Robert De Niro, widely known for his iconic gangster roles, has built a career spanning nearly six decades mostly portraying tough and intense characters. As he celebrates his 82nd birthday, this article highlights some of his lesser-known and diverse film roles, shedding light on his range beyond the typical gangster persona.
Exploring a Musical Drama Set in Post-War New York
While De Niro’s collaborations with Martin Scorsese on classic gangster films like Taxi Driver and Raging Bull cemented his reputation, nestled between these projects is the musical New York, New York. The film follows two musicians navigating their lives and romance immediately after World War II. Unlike his obsessive characters Travis Bickle and Jake LaMotta, De Niro’s role as Jimmy Doyle centers on his passionate love story, revealing a more vulnerable side of the actor.
Unusual Sci-Fi Dark Comedy in Terry Gilliam’s Brazil
In Terry Gilliam’s dystopian satire Brazil, De Niro delivers a rare science fiction performance as Archibald Tuttle, a rebellious terrorist figure. This role stands apart from his typical filmography, showcasing his ability to adapt to darkly comedic and surreal storytelling.
Portrayal of a Patient Finding Hope in Awakenings
In Penny Marshall’s drama Awakenings, De Niro inhabits the character Leonard Lowe, who spends much of the film confined to a wheelchair. As a supporting role, Leonard’s journey from catatonia towards renewed life symbolizes hope and resilience, contrasting with the usual dominance of De Niro’s tough guy roles.
Directorial Debut and Fatherly Role in A Bronx Tale
Though De Niro returned to familiar territory in his first time as a director with A Bronx Tale, the film departs from criminality to tell a heartfelt coming-of-age story. Based on co-star Chazz Palminteri’s childhood, De Niro plays the upright father, attempting to guide his son Calogero away from the criminal influences surrounding them in the Bronx.
Playing a Corrupt Politician in the Action Comedy Machete
In Machete, De Niro switches from tough guy roles to that of a corrupt senator named McLaughlin. Opposite Danny Trejo’s titular character, this film allows De Niro to demonstrate his comedic timing in an exaggerated political antagonist role, diverging from his usual gangster images.
A Ruthless Business Magnate in the Thriller Limitless
Another rare science fiction entry for De Niro is Limitless, where he plays Carl Van Loon, a powerful and merciless tycoon. His character’s obsession with control and manipulation, especially over lead character Eddie Morra, underlines De Niro’s ability to channel intensity in diverse genres.
A Source of Calm and Wisdom in Nancy Meyers’ The Intern
De Niro’s role as Ben Whittaker in The Intern offers the audience a calming presence and life lessons through his well-meaning, grandfatherly character. The film includes a memorable line where Anne Hathaway’s character, Jules Ostin, tells Ben,
“Something about you makes me feel calm.”
—Anne Hathaway, Actress
Lighthearted Fun in the Family Comedy The War With Grandpa
In a lighter departure at age 80, De Niro stars in a comedy about a prank war with his own grandson. Much like his former Goodfellas colleague Joe Pesci engaging in antics with Macaulay Culkin in Home Alone, De Niro embraces humor and warmth in this comfort watch, showing a playful side rarely seen in his more serious roles.
Robert De Niro has long been associated with intense, hard-edged characters, but these eight films highlight the actor’s wide-ranging talent across different genres and character types. As he continues to work into his eighth decade, his diverse film roles remind audiences of his adaptability and the depth he brings to the screen. Fans and newcomers alike can look forward to seeing where his career ventures next, as De Niro continues to challenge the boundaries of his celebrated legacy.
