BRUNO Sit down, Frank.
FRANK Bombing out a laundry service.
BRUNO For who? (nothing from Frank) This is not one of those times to not say.
FRANK For Whispers. The other Whispers.
BRUNO You know who owns the Cadillac Linen Service?
The Cadillac Linen Service — The Irishman
Frank, a hitman, is confronted by mob boss Russell Bufalino and his associate Bruno about a recent job. Frank bombed a laundry service, unaware that Bruno had a stake in the business. The scene highlights Frank's precarious position within the criminal underworld and his deference to higher authorities.
Format: Scene · Genre: Drama · Source: The Irishman · Author: Steven Zaillian · Characters: BRUNO, FRANK
About This Scene
This intense two-minute drama features two male characters, Bruno and Frank, both within the 45-55 age range. The scene unfolds as Bruno confronts Frank about a recent job: bombing a laundry service without realizing Bruno had a financial stake in the business. It powerfully illustrates the rigid hierarchy and perilous nature of the criminal underworld, highlighting Frank's vulnerability and need to defer to higher authorities.
Character Analysis
Frank is a hitman, tough and capable in his violent profession, yet clearly out of his depth when facing powerful mob figures like Bruno and Russell. His demeanor should convey a blend of self-preservation and a desperate attempt to show deference, despite his earlier mistake. Bruno, on the other hand, is a commanding mob boss, exuding quiet power and menace. He is shrewd and calculating, using the confrontation not just to chastise Frank, but to reassert his authority and test Frank's loyalty and obedience.
Why This Works for Auditions
This scene is an excellent choice for auditions due to its clear power dynamics and high stakes, providing ample opportunity for nuanced character work. The intense, contained confrontation allows actors to showcase their ability to convey internal conflict and controlled emotion, rather than relying on overt action. Its contemporary period and intense tone make it versatile for various dramatic roles requiring gravitas and a sense of underlying threat.
Best Suited For
This scene is ideally suited for character actors, especially those comfortable portraying villains, anti-heroes, or intense, tough individuals. Actors in the 45-55 age range, capable of demonstrating vulnerability beneath a hardened exterior or quiet, authoritative menace, will find this piece particularly effective. It works well for self-tapes, general practice, and even competition, distinguishing actors who can hold tension and convey complex relationships with minimal dialogue.
Performance Tips
Actors performing Frank should focus on conveying his internal anxiety and the delicate balance between his professional competence and his subordinate position. Subtle reactions to Bruno's words and a palpable sense of unease will be crucial. For Bruno, the key is controlled power; his delivery should be deliberate and unhurried, his menace emanating from a place of absolute authority rather than overt anger. Both actors should pay close attention to subtext and the unspoken threats inherent in the dialogue, allowing the silence to be as impactful as the words themselves.