The Idolmaker 1980

In the sweltering summer of 1959, the dreams of Vincent “Vinnie” Vacarri, who is working as a waiter at his family’s cherished restaurant in the Bronx, come alive again. Surrounded by the familiar hustle and bustle, his longtime confidant and talented piano accompanist Gino “G.G.” Pilato brings exciting news of an upcoming recording session at a prestigious studio run by a fearsome mobster. Vinnie’s aspirations to become a singer-songwriter feel like a distant fantasy, especially as he confides in his mother about his insecurities regarding his looks and charm. However, witnessing the captivating saxophone performances by Tomaso DeLorusso at a nearby New Jersey nightclub ignites a newfound conviction in Vinnie. He believes he can elevate Tommy to a star.

Over the following months, Vinnie dedicates himself to nurturing Tommy’s talents under the stage name “Tommy Dee,” co-producing his debut album. As Tommy begins to gain recognition, Vinnie’s focus shifts toward securing a $10,000 loan from his estranged father, Frank, who has chosen wealth and transient relationships over family bonds. Though Vinnie’s approach is met with skepticism, he remains tenacious, even managing to persuade the influential disc jockey Walt Bennett to play Tommy’s debut single, “Here Is My Love.” When that doesn’t generate enough buzz, Vinnie resorts to a generous bribe to increase visibility.

With Tommy’s fame growing, Vinnie seizes the opportunity to persuade Brenda Roberts, the fashionable editor of Teen Scene magazine, to feature Tommy on their cover. As Tommy’s follow-up single “Sweet Little Lover” premieres on National Bandstand, he opts for an intimate connection with his audience rather than relying on rehearsed choreography. Amid the joys at the family restaurant, Vinnie’s frustration surfaces as he lashes out at a waiter and worries about Tommy’s reluctance to take acting lessons. Brenda, observing the scene unfold, becomes increasingly concerned for Tommy amidst the whirlwind surrounding him.

As events unfold, Vinnie makes a significant gesture towards his father by presenting a check as a symbol of his gratitude for the loan. The elder’s words of wisdom serve as a mixture of practical guidance and caution, urging Vinnie to stay grounded while also capitalizing on his investments by solidifying contracts with Tommy and broadening their clientele. Following this, Vinnie meets with Phil Delano, a major agent from I.A.A., committing to securing a movie role for Tommy.

With his father’s advice echoing in his mind, Vinnie begins to mentor busboy Guido Bevaloqua, renaming him “Caesare” and carefully fostering his talent to alleviate any jealousy from Tommy. As Caesare prepares for his first performance at a small club, Tommy offers encouragement, but Vinnie decides to prioritize Caesare’s development over co-headlining with his friend.

However, when Caesare steps onto the stage, anxiety overwhelms him, resulting in an early exit before finishing his number, provoking curiosity about whether he is truly ready for the spotlight. Outside, Vinnie reassures him that he will not abandon him as he grapples with his nerves. Following this rough start, Vinnie launches an inventive marketing campaign to promote Caesare across town, amplifying interest in him.

As Caesare’s next show approaches, Tommy’s irritation reaches a boiling point, prompting him to seek a role in a TV series that Vinnie had rejected him for. Their once-fruitful collaboration now stands on shaky ground, with both men facing respect issues as they rehearse.

In a bold moment, Caesare takes the stage, only to be overwhelmed by enthusiastic fans who rush to him during his performance of “Baby.” Despite the chaos, he perseveres, showcasing his determination to succeed. As Vinnie strolls through the streets of his youth, a wave of fatigue envelops him, but a heartfelt connection with his mother’s wisdom reignites his passion. He decides to return to the family restaurant where it all began.

Over time, Vinnie grows more confident in his abilities and invites Brenda to witness his artistic journey. Although she initially declines, fate brings them back together onstage, where Vinnie performs a deeply felt song titled “I Believe It Can Be Done.” His heartfelt rendition, coupled with Brenda’s approving nod, breathes new life into Vinnie’s ambitions, propelling him forward with purpose and affirmation.