Robert De Niro
Robert De Niro: A Cinematic Legend
Full Name and Common Aliases
Full Name: Robert Anthony De Niro Jr.
Common Aliases: Bobby D, Raging Bull
Birth and Death Dates
Birth Date: August 17, 1943
Death Date: N/A
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: American
Profession(s): Actor, Producer, Director
Early Life and Background
Robert De Niro was born in the vibrant neighborhood of Greenwich Village in New York City. His parents, Virginia Admiral and Robert De Niro Sr., were both artists, which provided him with a rich cultural upbringing. De Niro's father was a celebrated abstract expressionist painter, while his mother was a poet and painter. This artistic environment undoubtedly influenced De Niro's future career in the arts.
De Niro attended the Little Red School House and later the High School of Music & Art in New York. However, he dropped out at the age of 16 to pursue acting, enrolling at the Stella Adler Conservatory and later at Lee Strasberg's Actors Studio. These institutions were instrumental in shaping his method acting skills, which would become a hallmark of his career.
Major Accomplishments
Robert De Niro's career is marked by numerous accolades and achievements. He is a two-time Academy Award winner, having won Best Supporting Actor for his role in "The Godfather Part II" (1974) and Best Actor for "Raging Bull" (1980). His portrayal of Jake LaMotta in "Raging Bull" is often cited as one of the greatest performances in cinematic history.
In addition to his Oscar wins, De Niro has received numerous nominations and awards, including a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for "The King of Comedy" (1983). His contributions to the film industry were further recognized with the AFI Life Achievement Award in 2003 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016.
Notable Works or Actions
De Niro's filmography is extensive and diverse, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He is perhaps best known for his collaborations with director Martin Scorsese, which include iconic films such as "Taxi Driver" (1976), "Goodfellas" (1990), and "Casino" (1995). His role as Travis Bickle in "Taxi Driver" is particularly memorable, with the line "You talkin' to me?" becoming one of the most quoted in film history.
Beyond his work with Scorsese, De Niro has delivered powerful performances in films like "The Deer Hunter" (1978), "Heat" (1995), and "The Irishman" (2019). He has also ventured into comedy, starring in successful films such as "Meet the Parents" (2000) and "Analyze This" (1999).
Impact and Legacy
Robert De Niro's impact on the film industry is profound. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation, known for his intense dedication to his roles and his ability to transform into his characters. His method acting approach has inspired countless actors and filmmakers, setting a high standard for performance in cinema.
De Niro's influence extends beyond acting. He co-founded the Tribeca Film Festival in 2002, which has become a significant platform for independent filmmakers and a cultural staple in New York City. His production company, Tribeca Productions, has produced numerous successful films and television shows, further cementing his legacy in the entertainment industry.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Robert De Niro is widely quoted and remembered for his compelling performances and his contributions to the art of filmmaking. His ability to deliver memorable lines with authenticity and depth has made many of his quotes iconic. Lines from his films, such as "You talkin' to me?" from "Taxi Driver" and "I'm funny how? I mean, funny like I'm a clown?" from "Goodfellas," have transcended their original context to become part of popular culture.
De Niro's dedication to his craft and his willingness to take on challenging and diverse roles have earned him a place in the pantheon of great actors. His work continues to resonate with audiences and inspire new generations of filmmakers and actors. As a result, Robert De Niro remains a towering figure in the world of cinema, celebrated for his artistic achievements and his enduring impact on the industry.
Quotes by Robert De Niro
Robert De Niro's insights on:
You draw on whatever's relevant to the part you're playing; it makes it more personal.
As an actor who’s starting out, you can’t say, “Hey, I’m too good for this.” You gotta do it, because people see you, your name gets around, and it has a cumulative effect.
One regret I have: I didn’t get as much of the family history as I could have for the kids.
I always tell actors when they go in for an audition: Don’t be afraid to do what your instincts tell you. You may not get the part, but people will take notice.
New York is more exciting, I guess, than even Paris or London. New York’s the center of something; I don’t know what, really – the center of a lot of things. With all its problems and chaos and craziness, it’s still a great place to live. I can’t see myself living anywhere else.
It’s important not to indicate. People don’t try to show their feelings, they try to hide them.
I didn’t have a problem with rejection, because when you go into an audition, you’re rejected already. There are hundreds of other actors. You’re behind the eight ball when you go in there.
If De Niro wants to spend the twilight of his career as the McDonald’s of master thespians, we can’t stop him.
When you make a drama, you spend all day beating a guy to death with a hammer, or what have you. Or, you have to take a bite out of somebody’s face. On the other hand, with a comedy, you yell at Billy Crystal for an hour, and you go home.