Welcome to our cinematic treasure hunt, where we’ll be diving into the top 10 biopic movies of all time – the best of the best biopics of all time, if you will! Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Biopics? Aren’t those just the broccoli of the movie world?” Well, dear reader, prepare to have your socks knocked off. These films aren’t just broccoli; they’re the broccoli covered in cheese and bacon bits of the movie world – delectable, unforgettable, and surprisingly fun!
Let’s start with a quick anecdote. Remember the first time you watched a movie that made you forget it was based on real people? You were so immersed, you almost believed you were friends with Abraham Lincoln or had a front-row seat to Mozart’s mad genius. That’s the magic we’re talking about here.
These movies are like time machines, taking you on wild rides through history’s most fascinating lives. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll probably Google “Is this really how it happened?” more times than you can count.
So grab your popcorn and your curiosity, because we’re about to embark on a journey through the crème de la crème of biopics. Get ready to meet the legends, the heroes, and the wonderfully flawed humans who’ve shaped our world. Let’s dive into the best biopics of all time and see which ones made the cut!
Detailed Table of Top 10 Greatest Biopic Movies of All Time
| Ranking | Movie Name | Genres | Runtime | Directors | Stars Cast | IMDB Rating | Box Office Collection | Where to watch |
| 1 | Schindler’s List | Adventure, Drama, War | 3h 15m | Steven Spielberg | Liam Neeson, Ben Kingsley, Ralph Fiennes | 9 | $322.2 million | Amazon Prime Video, Showtime Apple TV Channel, AMC on Demand, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu |
| 2 | Goodfellas | Biography, Crime, Drama | 2h 25m | Martin Scorsese | Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, Joe Pesci | 8.7 | $47.1 million | Apple TV Plus, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, Spectrum On Demand online, AMC on Demand |
| 3 | The Pianist | Biography, Drama, Music, War | 2h 30m | Roman Polanski | Adrien Brody, Thomas Kretschmann | 8.5 | $120.1 million | Pluto TV, Thirteen, Amazon Prime Video, Microsoft Store, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Vudu, Google Play Movies, YouTube |
| 4 | Amadeus | Biography, Drama, Music | 2h 40m | Miloš Forman | F. Murray Abraham, Tom Hulce | 8.4 | $90 million | Netflix, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, Amazon Video online, AMC on Demand |
| 5 | Oppenheimer | Biography, Drama, History | 3 hours | Christopher Nolan | Cillian Murphy, Emily Blunt, Matt Damon | 8.3 | $976.1 million | Peacock, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, FlixFling, Spectrum On Demand online |
| 6 | Lawrence of Arabia | Adventure, Biography, Drama, War | 3h 38m | David Lean | Peter O’Toole, Alec Guinness, Anthony Quinn | 8.3 | $70 million | fuboTV, MGM Plus Amazon Channel, MGM Plus Roku Premium Channel, MGM Plus, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, Spectrum On Demand online |
| 7 | The Elephant Man | Biography, Drama | 2h 4m | David Lynch | Anthony Hopkins, John Hurt, Anne Bancroft | 8.2 | $26 million | Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel, Hoopla, Crackle, Pluto TV, Amazon Video, Microsoft Store, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu |
| 8 | Napoléon | Biography, Drama, History, War | 5h 30m | Abel Gance | Albert Dieudonné, Gina Manès, Antonin Artaud | 8.2 | $2.5 million (1981 reissue) | Amazon Prime Video Channels, the Apple TV app and The Roku Channel |
| 9 | 12 Years a Slave | Biography, Drama, History | 2h 14m | Steve McQueen | Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender | 8.1 | $187.7 million | Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, Spectrum On Demand online, AMC on Demand |
| 10 | Raging Bull | Biography, Drama, Sport | 2h 9m | Martin Scorsese | Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, Cathy Moriarty | 8.1 | $23.4 million | fuboTV, MGM Plus Amazon Channel, MGM Plus Roku Premium Channel, Hoopla, MGM Plus, The Roku Channel, Tubi TV, Pluto TV, Microsoft Store, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu |
1. Schindler’s List (1993)
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Genres: Adventure, Drama, War
Runtime: 3 hours 15 minutes
Director: Steven Spielberg
Writer: Steven Zaillian
Stars: Liam Neeson, Ben Kingsley, Ralph Fiennes, Caroline Goodall
Producers: Steven Spielberg, Gerald R. Molen, Branko Lustig
Release Date: December 15, 1993
IMDB Rating: 9
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 98%
JustWatch Rating: 97%
Box Office Collection: $322.2 million
Famous Quote: “Whoever saves one life, saves the world entire.”
