25 Robert De Niro Films Ranked

Robert De Niro, an iconic actor who celebrated his 80th birthday in 2023, has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. His journey in the film industry began in the mid-1960s, but it was the early 1970s that catapulted him into stardom. Over the years, he has showcased his exceptional talent in a wide range of roles spanning various genres. Even at 80, he continues to grace the silver screen with his presence, with notable roles in 2023’s “About My Father” and “Killers of the Flower Moon.”

De Niro’s name is synonymous with greatness in the world of acting, and a stroll through his extensive filmography reveals that few actors have contributed to as many cinematic classics as he has. In this article, we will explore the crème de la crème of Robert De Niro’s illustrious career, ranking his top 25 movies from great to greatest.

25. “Ronin” (1998)

Don’t be misled by the title; “Ronin” has nothing to do with samurai. Released in 1998, this action-packed crime thriller is a hidden gem in De Niro’s filmography. It tells the story of a group of mercenaries brought together for a perilous mission involving the retrieval of a valuable briefcase. The film boasts solid action sequences, a compelling script penned by David Mamet, and skilled direction by John Frankenheimer, known for his 1960s classics. While there are no sword-wielding samurais, “Ronin” offers an underrated cinematic experience.

24. “Awakenings” (1990)

“Awakenings” stands as a testament to De Niro’s versatility beyond his iconic gangster roles. Set in the late 1960s and inspired by real-life events, the film explores the bond between a patient (De Niro) awakened from a decades-long coma and his doctor (Robin Williams). The narrative delves into the encephalitis lethargica epidemic of 1919 to 1930, where individuals truly experienced catatonia for extended periods. Despite its heavy themes, “Awakenings” is a masterfully told tale, with De Niro’s performance earning him an Academy Award nomination.

23. “A Bronx Tale” (1993)

De Niro’s directorial ventures may be few, but “A Bronx Tale” shines brightly among them. This coming-of-age crime drama, released in 1993, also features De Niro in a supporting role. He portrays a working-class, stern father whose son is tempted by a life of crime to escape his modest upbringing. While “A Bronx Tale” doesn’t revolutionize the crime genre, it impressively marks De Niro’s directorial debut, showcasing his talent both behind and in front of the camera.

22. “Midnight Run” (1988)

The 1980s were the golden era of buddy comedies, and “Midnight Run” stands as a hidden gem within the genre. De Niro and Charles Grodin star as a mismatched pair: a bounty hunter and a targeted criminal, respectively. Their unlikely alliance forms the core of this film, which combines elements of road movie, buddy comedy, action, and crime thriller. “Midnight Run” is an entertaining and breezy watch, often overshadowed by more well-known titles of the era.

21. “Stardust” (2007)

“Stardust” stands out as a rare fantasy film in both Matthew Vaughn’s and Robert De Niro’s careers. This cult classic from the 2000s follows the adventures of a falling star, who, to everyone’s surprise, is a young woman. De Niro plays Captain Shakespeare, the lead pirate on a flying ship, in a supporting role that adds a delightful touch of whimsy to the story. While his screen time is limited, De Niro’s performance in this lighthearted fantasy showcases his ability to excel in diverse roles.

20. “Cape Fear” (1991)

“Cape Fear” is a remake that does justice to the original 1962 film, thanks in large part to De Niro’s terrifying portrayal of Max Cady, a brutal criminal targeting a family. De Niro’s dedication to the role went beyond acting, involving physical transformation and method acting, including altering his teeth. The film offers a tense and intense experience, highlighting De Niro’s commitment to his craft.

19. “Meet the Parents” (2000)

“Meet the Parents” is a comedic gem in De Niro’s filmography. This early 2000s comedy explores the challenges of meeting a partner’s parents for the first time. De Niro plays the father who clashes with his potential son-in-law, played by Ben Stiller. In a departure from his usual roles, De Niro delivers a genuinely funny performance, making “Meet the Parents” one of his standout movies of the 21st century.

