Robert De Niro: His Best Movies Ranked
Hey guys! Let's dive into the incredible filmography of one of the greatest actors of all time, Robert De Niro. From intense dramas to hilarious comedies, De Niro has given us some unforgettable performances. I'm going to walk you through some of his best movies, highlighting what makes each one so special. Get ready for a trip down memory lane filled with iconic characters and moments.
The Godfather Part II (1974)
When discussing Robert De Niro's best performances, it's almost impossible not to start with The Godfather Part II. In this cinematic masterpiece directed by Francis Ford Coppola, De Niro takes on the role of a young Vito Corleone, a character previously portrayed by Marlon Brando. Taking on such an iconic role might seem daunting, but De Niro absolutely nails it, bringing a fresh yet familiar intensity to the character. He portrays the young Vito as a man navigating the treacherous world of organized crime in early 20th-century New York, showcasing his rise to power with a subtle yet commanding presence. What’s particularly impressive is how De Niro manages to capture the essence of Brando's performance while making the role entirely his own. He studied Brando's mannerisms and vocal delivery, but he didn't simply mimic them; instead, he used them as a foundation to build a more nuanced and complex character. His performance is a masterclass in acting, filled with subtle gestures and expressions that speak volumes about Vito's inner thoughts and motivations. The scenes depicting Vito's early life in Sicily and his subsequent struggles in America are particularly compelling, offering a deeper understanding of the man who would become the Godfather. De Niro's dedication to the role is evident in every scene, and it's no surprise that he won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal. The Godfather Part II isn't just a great movie; it's a testament to De Niro's incredible talent and his ability to immerse himself completely in his characters. It solidified his status as one of the most promising actors of his generation and set the stage for the remarkable career that would follow. For anyone looking to understand what makes De Niro such a legend, this is the perfect place to start. This film is a cornerstone of his filmography and a must-watch for any serious movie fan.
Taxi Driver (1976)
Next up, we have Taxi Driver! Robert De Niro delivers an absolutely mesmerizing performance as Travis Bickle, a Vietnam War veteran struggling with isolation and a growing sense of disillusionment in the gritty streets of New York City. Directed by Martin Scorsese, this film is a dark and disturbing exploration of the human psyche, and De Niro's portrayal of Travis is nothing short of iconic. Travis is a complex character, a man haunted by his past and struggling to find his place in a world that seems increasingly chaotic and corrupt. He takes a job as a taxi driver to try and make sense of the city, but what he finds is a landscape of violence, exploitation, and moral decay. De Niro completely embodies Travis, capturing his loneliness, his anger, and his descent into madness with incredible intensity. The famous "You talkin' to me?" scene is just one example of De Niro's ability to create a character that is both terrifying and sympathetic. He brings a raw, visceral energy to the role, making Travis feel like a real person grappling with real demons. Taxi Driver isn't just a movie; it's an experience. It's a film that stays with you long after the credits have rolled, prompting you to think about the darker aspects of human nature and the impact of societal alienation. De Niro's performance is the heart and soul of the film, and it's a testament to his incredible range and his willingness to take on challenging and complex roles. If you want to see De Niro at his most intense and unforgettable, Taxi Driver is an absolute must-watch. It's a film that has stood the test of time and continues to be a benchmark for psychological thrillers and character studies.
Raging Bull (1980)
Alright, let's talk about Raging Bull. In this biographical sports drama, Robert De Niro portrays the self-destructive boxer Jake LaMotta. His performance is often hailed as one of the greatest in cinematic history. Directed once again by Martin Scorsese, this film is a brutal and unflinching look at LaMotta's life, both inside and outside the ring. De Niro underwent a massive physical transformation for the role, gaining a significant amount of weight to portray LaMotta in his later years. This dedication to his craft is evident in every scene, as he completely embodies the character's rage, jealousy, and self-destructive tendencies. Raging Bull isn't just a boxing movie; it's a character study of a man consumed by his own demons. LaMotta's relationships with his wife and brother are strained by his volatile behavior, and his career is ultimately derailed by his inability to control his anger. De Niro's portrayal is both captivating and disturbing, as he captures the complexities of a man who is both a formidable athlete and a deeply flawed human being. The boxing scenes are particularly intense, with Scorsese's innovative camerawork and sound design putting the audience right in the middle of the action. But it's the quieter, more intimate moments that truly showcase De Niro's talent, as he reveals the vulnerability and pain beneath LaMotta's tough exterior. Raging Bull is a masterpiece of filmmaking, and De Niro's performance is the driving force behind its power. He won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal, and it's easy to see why. This is a performance that will stay with you long after you've seen the film, a testament to De Niro's incredible skill and his ability to bring complex characters to life. If you're looking for a film that will challenge you and stay with you, Raging Bull is an essential watch.
