Actor Robert Davi writes, directs, and stars in The Dukes, a light-hearted caper about four aging performers, doo-wop sensations of their time, and their struggles to overcome a lack of meaningful work and wages. In 1963, Danny DePasquale (Davi) and George Zucco (Chazz Palminteri) were on top of the world with hit singles and sold-out houses. Now, they don't have enough money to see a decent dentist. And at their age, they need one!

After the last of many attempts to utilize their singing talents fails, the Dukes team up with friends Armond (Frank D'Amico) and Murph (Elya Baskin) for a different type of gig—one that involves a safe and a lot of gold! With help from their manager Lou Fiola (Peter Bogdanovich) and inspired by their resilient Aunt Vee (Miriam Margolyes), the men attempt to regain their former wealth and glory by robbing a dental facility of its dental crown booty—thirty-five pounds of gold. The result is an adventure that changes the direction of their lives for good.

Davi, a descendent of Italian immigrants, grew up watching and was influenced by the work of Italian directors such as Federico Fellini. The Dukes is his directorial debut and serves as a tribute to the endearing musical legacy of doo-wop. The genre has its roots in "a capella" (Italian for "church style") performance and in African-American musical expressions like jazz and rhythm and blues, where instruments would often take a back seat to expressive background and foreground vocals. With strong harmonies and no need for electrical power or hefty instruments, doo-wop groups could travel anywhere in search of an audience, from sidewalks to subway stations and school houses. Featuring silky-smooth arrangements and sentimental lyrics, doo-wop grew in popularity through the 1950s and '60s and has left an indelible mark on the history of rock and roll music, continuing to remain popular today.

Both Davi and Palminteri bring an earnestness to The Dukes that makes the film appealing. In seeing evidence of their vices as well as their virtues, we can sympathize with the men as they wrestle with life in the twilight of their careers. As the story progresses, they realize that life is less about stuff than it is about the family and friends around them. Fame is fleeting. The crowds, lights, and glamour come and go without much warning. When the last song is sung, what is left? Certainly, we can be content in God's purpose for our lives. Ultimately, we do what we do for an audience of one.

There are positive messages coursing through The Dukes. At one point in the film, Aunt Vee encourages Danny, saying "you got a gift that's only good when you give it away." At the heart of every true performer, including Danny, is a desire to share the power of music with others. Whether to hundreds in a packed auditorium or to his young, smiling son sitting alone beyond the stage, it's a gift being given away.

The Dukes is rated PG-13 by the MPAA for "brief sexuality and drug references." Palminteri's character cavorts in bed with a woman he has barely met. Although tactless, the scene is brief and does not include any direct nudity. The Lord's name is used in vain twice in the film and in earnest at least once as one character prays in desperation at the possibility of getting caught.

The Dukes eventually find meaning in their lives the right way—through honesty, hard work, and perseverance, allowing for a much-needed trip to the dentist and a new tune to add to life's repertoire.