Robert De Niro: Top Movies Ranked!

Hey movie buffs! You know, when we talk about legendary actors, one name that always pops up is Robert De Niro. This guy isn't just an actor; he's a chameleon, a powerhouse, a freaking institution in Hollywood. From his early collaborations with Scorsese to his comedic turns later in his career, De Niro has given us some of the most memorable characters and performances in cinematic history. So, let's dive into a list of some of his absolute best movies, the ones that cemented his status as a true icon.

Early Career Highlights

De Niro's early work is nothing short of breathtaking, marking the arrival of a phenomenal talent. Let's kick things off with Mean Streets (1973), directed by Martin Scorsese. This wasn't just any crime film; it was a gritty, raw, and unflinching look at life in Little Italy. De Niro played Johnny Boy, a small-time crook with a self-destructive streak. His performance was electrifying, full of nervous energy and unpredictable behavior. It was clear from this early role that De Niro had something special – an ability to embody complex, often unlikeable characters with a mesmerizing intensity. The collaboration between Scorsese and De Niro here set the stage for one of the most iconic director-actor partnerships in cinema history, paving the way for future masterpieces that would further solidify both their legacies. Mean Streets wasn't just a stepping stone; it was a launchpad that propelled De Niro into the spotlight, announcing his arrival as a force to be reckoned with in the world of acting. His raw talent and dedication to the role shone brightly, making it a standout performance that still resonates with audiences today.

Then, there's The Godfather Part II (1974), where De Niro took on the daunting task of playing a young Vito Corleone, a role made iconic by Marlon Brando in the original Godfather. The pressure was immense, but De Niro didn't just imitate Brando; he made the role his own, delivering a performance that was both respectful and uniquely his. He won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for this role, a testament to his incredible talent and dedication. De Niro immersed himself in the character, learning to speak Sicilian and capturing the nuances of a young man transforming into a powerful and ruthless figure. His portrayal added layers of depth and complexity to the Corleone saga, providing a crucial link between the past and present of the family's history. This role not only showcased his versatility as an actor but also demonstrated his commitment to his craft, solidifying his reputation as one of the most dedicated and talented performers of his generation. The Godfather Part II remains a cinematic landmark, and De Niro's contribution is an integral part of its enduring legacy.

Scorsese Collaborations: A Golden Era

The collaborations between De Niro and Martin Scorsese are legendary, producing some of the most iconic films in cinema history. Taxi Driver (1976) is arguably one of their best. De Niro's portrayal of Travis Bickle, a Vietnam War veteran struggling with alienation and mental instability, is nothing short of iconic. His performance is intense, disturbing, and utterly captivating. The film itself is a dark and unflinching look at the underbelly of New York City, and De Niro's portrayal of Travis Bickle is at the heart of its power. The famous "You talkin' to me?" scene is forever etched in cinematic history, showcasing De Niro's ability to deliver lines with chilling intensity and raw emotion. Taxi Driver is more than just a film; it's a cultural touchstone, and De Niro's performance is a masterclass in acting, solidifying his status as one of the greatest actors of all time.

Next up is Raging Bull (1980), where De Niro transformed himself physically and emotionally to play boxer Jake LaMotta. He gained a significant amount of weight to portray LaMotta in his later years, showcasing his commitment to the role. His performance is raw, visceral, and deeply moving. The film is a brutal and unflinching look at LaMotta's self-destructive behavior, both inside and outside the ring. De Niro won an Oscar for Best Actor for this role, a well-deserved recognition of his incredible dedication and talent. Raging Bull is considered by many to be one of the greatest films ever made, and De Niro's performance is at the heart of its power. The intensity and vulnerability he brings to the role are unparalleled, making it a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.

Goodfellas (1990) sees De Niro as Jimmy Conway, a suave and dangerous gangster. While not the central character, his presence is magnetic, adding a layer of menace and charisma to the ensemble. The film is a high-octane, adrenaline-fueled ride through the world of organized crime, and De Niro's performance is a key ingredient in its success. Goodfellas is a masterclass in filmmaking, and De Niro's portrayal of Jimmy Conway is both captivating and terrifying. His ability to convey both charm and ruthlessness makes him a perfect fit for the role, adding depth and complexity to the already rich tapestry of characters. The film's impact on popular culture is undeniable, and De Niro's contribution is an essential part of its enduring appeal.