Goodfellas (1990)
Goodfellas is another must-see film in Robert De Niro's amazing career. Directed by Martin Scorsese, this crime drama tells the story of Henry Hill (played by Ray Liotta) and his rise and fall in the Mafia. De Niro plays Jimmy Conway, a seasoned gangster who mentors Henry and guides him through the dangerous world of organized crime. Jimmy is a charismatic and ruthless character, and De Niro brings him to life with his signature intensity and charm. He's the kind of guy you'd want to have on your side in a fight, but you'd also be terrified of crossing him. Goodfellas is a fast-paced, visceral film that immerses you in the world of the Mafia, showing you the glamour and the violence that come with it. Scorsese's direction is masterful, and the film is filled with memorable scenes and iconic lines. De Niro's performance is a standout, as he perfectly captures Jimmy's swagger and his capacity for both loyalty and betrayal. He's a complex character, and De Niro brings a depth and nuance to the role that makes him both fascinating and frightening. The film is a classic of the crime genre, and it's a testament to the talent of Scorsese, De Niro, and the entire cast. If you're a fan of gangster movies, Goodfellas is an absolute must-watch. It's a film that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end, and it's a reminder of why De Niro is considered one of the greatest actors of all time. This is a role that cemented his status as a screen legend.
Casino (1995)
Let's move on to Casino, another collaboration between Robert De Niro and Martin Scorsese. In this epic crime drama, De Niro plays Sam "Ace" Rothstein, a gambling expert who is hired by the Mafia to run the Tangiers Casino in Las Vegas. The film explores the glitz and glamour of the casino world, as well as the dark underbelly of organized crime. Ace is a meticulous and detail-oriented character, and De Niro brings a quiet intensity to the role. He's a man who is good at his job, but he's also out of his depth when it comes to dealing with the volatile personalities around him. Casino is a visually stunning film, with Scorsese using vibrant colors and elaborate sets to create a world that is both alluring and dangerous. The film is filled with memorable characters, including Nicky Santoro (played by Joe Pesci), a violent and unpredictable gangster who threatens to unravel Ace's carefully constructed world. De Niro's performance is a masterclass in understated acting, as he conveys Ace's growing frustration and desperation with subtle gestures and expressions. He's a man who is trying to maintain control in a situation that is rapidly spiraling out of control, and De Niro captures that struggle perfectly. Casino is a sprawling and ambitious film, and it's a testament to the talent of Scorsese, De Niro, and the entire cast. If you're a fan of crime dramas, this is a film that you won't want to miss. It's a deep dive into a world of greed, power, and betrayal, and it's a reminder of the high stakes involved in the game of chance.
Heat (1995)
Heat is a crime thriller where Robert De Niro stars alongside Al Pacino. It's directed by Michael Mann, and it's considered a classic in the heist genre. De Niro plays Neil McCauley, a professional thief who is meticulous and disciplined. He plans heists with precision and lives by a strict code. The film is known for its intense and realistic action sequences, as well as its compelling characters. Neil is a complex character, and De Niro brings a quiet intensity to the role. He's a man who is dedicated to his craft, but he also longs for a normal life. The film's standout scene is the coffee shop meeting between Neil and Vincent Hanna (played by Al Pacino), a detective who is determined to bring Neil down. The scene is a masterclass in acting, as the two actors engage in a battle of wits and wills. Heat is a stylish and suspenseful film, and it's a testament to the talent of Mann, De Niro, Pacino, and the entire cast. If you're a fan of crime thrillers, this is a film that you won't want to miss. It's a story of ambition, obsession, and the choices that define us.
Conclusion
So there you have it, guys! Just a glimpse into the incredible career of Robert De Niro. These movies are just the tip of the iceberg, but they showcase his incredible range and his ability to completely transform himself into every role he plays. Whether he's a young Vito Corleone, a troubled taxi driver, or a self-destructive boxer, De Niro always delivers a performance that is both captivating and unforgettable. If you haven't seen these movies yet, do yourself a favor and check them out. You won't be disappointed!