Raging Bull

Date Released: December 19, 1980
Director: Martin Scorsese
Cast: Robert De Niro, Cathy Moriarty, Joe Pesci, Frank Vincent
Genre: Drama/Biography
Rating: 8.4/10 (IMDB.com)

If you haven't seen this movie, I suggest you get out from the rock your under and witness motion picture history! "Raging Bull" is based on the memoir Raging Bull: My Story written by former middle-weight champion Jake LaMotta.
Robert De Niro plays boxer LaMotta, a paranoid and violent prize-fighter who's abusive tendencies destroy his relationships with his wife (Moriarty) and brother (Pesci). Based on a true story, "Raging Bull" follows the life and career of LaMotta and his bouts with famous fighters such as Marcell Cedan and Sugar Ray Robinson. It also follows LaMotta's life after boxing and self destructive behavior.
The story is compelling to me because it portrays human nature in such a way that is rarely portrayed; realistically. Most films are scared to dive deep into some of the complex ways of human behavior, but this film holds no punches and explores the true jealous, violent, and deviant nature of some men.
When you watch this film you will be taken aback by LaMotta's animalistic behavior and the way he treats and acts towards people. A credit to De Niro's brilliant acting, who by the way gained and lost over 60 lbs for this role. In the behind the scenes features of the DVD, Vicki LaMotta, who is played by Cathy Moriarty in the film, stated that when she saw this movie, Jake LaMotta asked her if he was "really that bad?" Vicki said, "No, you were worse."
Shot in black and white, Scorsese does a magnificent job in directing this culturally significant film. Lauded by many critics and polls as one of the best movies to ever be made, it truly is Scorsese's best film and De Niro's best role.
This movie helped launch the career of Joe Pesci and Frank Vincent as well. Scorsese always seems to cast Vincent and Pesci in dueling roles in many of his films. They converse in such an authentic way that they don't ever seem to be acting. I must admit, some scenes in this film are so unbelievable that all you can do is sit back and laugh. But you won't be laughing out of humor, you'll be laughing out at how a human being could actually act in the manner LaMotta did.
You should buy this movie and display it on your mantle to show people that visit your home that you have the wherewithal to know what a great film is.

My Rating: 9.2/10
Available: DVD

Posted by Matt