And let's not forget Casino (1995), another Scorsese masterpiece. De Niro plays Sam "Ace" Rothstein, a gambling expert who is brought in to run a casino in Las Vegas. The film is a lavish and visually stunning portrayal of the world of gambling and organized crime, and De Niro's performance is cool, calculating, and utterly compelling. Casino is a sprawling epic that delves into the dark side of the American dream, and De Niro's portrayal of Ace Rothstein is both fascinating and unsettling. His ability to convey the character's intelligence and ambition, as well as his growing paranoia and desperation, makes him a perfect fit for the role. The film's attention to detail and its unflinching portrayal of violence and corruption make it a cinematic landmark, and De Niro's contribution is an integral part of its power.

Beyond Scorsese: Diverse Roles

De Niro's talent extends far beyond his collaborations with Scorsese. He has proven his versatility in a wide range of roles, showcasing his ability to tackle any genre. In The Deer Hunter (1978), De Niro delivers a powerful and moving performance as Michael Vronsky, a Vietnam War veteran struggling to readjust to civilian life. The film is a harrowing and unflinching look at the impact of war on the human psyche, and De Niro's portrayal of Michael is both heartbreaking and inspiring. The Deer Hunter is a cinematic masterpiece that explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the devastating consequences of war, and De Niro's performance is at the heart of its emotional power. His ability to convey the character's inner turmoil and his unwavering commitment to his friends make him a truly unforgettable presence on screen.

Then there's Once Upon a Time in America (1984), Sergio Leone's epic crime drama. De Niro plays David "Noodles" Aaronson, a Jewish gangster looking back on his life. The film is a sprawling and visually stunning portrayal of the American dream gone sour, and De Niro's performance is both nuanced and powerful. Once Upon a Time in America is a cinematic masterpiece that explores themes of love, betrayal, and the corrosive effects of power, and De Niro's portrayal of Noodles is both captivating and heartbreaking. His ability to convey the character's longing for a lost past and his struggle to come to terms with his own actions makes him a truly unforgettable presence on screen.

And who can forget Heat (1995), where De Niro goes head-to-head with Al Pacino? De Niro plays Neil McCauley, a professional thief, in this crime saga. The film is known for its intense action sequences and its complex characters, and De Niro's performance is cool, calculated, and utterly compelling. The diner scene alone, where De Niro and Pacino share a tense and philosophical conversation, is a masterclass in acting. Heat is a cinematic masterpiece that explores themes of ambition, loyalty, and the choices we make in life, and De Niro's portrayal of Neil McCauley is both fascinating and chilling. His ability to convey the character's intelligence and his unwavering commitment to his code make him a truly unforgettable presence on screen.

Comedy and Later Career

De Niro has also shown his comedic chops in films like Analyze This (1999) and Meet the Parents (2000). These roles demonstrate his versatility and willingness to poke fun at his own tough-guy image. Analyze This sees De Niro as a mob boss seeking therapy, while Meet the Parents casts him as an overprotective and intimidating father-in-law. Both films showcase his comedic timing and his ability to play against type, proving that he's not just a dramatic actor but also a gifted comedian. These roles broadened his appeal and introduced him to a new generation of moviegoers, solidifying his status as a true Hollywood icon. While these films may not be as critically acclaimed as his earlier work, they demonstrate his range and his willingness to take risks, proving that he's always up for a challenge.

De Niro's Enduring Legacy

Robert De Niro's impact on cinema is undeniable. He's not just an actor; he's a cultural icon. His dedication to his craft, his willingness to take risks, and his ability to embody complex characters have made him one of the most respected and admired actors of all time. From his early collaborations with Scorsese to his later comedic roles, De Niro has consistently delivered unforgettable performances that have shaped the landscape of modern cinema. His influence can be seen in countless actors who have followed in his footsteps, and his films continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world. Robert De Niro is a true legend, and his legacy will endure for generations to come. So, the next time you're looking for a great movie to watch, check out one of these De Niro classics. You won't be disappointed, guys!