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Showtime Apple TV Channel, AMC on Demand, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu
Summary
Ah, gather ’round, dear readers, for a tale as riveting as a roller coaster ride through the peaks and valleys of human resilience and compassion. Picture this: a cinematic masterpiece that’s not just a movie, but a journey into the heart of darkness and the triumph of the human spirit. Yes, I’m talking about none other than “Schindler’s List” – a film that hits harder than a punch from a heavyweight champion and leaves you pondering life’s complexities like a philosopher lost in thought.
Directed by the legendary Steven Spielberg, this epic adventure takes us back to the harrowing days of World War II, where the shadows of evil loomed large over Europe. But fear not, for amidst the chaos and despair, there shines a beacon of hope in the form of Oskar Schindler, played with utmost gravitas by Liam Neeson. With his wit as sharp as a samurai sword, Schindler embarks on a mission to save as many lives as he can, defying the odds and risking everything for the greater good.
Joined by a stellar cast including the likes of Ben Kingsley, Ralph Fiennes, and Caroline Goodall, Spielberg weaves a tapestry of emotions that’ll have you laughing, crying, and cheering in equal measure. And let’s not forget that iconic quote – “Whoever saves one life, saves the world entire” – a mantra that resonates like a timeless melody in the cacophony of war.
With accolades aplenty and box office records shattered, “Schindler’s List” isn’t just a movie; it’s a cultural touchstone, a reminder of humanity’s capacity for both darkness and light. So, grab your popcorn, brace yourself for an emotional rollercoaster, and prepare to be moved like never before.
2. Goodfellas (1990)
Genres: Biography, Crime, Drama
Runtime: 2 hours 25 minutes
Director: Martin Scorsese
Writer: Nicholas Pileggi, Martin Scorsese
Stars: Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, Joe Pesci, Lorraine Bracco
Producer: Irwin Winkler
Release Date: September 19, 1990
IMDB Rating: 8.7
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 95%
JustWatch Rating: 97%
Box Office Collection: $47.1 million
Famous Quote: “As far back as I can remember, I always wanted to be a gangster.”
Where to Watch: Apple TV Plus, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, Spectrum On Demand online, AMC on Demand
Summary
Ah, let me regale you with the tale of “Goodfellas” – a cinematic journey through the underworld that’s as thrilling as a high-stakes poker game and as intoxicating as a sip of fine Italian wine. Directed by the maestro of mob movies himself, Martin Scorsese, this masterpiece is a symphony of crime, drama, and the allure of the dark side.
Picture this: the mean streets of New York City, where loyalty is everything and betrayal lurks around every corner. At the center of it all is Henry Hill, played with swagger by Ray Liotta, who dreams of nothing but the glamorous life of a gangster. Joined by a stellar cast including Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Lorraine Bracco, Scorsese paints a vivid portrait of the criminal underworld, where friendships are forged in blood and honor is a currency as valuable as gold.
But amidst the glitz and glamor, danger lurks in the shadows, ready to pounce at a moment’s notice. With razor-sharp dialogue and a soundtrack that’ll have you tapping your toes and holding your breath in equal measure, “Goodfellas” is a rollercoaster ride of emotions that’ll leave you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
And let’s not forget that iconic quote – “As far back as I can remember, I always wanted to be a gangster” – a declaration of intent that sets the tone for the entire film. With accolades aplenty and box office success to boot, “Goodfellas” isn’t just a movie; it’s a cultural phenomenon, a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences around the world. So, grab your fedora, shine your shoes, and prepare to be transported to a world where crime reigns supreme and loyalty is the ultimate currency.
3. The Pianist (2002)
Genres: Biography, Drama, Music, War
Runtime: 2 hours 30 minutes
Director: Roman Polanski
Writer: Ronald Harwood
Stars: Adrien Brody, Thomas Kretschmann, Frank Finlay, Maureen Lipman
Producer: Roman Polanski
Release Date: September 6, 2002
IMDB Rating: 8.5
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 95%
JustWatch Rating: 97%
Box Office Collection: $120.1 million
Famous Quote: “I want to thank you for saving my life.”
