Robert De Niro is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation. His versatility and ability to delve deeply into his characters have made him a favorite of directors and audiences alike. Over a career spanning more than five decades, De Niro has delivered numerous iconic performances. This list delves into the ten best movies starring Robert De Niro, each exemplifying his range and talent.
1. Raging Bull (1980)
Directed by Martin Scorsese, “Raging Bull” is often hailed as one of the greatest films ever made. De Niro stars as Jake LaMotta, a troubled boxer whose self-destructive tendencies and jealousy destroy his career and relationships. De Niro’s performance is nothing short of transformative; he gained a significant amount of weight to portray LaMotta in his later years, capturing the physical and emotional turmoil of the character. His dedication to the role earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.
2. Taxi Driver (1976)
Another collaboration with Scorsese, “Taxi Driver” features De Niro as Travis Bickle, a mentally unstable Vietnam War veteran who becomes a taxi driver in New York City. The film is a dark exploration of urban decay and isolation, with De Niro delivering one of his most memorable performances. His portrayal of Bickle’s descent into madness, culminating in the infamous “You talkin’ to me?” scene, has become a cultural touchstone. The role earned De Niro an Oscar nomination and solidified his status as a leading actor of his generation.
3. The Godfather Part II (1974)
In Francis Ford Coppola’s epic continuation of “The Godfather,” De Niro plays the young Vito Corleone, a role originally portrayed by Marlon Brando in the first film. De Niro’s performance is a masterclass in subtlety and power, capturing the rise of Vito from a Sicilian immigrant to a powerful mafia don. His work earned him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, making him one of the few actors to win an Oscar for a role entirely performed in a foreign language (Italian, in this case).
4. Goodfellas (1990)
“Goodfellas,” directed by Martin Scorsese, is often considered one of the greatest crime films of all time. De Niro stars as James “Jimmy the Gent” Conway, a charismatic yet ruthless gangster. The film chronicles the rise and fall of Henry Hill (played by Ray Liotta) and his life in the mob, with De Niro’s character playing a crucial role. De Niro’s performance is compelling, balancing charm and menace effortlessly. The film received widespread acclaim and multiple Academy Award nominations.
5. The Deer Hunter (1978)
Directed by Michael Cimino, “The Deer Hunter” is a harrowing exploration of the impact of the Vietnam War on a group of friends from a small Pennsylvania town. De Niro stars as Michael, a steelworker who is deeply affected by his experiences in Vietnam. The film is noted for its powerful performances, particularly De Niro’s portrayal of a man struggling with trauma and the bonds of friendship. The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and De Niro’s performance remains a high point in his career.
6. Heat (1995)
In Michael Mann’s crime thriller “Heat,” De Niro stars opposite Al Pacino for the first time. De Niro plays Neil McCauley, a professional thief whose meticulous planning and discipline make him a formidable adversary for Pacino’s obsessive detective, Vincent Hanna. The film is renowned for its intense action sequences and the climactic diner scene where the two legendary actors share the screen. De Niro’s performance is cool and calculated, providing a perfect counterbalance to Pacino’s fiery energy.
7. Cape Fear (1991)
Martin Scorsese’s remake of the 1962 thriller “Cape Fear” features De Niro as Max Cady, a menacing ex-convict seeking revenge on the lawyer who put him behind bars. De Niro’s portrayal of Cady is terrifying, exuding a raw, unhinged energy that makes the character one of his most memorable villains. His commitment to the role included significant physical transformation and learning a Southern accent. The performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
8. Casino (1995)
Another collaboration with Scorsese, “Casino” sees De Niro as Sam “Ace” Rothstein, a meticulous and ambitious casino operator. The film delves into the world of Las Vegas casinos, organized crime, and corruption. De Niro’s performance is commanding, portraying Rothstein’s rise to power and subsequent downfall with nuance and intensity. The film is a gripping exploration of greed and betrayal, with De Niro at the center of its narrative.
9. The King of Comedy (1982)
In “The King of Comedy,” directed by Martin Scorsese, De Niro takes on the role of Rupert Pupkin, an aspiring comedian with delusions of grandeur. The film is a dark comedy and a satirical take on celebrity culture. De Niro’s performance is both tragic and comical, capturing Pupkin’s desperate need for fame and validation. The role showcases De Niro’s versatility, as he navigates the fine line between comedy and pathos. Despite initially receiving mixed reviews, the film has since gained a cult following.
10. Silver Linings Playbook (2012)
In David O. Russell’s “Silver Linings Playbook,” De Niro plays Pat Solitano Sr., the father of Bradley Cooper’s character, who is dealing with bipolar disorder. The film is a blend of comedy, drama, and romance, and De Niro’s performance adds depth and warmth to the narrative. His portrayal of a father trying to understand and support his son, while dealing with his own obsessive-compulsive tendencies, earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. The film was a critical and commercial success, showcasing De Niro’s continued ability to deliver powerful performances in varied roles.
Conclusion
Robert De Niro’s illustrious career is marked by a series of remarkable performances that have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. From his early collaborations with Martin Scorsese to his later roles in diverse genres, De Niro has consistently demonstrated his range and dedication to his craft. Each of the ten films listed above showcases a different aspect of his talent, whether it be his ability to portray deeply troubled individuals, his commanding presence in crime dramas, or his knack for dark comedy. De Niro’s legacy as one of the greatest actors of all time is firmly established, with these films standing as testament to his extraordinary career.