18. “American Hustle” (2013)

“American Hustle” is a darkly comedic crime film loosely based on real-life events in the late 1970s and early 1980s. While De Niro’s role is more of an extended cameo, his presence adds gravitas to the movie as a menacing mafia boss. The film’s fast-paced narrative and star-studded cast, including De Niro, keep audiences engaged throughout, despite his limited screen time.

17. “Casino” (1995)

“Casino” marked the end of a fruitful collaboration between De Niro and director Martin Scorsese, at least for nearly a quarter of a century. This dark and violent portrayal of the mob’s control over Las Vegas during the 1970s is a compelling addition to their filmography. With a gripping narrative, stylish visuals, and stellar performances, including De Niro’s, Sharon Stone’s, and Joe Pesci’s, “Casino” remains an essential 1990s gangster film.

16. “Joker” (2019)

“Joker” may have drawn inspiration from Martin Scorsese’s films, but it also featured Robert De Niro, a frequent Scorsese collaborator. De Niro plays a talk show host idolized by the film’s protagonist, Arthur Fleck, portrayed by Joaquin Phoenix. While the narrative belongs to Fleck, “Joker” excels in acting quality and a consistently nerve-wracking storyline. While not groundbreaking in originality, it scores high for the quality of its performances and storytelling.

15. “Mean Streets” (1973)

“Mean Streets” was the film that launched the partnership between Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro. This loosely plotted film revolves around a group of young men navigating the world of New York City, straddling the line between legitimate life and organized crime. While Harvey Keitel takes center stage, De Niro’s supporting role is unforgettable, contributing to the film’s energy and historical significance in the crime movie genre.

14. “Silver Linings Playbook” (2012)

“Silver Linings Playbook” is a romantic dramedy that offers a feel-good yet realistic portrayal of mental illness. De Niro and Jacki Weaver shine as parents, while Jennifer Lawrence delivers an Oscar-winning performance as the love interest of Bradley Cooper’s character. The film tackles mental health sensitively and boasts strong performances, making it a standout in De Niro’s filmography.

13. “Brazil” (1985)

“Brazil” is a dystopian science-fiction film known for its dark humor and darker themes. De Niro appears as Archibald Tuttle, a resistance fighter and freelance heating engineer. His presence adds eccentricity to the film, with his scenes stealing the spotlight. “Brazil” stands as one of De Niro’s most unusual roles and a memorable addition to his filmography.

12. “The Untouchables” (1987)

Based loosely on real events, “The Untouchables” is a classic crime thriller directed by Brian De Palma. The film follows Eliot Ness (Kevin Costner) as he assembles a team to take down the notorious gangster Al Capone, played by De Niro. De Niro’s portrayal allows him to dive into method acting, showcasing his dedication to his craft. From gaining weight for the role to wearing Al Capone’s silk underwear, De Niro’s commitment shines through in this gripping film.

11. “The King of Comedy” (1982)

Despite its title, “The King of Comedy” leans more towards dark and uncomfortable humor. Directed by Martin Scorsese, the film features De Niro as a fame-hungry individual willing to go to extreme lengths to emulate his idol, a talk show host played by Jerry Lewis. De Niro’s commitment to the lead role is astounding, and the film delivers a persistently unsettling and uncompromising viewing experience.

10. “The Mission” (1986)

Released in 1986, “The Mission” is a period drama and adventure film that explores themes of redemption, religion, and the human spirit. De Niro stars as an ex-mercenary seeking forgiveness for his past actions, leading him to collaborate with Jesuit missionaries in the South American jungle. The film, featuring Jeremy Irons and a young Liam Neeson, portrays their clash with military forces vying for the land. With stunning visuals and a beautiful score by Ennio Morricone, “The Mission” is an emotionally charged cinematic experience.

9. “The Deer Hunter” (1978)

Ranked among the greatest war films of all time, “The Deer Hunter” offers a profound exploration of the impact of war on individuals. The film, split into three acts, follows a group of men before, during, and after their service in the Vietnam War. De Niro delivers a compelling performance alongside Meryl Streep and Christopher Walken. This unflinching portrayal of the horrors of war is a tragic and powerful cinematic achievement.

