The first images from director Michaël R. Roskam’s (Bullhead) crime drama The Drop (formerly titled Animal Rescue) have landed online, offering us a first look at what will sadly be James Gandolfini’s final film.  Tom Hardy leads the pic as a former criminal and current bartender working at a place that serves as a money “drop” for local gangsters.  Gandolfini plays his cousin, and the story kicks into gear when Hardy's character rescues a pit bull puppy, only to become the target of the dog’s abusive and mentally unstable former owner.  Mystic River and Shutter Island author Dennis Lehane penned the screenplay, and the impressive cast also includes Noomi Rapace and Matthias Schoenaerts.

Hit the jump to check out the debut images.  The Drop opens in theaters on September 19th.

Via USA Today.