MOB SCENE

The paradox of Italian Americans making Mafia movies continues. The latest entry: Martin Scorsese’s “Casino.” He appears to justify his latest exercise in ethnic stereotyping with the mantle of morality: “I’m looking for the connection between God and man,” he sanctimoniously intones (“The Wisest Guy,” by Jack Mathews, Nov. 19).

Ironically, in Italy there is presently a historic, valiant attempt by officials and ordinary citizens to crush organized crime, once and for all, while here, for the sake of “making it,” those in a powerful medium whose parents or grandparents came from Italy blithely nourish the negative image that has plagued millions who share that heritage.

DAN D’AMELIO

Redlands