8. “Jackie Brown” (1997)

“Jackie Brown” marks the sole collaboration between Quentin Tarantino and Robert De Niro, but it leaves an indelible mark. This stylish crime thriller revolves around a flight attendant caught smuggling money for a gun runner, leading her to cooperate with the police. De Niro is one of many talented actors in the cast, including Pam Grier, Samuel L. Jackson, Robert Forster, Bridget Fonda, and Michael Keaton. “Jackie Brown” offers a more mature and nuanced Tarantino film, making it a standout in De Niro’s filmography.

7. “Heat” (1995)

The anticipation of two acting legends, Robert De Niro and Al Pacino, sharing the screen in “Heat” was well worth it. De Niro plays a calm and collected bank robber, while Pacino portrays a hot-headed detective determined to capture him. Their legendary one-on-one scene in a diner and the ensuing large-scale bank heist turned street shootout are iconic moments in cinematic history. “Heat” offers compelling storytelling and solid performances, cementing its status as an outstanding film.

6. “The Irishman” (2019)

“The Irishman” is the longest collaboration between Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro, a cinematic epic that reaffirms their mastery of crime films. De Niro stars as Frank Sheeran, an aging hitman plagued by his actions in his youth. With Al Pacino and Joe Pesci also in the cast, the film is a slow-burning masterpiece, culminating in a devastating and unforgettable final act.

5. “Raging Bull” (1980)

“Raging Bull” earned Robert De Niro his second Oscar for his portrayal of Jake LaMotta, making it one of the most intense sports films ever made. Shot in black and white, the film captures the brutality of LaMotta’s life inside and outside the boxing ring. De Niro’s performance is nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing his commitment to method acting.

4. “The Godfather: Part II” (1974)

“The Godfather: Part II” is often hailed as one of the greatest sequels and prequels in cinematic history. De Niro takes on the role of a young Vito Corleone in flashbacks, a character originally played by Marlon Brando. The film interweaves two compelling narratives, one featuring De Niro and the other focusing on Al Pacino’s Michael Corleone. Despite the decades separating their characters, De Niro and Pacino later shared the screen in films like “Heat” and “The Irishman.”

3. “Once Upon a Time in America” (1984)

“Once Upon a Time in America” is one of the longest and greatest crime films ever made, spanning 229 minutes. The movie unfolds over decades, tracing the journey of a group of childhood friends who form a criminal gang and eventually succumb to jealousy and greed. De Niro’s portrayal of the main character, Noodles, in both his youth and old age is a masterclass in acting. Directed by Sergio Leone and featuring Ennio Morricone’s unforgettable score, the film is an operatic and tragic epic.

2. “Taxi Driver” (1976)

“Taxi Driver” marked the return of Robert De Niro and Martin Scorsese, delivering a gritty drama set in New York City. The film follows a war veteran who becomes a late-night cab driver to combat insomnia. De Niro’s portrayal of the disturbed protagonist descending into madness is hauntingly intense. “Taxi Driver” is an unforgettable character study and a significant milestone in De Niro’s career.

1. “Goodfellas” (1990)

When it comes to crime films, Robert De Niro, Martin Scorsese, and “Goodfellas” reign supreme. The movie stars Ray Liotta as Henry Hill, who narrates his life as a mobster, providing an unfiltered look at the highs and lows of that lifestyle. Lorraine Bracco, Joe Pesci, and De Niro deliver standout performances. “Goodfellas” boasts everything a gangster film should have and remains the pinnacle of Scorsese’s directorial work and De Niro’s acting career.

In celebrating the remarkable career of Robert De Niro, these 25 films showcase his exceptional talent and versatility. From crime dramas to dark comedies to epic adventures, De Niro’s contributions to cinema are a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of acting. As he continues to grace the screen, his impact on the film industry remains undeniable.

Whether you’re a fan of crime films, character-driven dramas, or thought-provoking comedies, Robert De Niro’s filmography offers something for everyone to enjoy and appreciate. As we celebrate his 80th birthday in 2023, there’s no better time to revisit these cinematic gems and relive the incredible moments he has brought to the silver screen over the decades. Cheers to Robert De Niro, an acting legend whose work will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for generations to come.