Masterpiece. De Niro is an acting God....simply magnificent.

Rating: 9/10 (12 October 2007)

Robert De Niro is probably one of the greatest actors ever. In this movie, he solidifies that statement, with gritty realism. Based on Ex-Middlewieght Champion Jake la Motta's life, the film chronicles the rise and fall of his boxing career, as well as his ups and downs in personal life. De Niro has given us one of the most powerful performances ever. He deserved the Oscar he won in 1981. De Niro is also a hard worker. I mean, he would put on weight and wear a fat suit to keep his character real!! An excellent example of acting is when La Motta accuses his brother and manager for sleeping with his wife. The dialog is fantastic, and the energy provided by De Niro is dynamic.
I understand that De Niro was helping director Martin Scorcese with drug problems during production. That's called determination. He worked so hard on the film that eventually he got rid of his drug problem. Sure, this has Scorcese-style over it, but not like Taxi Driver (another classic). This movie has a completely different feel over it, it's not feel-good and inspirational like Rocky, but rather, a realistic and tragic downfall that leaves us speechless. The fights scenes are also well filmed and edited.
Scorsese shot the film in black and white, beautifully portraying a certain era of misery and depression. The music is also good, whenever I hear the theme from Raging Bull, I get watery-eyed.
But of course, De Niro is not the only one whose good in acting. Cathy Moriarty gives a great performance as the abused and misunderstood wife, and Joe Pesci is just superb as La Motta's brother, Joey. Nevertheless, it is De Niro who still makes it to the top.
Overall, the film is a fine and iconic example of film-making art and will get better as time passes. It will stand the test of time and will still remain triumphant. Simply put, a excellent movie which will never be forgotten.
9.91/10 Delton.