This was Roberts' first major film role. Critics often praise his "top-notch" and "impressive" performance, noting his blend of intensity and nervous energy.

Dave wants to escape the criminal life and assimilate into mainstream America, leading to a deadly feud with his father.

Judd Hirsch delivers a "genuinely frightening" performance as the rejected heir, while Susan Sarandon adds vitality to her role as Rose. ⚠️ Critiques & Controversies King of the Gypsies (1978)

The film captures the 1970s New York aesthetic—raw, messy, and stylistically similar to The Godfather or Mean Streets .

King Zharko (Sterling Hayden) bypasses his violent son, Groffo (Judd Hirsch), to name his grandson, Dave (Eric Roberts), as his successor.