‘A Bronx Tale’

Directed by Robert De Niro in his feature debut and adapted by Chazz Palminteri from his play, this 1993 release brings an authenticityto the world of New York’s ethnic neighborhoods. Although burdened by two melodramatic story lines, it is appealing in its celebration of ambience and mood. The story revolves around the education of a young man named Calogero (Lillo Brancoto, right) in the primarily Italian Belmont section of the Bronx. De Niro plays his bus driver father. Palminteri (left), who plays a charismatic local hood, believes strongly that Calogero should go to college and leave the streets behind (Cinemax early Monday at 12:30 a.m.).