Hero, A person possessing several kinds of strength and acts in a determined manner to overcome the opposition is over to help others. Is this an accurate definition of Frank Serpico? If I could think of one word to describe Frank Serpico it would be persistent. Throughout his controversy, hardships, and losses he still worked diligently to accomplish his goal. He lost the women he loved, friends, partners, co-workers, and put his life on the line to defend a sense of morality that didn't even physically benefit him. Serpico fought hard for his cause, despite the discouragement he received from nearly ever person he came in contact with. If that isn't acting in a determined manner to overcome the opposition I don't know what is.

Serpico's biggest strength was obviously his persistence, but he had many others, as well. He possessed mental strength, as well as the physical strength to kick some serious booty. The scene where he puts the smack down on the cop who threatens to "cut his tongue out" was pure gold. Serpico even fits the all-American fictional action hero in some aspects. I wouldn't be surprised to see "Serpico 2: Eat lead dirtball" (In fact we might want to mention this, to our boys in Hollywood). Action heroes do exist in today's world (well the 70's, is close enough), and Frank Serpico is an excellent example.

It seams that in today's world, heroism has been glamorized to the point where we loose touch with who the real hero's are. Frank Serpico is a hero. In our class description, in the dictionary definition, and in just about anyone's perception.