RELIGION

'Black Mass,' movie about Whitey Bulger, anticipated in gangster's South Boston neighborhood

Associated Press
Published | Updated

In this image released by Warner Bros. Entertainment, Joel Edgerton portrays John Connolly, left, and Johnny Depp portrays Whitey Bulger in the Boston-set film, "Black Mass." (Claire Folger/Warner Bros. Entertainment via AP) (The Associated Press)

In this image released by Warner Bros. Entertainment, Johnny Depp portrays Whitey Bulger in the Boston-set film, "Black Mass." (Warner Bros. Entertainment via AP) (The Associated Press)

Anticipation is building in South Boston for a new movie about convicted gangster James "Whitey" Bulger (BUHL'-jur).

"Black Mass" is set for release in theaters Sept. 18. The movie starring Johnny Depp is based on the book by former Boston Globe reporters Dick Lehr and Gerard O'Neill.

It tells the story of Bulger's time as leader of an Irish-American gang and his corrupt relationship with former FBI agent John Connolly.

Some lifelong residents of South Boston said they can't wait for the movie, while newer residents said they're in no hurry to see it.

One investigator who pursued Bulger for years said he hopes the movie doesn't glorify Bulger. The now 86-year-old Bulger is serving life in prison after being convicted in a 2013 federal racketeering trial, including 11 killings.