The series presents a unique insight into the workings of 'La Costa Nostra' and the law enforcement agencies that combat it.

Combining a historical narrative with first hand testimony the series will create a comprehensive account of the recent history of the five families in New York and the successful battle by the FBI to destroy them.

At the height of their power the 'Godfathers' exerted power from the Streets of New York to the seat of Government in the White House. The decline of their power within the last decade provides the ideal opportunity to create the definitive version of how the Godfathers rode to power in America and how the US Government ignored the warning until it was almost too late.

This particular film tells the dramatic story of John Gotti's (pictured) rapid rise to power intertwined with contemporary accounts from high ranking figures from other families.

Gotti flaunts his power and celebrity, features on the cover of Time Magazine and becomes the most publicly visable gangster since Al Capone.