Raging Bull

Starring: Robert DeNiro, Joe Pesci, Cathy Moriarty
Directed by: Martin Scorsese
Rating: R
Genre: Biography, Sports
1980

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: Boxer Jake LaMotta (Robert DeNiro) is famous for his violent temper in the ring. However, his difficulty in turning off that temper lead to problems in his personal life, with his brother (Joe Pesci) and wife (Cathy Moriarty).

Review:

Tim: Martin Scorsese is a brilliant director. No one can dispute that, especially after watching this remarkable movie. This is a classic film- not only one of the greatest sports movies of all time, but one the all time classics, regardless of genre.

Robert DeNiro gives a raw, edgy performance. Most critics call it the greatest of his career. He truly transforms himself into Jake LaMotta- not only the admirable qualities, but the ugly ones as well. He gives a multidimensional, real person performance.

Joe Pesci adds in one of his finest performances. He matches up with DeNiro perfectly. I usually don't like Pesci in roles like this (example, Goodfellas), but he is terrific in this movie.

The boxing scenes are all superbly crafted. The fights look amazing and the black and white film makes the action look more stark and gritty. The blood squirting from wounds adds to the element of realism in the film.

Scorsese makes a truly superb motion picture here. More than most biographical films, Raging Bull puts you right next to LaMotta and you leave the movie feeling like you knew the man.

On a side note, watch for DeNiro's delivery of Marlon Brando's famous "I coulda been a contender" speech from On the Waterfront. It is amazing.

Raging Bull is a powerful film that boldly shows one man's life of ups and downs. Watch it, please.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 8



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend:
On the Waterfront, Goodfellas, The Aviator, Gangs of New York