‘Playing for the Mob’ Review: ‘A First Class Effort by ESPN’ Says Herald

Written by :

Gilbert Horowitz

Published on :

6 October, 2014

The Boston Herald seemingly has given “Playing for the Mob” two thumbs up.

The ESPN docu-drama is narrated by Ray Liotta, chronicling the Boston College point-shaving scandal of the late 1970s, carried out by mobster Henry Hill, Liotta's "Goodfellas" character, and his various associates.

The dark mark in history of sports occurred when underworld figures recruited and bribed Boston College players to ensure they would not cover spreads in specific games.

The Herald says of the film: “No fools, the directors liberally incorporate clips from "Goodfellas" to punctuate the proceedings, giving the 77-minute docu (which will play with limited commercials) a cinematic feel. The only clunky note is a staged reunion between Hill and one of his former colleagues, which feels tacked on and unnecessary.”

The Boston paper couldn’t help but barb the 24-hour sports network just a bit while recommending the film, due to air Tuesday October 7th at 9pm ET on ESPN.

“For ESPN, whose journalism in terms of independence from the major sports leagues it covers has occasionally come under fire, "30 for 30" represents a highly effective prestige-building exercise. On those terms, a first-class effort like "Playing for the Mob" can only help run up the score.”