A cinematic titan has landed on Netflix for UK subscribers. The acclaimed biographical sports drama Raging Bull (1980), directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro, is now available to stream.
A Brutal Portrait of a Champion
The film is an adaptation of world champion boxer Jake LaMotta's memoir. De Niro delivers a legendary performance as LaMotta, a man whose ferocious drive propelled him to the summit of the boxing world but wreaked havoc on his personal life. The supporting cast features Joe Pesci as Jake's brother and manager, and Cathy Moriarty as his wife, Vickie.
The film's impact was cemented at the Academy Awards, where it won two Oscars. Robert De Niro secured the Best Actor award for his transformative role, and editor Thelma Schoonmaker won for Best Film Editing. These accolades helped solidify the movie's reputation as an enduring classic.
Audience and Critical Acclaim
Decades after its release, Raging Bull continues to receive fervent praise. Film blog Taste of Cinema has labelled it the "greatest biopic of all time," celebrating its powerful performances and strikingly surreal boxing sequences.
Fans on IMDb consistently rate the film highly, with many highlighting specific elements that make it a masterpiece. One viewer praised the fight scenes for their "brutal realism," noting how Scorsese's direction and Schoonmaker's editing make the audience feel like they are inside the ring. "It's some of the best editing I've ever seen," they wrote.
Another fan focused on the film's artistic texture, applauding the splendid black & white cinematography, the contrast in pacing, and the pervasive sense of loss. A third simply stated it was "rightfully one of the greatest films ever made," giving it a perfect 10/10 score.
Viewer Discretion Advised
Potential viewers should note that Raging Bull carries a 15 certificate. The film contains strong violence, scenes of domestic abuse, sex references, and very strong language, reflecting the harsh realities of its subject's life.
For film enthusiasts and newcomers alike, the arrival of this Scorsese-De Niro collaboration on Netflix UK offers a prime opportunity to experience a piece of cinematic history. Its status as a defining work in the biopic and sports drama genres remains unchallenged.
