5 Best Robert De Niro Performances You Can't Afford to Miss
From Taxi Driver to The Godfather, you need to rewatch these movies.
Robert De Niro is a big name in the industry with a dedicated fan army across the globe. De Niro has given us some of the most exceptional characters in cinematic history. Let's have a moment to appreciate some of his best performances over his long career.
Cape Fear (1991)
In this remake of the original Cape Fear, De Niro gives us chills as Max Cady, a vengeful ex-con with a bone to pick with his former lawyer. De Niro's portrayal of Cady is nothing short of terrifying, with his prison tattoos and muscular build adding to the character's menacing aura.
His performance was so unforgettable that it even made its way into an episode of The Simpsons.
Goodfellas (1995)
Among the star-studded cast of Goodfellas, De Niro's portrayal of James Jimmy the Gent Conway is a standout.
Despite the heinous crimes Jimmy commits, De Niro's performance is captivating and subtly commanding. One of the most memorable scenes is when he's simply smoking a cigarette, looking both cool and threatening, as Cream's Sunshine of Your Love plays in the background.
Raging Bull (1980)
De Niro's performance in Raging Bull is often considered one of his best. The film didn't take home the Oscar for Best Picture, but De Niro's performance was so powerful that it was impossible to ignore.
Taxi Driver (1976)
Taxi Driver, possibly Scorsese's greatest film, features De Niro as Travis Bickle, a Vietnam vet spiraling down a dark path. De Niro's portrayal of Bickle is still widely praised today, and his character has become an unforgettable anti-hero in cinema history.
More than 45 years later, Taxi Driver and Bickle's character remain as compelling as ever.
The Godfather Part II (1974)
De Niro's depiction of young Vito Corleone is a must-see. His portrayal of Vito's transformation from a family man to a ruthless crime boss is both captivating and chilling.
De Niro's Vito is a man of few words, but his actions speak volumes. Watching his moral code evolve throughout the film is a fascinating journey that keeps you on the edge of your seat.