The partnership between Robert De Niro and Martin Scorsese stands as a pillar in cinematic history, marked by a series of groundbreaking films that have captivated audiences worldwide. This collaboration is brought into sharper focus with Martin Scorsese’s latest achievement: securing his place as the most Oscar-nominated living director. At the 96th Academy Awards, Scorsese received his 10th Best Director nomination for “Killers of the Flower Moon,” propelling him past Steven Spielberg, who holds nine nominations. This monumental accolade at the age of 81 underscores Scorsese’s enduring impact on the film industry and his exceptional ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with both critics and audiences alike.
10. New York, New York (1977)
Following their success with “Taxi Driver”, Scorsese and De Niro ventured into the musical genre with “New York, New York”. This ambitious blend of Golden Age Hollywood glamour and gritty realism was a commercial flop but is now appreciated for its bold experimentation and Minnelli’s iconic title song performance.
9. Cape Fear (1991)
In this thriller remake, De Niro delivers a memorably chilling performance as Max Caddy, a vengeful ex-convict. Although not as critically acclaimed as some of their other collaborations, “Cape Fear” became a significant commercial success and showcased De Niro’s versatility.
8. The Irishman (2019)
“The Irishman” is a reflective gangster epic spanning decades, marked by groundbreaking de-aging technology. Despite its lengthy runtime, the film is a poignant exploration of crime, loyalty, and the passage of time, enhancing Scorsese’s earlier works in the genre.
7. Killers of the Flower Moon (2023)
More than a western, “Killers of the Flower Moon” is a complex narrative intertwining crime, love, and historical analysis. De Niro shines as William ‘King’ Hale in this intricate story of greed and murder during the Osage Nation murders in the 1920s.
6. Casino (1995)
While often compared to “Goodfellas”, “Casino” stands on its own merits. Set in 1970s Las Vegas, it’s a gripping tale of power, betrayal, and glamour, with De Niro’s portrayal of casino manager Sam “Ace” Rothstein and Sharon Stone’s performance as his wife being particularly noteworthy.
5. Mean Streets (1973)
The first collaboration between Scorsese and De Niro, “Mean Streets” is a raw and vibrant portrayal of life in Little Italy. De Niro’s performance as Johnny Boy is a standout, marking
the beginning of a significant cinematic partnership.
4. The King of Comedy (1982)
“The King of Comedy” explores the dark side of fame through Rupert Pupkin, played by De Niro. This dark comedy, once misunderstood, is now heralded as a prescient critique of celebrity culture and media obsession.
3. Raging Bull (1980)
De Niro’s transformative performance as Jake LaMotta in “Raging Bull” is legendary. This intense character study of the troubled boxer is a high point in their collaborations, showcasing both Scorsese’s directorial prowess and De Niro’s acting range.
2. GoodFellas (1990)
“GoodFellas” is an exhilarating journey into the mob world, balancing the allure and repulsion of a criminal lifestyle. De Niro’s role, though not central, is pivotal, contributing significantly to the film’s enduring impact and cool factor.
1. Taxi Driver (1976)
“Taxi Driver” remains the pinnacle of Scorsese and De Niro’s collaborations. The portrayal of Travis Bickle, a troubled Vietnam vet, is a cornerstone in both of their careers, offering a gritty, unsettling, and profound exploration of urban alienation.
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