The Dukes (2007)
A nostalgic Doo Wop comedy-crime-drama about former teen stars who attempt a desperate heist to survive — and end up finding themselves.
The Dukes - Movie Information
The Dukes - Plot
The Dukes, a Doo Wop group, were on top of the world at 17, now are struggling for survival in 2008. Their manager is desperately trying to get them work but is met with failure at every turn. Finally pushed to the extreme, they pull a heist only a fool would attempt, which leaves them even more desperate. When all seems lost, they find themselves.
Where to Watch The Dukes
Looking for where to watch The Dukes?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
The Dukes - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Robert Davi
Main Cast
- Robert Davi
- Chazz Palminteri
- Elya Baskin
- Eloise DeJoria
- Patrick Cupo
- Peter Bogdanovich
- Frank D'Amico
- Melora Hardin
- Miriam Margolyes
- Bruce Weitz
Writers
- Robert Davi
- James Andronica
Producers
- Robert Davi
- Christopher J. Corabi
- Jim Cypherd
The Dukes - FAQs
What is The Dukes about?
The Dukes follows a Doo Wop group who were teenage stars but are now struggling decades later. Their manager can't find them work, so they resort to pulling off a harebrained heist. Things go from bad to worse, but through the chaos they rediscover who they really are. It's a bittersweet mix of comedy, crime, and heart.
Does The Dukes have a happy ending?
The Dukes leans into redemption. After their ill-fated heist leaves them in an even deeper hole, the group ultimately finds a sense of purpose and identity they'd lost over the years. It's not a fairy-tale resolution, but it carries genuine emotional warmth and a satisfying sense of closure for these lovable underdogs.
Where can you watch The Dukes?
You can rent or buy The Dukes on Google Play Movies and YouTube. It's not currently on a major subscription streaming service, but both platforms make it easy to watch on demand at a reasonable price.
Who are the main actors in The Dukes?
The Dukes boasts a fun ensemble led by Robert Davi and Chazz Palminteri. You'll also see Elya Baskin, Eloise DeJoria, Patrick Cupo, Peter Bogdanovich, Melora Hardin, Miriam Margolyes, and Bruce Weitz rounding out the cast with plenty of personality.
Did Robert Davi direct and star in The Dukes?
Yes — Robert Davi wore multiple hats on this one. He directed the film, co-wrote the screenplay with James Andronica, produced it alongside Christopher J. Corabi and Jim Cypherd, and stars as Danny DePasquale. It's very much a passion project, and that personal investment shows throughout the film.
What genre is The Dukes?
The Dukes blends comedy, crime, drama, and music into one nostalgic package. The Doo Wop backdrop gives it a musical soul, while the heist storyline brings crime-comedy energy. Underneath the laughs there's genuine dramatic weight, making it a genre-blending film that's hard to pin down in the best way.
Is The Dukes based on a true story?
The Dukes is not based on a specific true story, but it draws heavily on the real-world nostalgia and decline of Doo Wop culture. The story of aging performers struggling to stay relevant resonates with the experiences of many real musicians from that era, giving the film an authentic emotional core.
What are some movies similar to The Dukes?
If you enjoy The Dukes, you might also like In the Mix (2005), Airheads (1994), Things Change (1988), The High Note (2020), or Thick as Thieves (1999). They share similar themes of music, crime, or characters chasing a second chance — all with a comedic or dramatic twist.
More About The Dukes
Explore further details about The Dukes on these trusted resources.