A trio at the top of their game

Rating: Null/10 (26 November 2002)

Beautifully polished, intense and gripping, the biopic tale of Jake La Motta stands firmly as the finest sporting movie ever made. But what separates 'Raging Bull' from others in the genre is the way in which the character is forced to confront his inner demons, as the consequences of an initially heroic, but ultimately self-destructive lifestyle, threaten to take their toll.
The partnership struck between Robert De Niro and Martin Scorsese is, to this day, the most successful actor-director combination to have prevailed. Similarly, the chemistry between De Niro and Joe Pesci has spread over a number of other top films, whether it be 'Casino' or Goodfellas.' In 'Raging Bull,' however, the trio are found at the top of their game.
The decision to shoot the film in black and white adds to the authenticity, making stunning use of imagery in the process - the sight of De Niro bouncing around in a dark, smoke-infested ring, is simply breathtaking, for instance. The structure of the film is also highly impressive, with events ending where they started.
The legendary Mohammed Ali may be boxing's biggest name, but his recent biopic, 'Ali,' falls way short of the high standards set by 'Raging Bull.'