Antagonist

Character Role Analysis

Frank Costello

Frank is the first character we hear in this movie, which might make us inclined to like him. But it's not long before our sympathies go to Billy Costigan instead. After all, Billy's the one who's trying to do a little good in the world, and Frank is the one who is stomping on anyone he needs to in order to get his way.

Sure, fans of movies like Scarface might admire Frank's ambition and willingness to do whatever it takes. And sure, people might someday give up on law and order altogether and embrace anarchy. But until that happens, dudes like Frank Costello are going to remain our antagonists.