In the film Sleepers (1996), Brad Pitt plays Michael Sullivan, Jason Patric plays Lorenzo ‘Shakes’ Carcaterra, and Robert De Niro plays Father Bobby. It follows four friends whose childhood trauma leads to a complex revenge plot.
Main cast
- Michael SullivanBrad PittMain
- Lorenzo ‘Shakes’ CarcaterraJason PatricMain
- Father BobbyRobert De NiroMain
- Tommy MarcanoBilly CrudupMain
- John ReillyRon EldardMain
- Carol MartinezMinnie DriverMain
- Richard ‘Sticks’ NixKevin BaconMain
- King BennyVittorio GassmanMain
- Young Michael SullivanJoe PerrinoMain
- Young Lorenzo ‘Shakes’ CarcaterraBrad RenfroMain
- Young Tommy MarcanoJonathan TuckerMain
- Young John ReillyGeoffrey WigdorMain
Supporting cast
- Fat CharlieFrank MedranoSupp
- CarlsonJohn SlatterySupp
- Judge WeirDavid S. HowardSupp
Guest & voice
- Young KevinDash MihokGuest
- RizzoWendell PierceGuest
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About this cast
Sleepers is a 1996 American crime drama film directed by Barry Levinson. Based on Lorenzo Carcaterra’s controversial book, it stars Brad Pitt, Jason Patric, and Robert De Niro in a story of childhood friendship, abuse, and revenge spanning decades.
FAQs
Who plays Michael Sullivan in Sleepers?
Brad Pitt plays the adult Michael Sullivan, with Joe Perrino portraying the character as a teenager.
Who plays Father Bobby in Sleepers?
Robert De Niro plays Father Bobby, the priest who helps the boys after their reform school ordeal.
Is Sleepers based on a true story?
The film is adapted from Lorenzo Carcaterra’s book, which he claims is true. However, many details have been disputed and the veracity of the story remains controversial.
What year was Sleepers released?
Sleepers was released in 1996.
Who directed Sleepers?
The film was directed by Barry Levinson.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026