty of gift ideas that would be warmly received. Here are a few suggestions:

• A copy of “I Heard You Paint Houses” for those who haven’t yet read the book.
• “The Irishman” on DVD or Blu-ray for those who wish to add it to their movie collection.
• Posters or artwork inspired by “The Irishman” for cinema lovers.
• A “Teamsters” t-shirt or pin, reflecting the union that plays a central role in the story.
• A book of Martin Scorsese’s filmography for cinema buffs.

Conclusion

“The Irishman” and “I Heard You Paint Houses” offer a riveting exploration of organized crime, political corruption, and the human condition. Whether you choose to read the book or watch the film, the story of Frank Sheeran and Jimmy Hoffa will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact. Enjoy a movie night at home, start an engaging discussion at your next book club meeting, or dress up as your favorite character for a themed event. Whichever path you choose, immerse yourself in the intriguing world of “The Irishman” and “I Heard You Paint Houses.”