The Top 5 Robert De Niro Movies of All Time

Robert De Niro, an actor whose name is synonymous with outstanding performances, has graced the silver screen with some of the most iconic roles in film history. With a career spanning over five decades, De Niro has showcased his versatility across a wide array of genres, from crime and drama to comedy. Selecting the top five movies from his illustrious career is no small feat, yet certain films stand out for their critical acclaim, audience appreciation, and the depth of De Niro’s performances. Here are the top five Robert De Niro movies of all time, each a testament to his profound impact on cinema.

1. “The Godfather Part II” (1974)

In what is often considered one of the greatest films in world cinema, De Niro’s portrayal of the young Vito Corleone in “The Godfather Part II” earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. His performance brought depth to the backstory of the Corleone family patriarch, seamlessly connecting the sequel to its predecessor. De Niro’s ability to convey the complexity of Vito’s character, from a struggling immigrant to a powerful mafia boss, is nothing short of remarkable.

2. “Taxi Driver” (1976)

Directed by Martin Scorsese, “Taxi Driver” sees De Niro in one of his most iconic roles as Travis Bickle, a disillusioned Vietnam War veteran turned taxi driver who descends into madness. De Niro’s intense and unsettling performance captures the loneliness and alienation of post-war America, making “Taxi Driver” a powerful critique of societal decay. The film’s climax, along with De Niro’s famous improvised line, “You talkin’ to me?”, has cemented its place in cinematic history.

3. “Raging Bull” (1980)

Again teaming up with Scorsese, De Niro delivered what many consider the performance of his lifetime in “Raging Bull.” Playing the self-destructive boxer Jake LaMotta, De Niro’s physical transformation and raw emotional depth showcased his dedication to his craft. The film’s brutal portrayal of LaMotta’s life, both inside and outside the ring, earned De Niro an Academy Award for Best Actor, solidifying “Raging Bull” as a masterpiece of American cinema.

4. “Goodfellas” (1990)

In “Goodfellas,” De Niro plays Jimmy Conway, a charming yet ruthless mobster, in this critically acclaimed adaptation of the true crime book “Wiseguy” by Nicholas Pileggi. The film offers an enthralling look at the rise and fall of a Mafia family, with De Niro’s performance highlighting the allure and danger of life in organized crime. “Goodfellas” remains a pinnacle of the gangster genre, celebrated for its dynamic storytelling and memorable performances.

5. “The Deer Hunter” (1978)

“The Deer Hunter” explores the impact of the Vietnam War on American working-class steel workers, with De Niro leading an ensemble cast. His portrayal of Michael, a man changed by the horrors of war, is both powerful and poignant. The film’s intense Russian roulette scenes, along with its exploration of friendship and loss, garnered critical acclaim and won several Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Conclusion

Robert De Niro’s filmography is a testament to his incredible range and talent as an actor. While this list highlights five of his most celebrated roles, it barely scratches the surface of his contributions to cinema. De Niro’s dedication to his craft and his ability to bring complex characters to life have left an indelible mark on the film industry, making him one of the greatest actors of his generation. One not included on the list is casino – another complete classic, which lead to a huge buzz for the industry at the time and players looking to access new options, which shows the impact that these great movies can have!