Where to Watch: Pluto TV, Amazon Prime Video, Microsoft Store, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Vudu, Google Play Movies, YouTube
Summary
Let me whisk you away to the hauntingly beautiful world of “The Pianist” – a cinematic masterpiece that’s as soul-stirring as a melody played on a grand piano and as heart-wrenching as a symphony of sorrow. Directed by the enigmatic Roman Polanski, this film is a journey through the depths of human resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.
Picture this: the war-torn streets of Warsaw during World War II, where chaos reigns supreme and the sounds of bombs echo like thunder. At the center of it all is Wladyslaw Szpilman, portrayed with haunting brilliance by Adrien Brody, whose piano playing transcends the horrors of war and offers solace in the midst of despair. Joined by a stellar cast including Thomas Kretschmann, Frank Finlay, and Maureen Lipman, Polanski paints a poignant portrait of survival against all odds.
But amidst the rubble and ruin, there shines a glimmer of hope – a ray of light in the darkness. With exquisite cinematography and a score that tugs at the heartstrings, “The Pianist” is a testament to the power of music and the indomitable human spirit. And let’s not forget that unforgettable quote – “I want to thank you for saving my life” – a poignant reminder of the bonds that form in the face of adversity.
With critical acclaim and box office success to boot, “The Pianist” isn’t just a movie; it’s a symphony of emotions, a masterpiece that resonates long after the credits roll. So, grab your tissues, brace yourself for an emotional rollercoaster, and prepare to be swept away by the haunting beauty of “The Pianist.”
4. Amadeus (1984)
Genres: Biography, Drama, Music
Runtime: 2 hours 40 minutes
Director: Miloš Forman
Writer: Peter Shaffer
Stars: F. Murray Abraham, Tom Hulce, Elizabeth Berridge, Simon Callow
Producer: Saul Zaentz
Release Date: September 19, 1984
IMDB Rating: 8.4
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 89%
JustWatch Rating: 95%
Box Office Collection: $90 million
Famous Quote: “I am a vulgar man. But I assure you, my music is not.”
Where to Watch: Netflix, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, Amazon Video online, AMC on Demand
Summary
Ah, let me whisk you away to the opulent courts of Vienna, where the sounds of Mozart’s music dance through the air like butterflies on a summer breeze. Welcome to “Amadeus” – a cinematic marvel that’s as grandiose as a symphony and as intimate as a sonata played in the dead of night. Directed by the masterful Miloš Forman, this film is a journey into the heart and soul of one of history’s greatest musical geniuses.
Picture this: the flamboyant figure of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, portrayed with gusto by Tom Hulce, whose talent knows no bounds and whose eccentricities are as legendary as his compositions. At his side is Antonio Salieri, played with haunting brilliance by F. Murray Abraham, whose jealousy and admiration for Mozart create a rivalry for the ages. Joined by a stellar cast including Elizabeth Berridge and Simon Callow, Forman weaves a tapestry of passion, ambition, and the pursuit of artistic perfection.
But amidst the glitz and glamour of Vienna’s high society, there lurks a darkness – a shadow that threatens to consume them all. With exquisite cinematography and a score that echoes with the strains of Mozart’s music, “Amadeus” is a feast for the senses, a celebration of creativity and the human spirit. And let’s not forget that unforgettable quote – “I am a vulgar man. But I assure you, my music is not” – a declaration of artistic intent that resonates like a clarion call in the halls of history.
With critical acclaim and box office success to boot, “Amadeus” isn’t just a movie; it’s a symphony of emotions, a masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences around the world. So, grab your powdered wigs, dust off your harpsichords, and prepare to be transported to a world where music reigns supreme and genius knows no bounds.
5. Oppenheimer (2023)
Genres: Biography, Drama, History
Runtime: 3 hours
Director: Christopher Nolan
Writer: Christopher Nolan
Stars: Cillian Murphy, Emily Blunt, Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr.
Producer: Emma Thomas, Charles Roven
Release Date: July 21, 2023
IMDB Rating: 8.3
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 93%
JustWatch Rating: 93%
Box Office Collection: $976.1 million
Famous Quote: “Now I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds.”
Where to Watch: Peacock, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, FlixFling, Spectrum On Demand online
Summary
Step right up, dear readers, and brace yourselves for a cinematic experience that’s as explosive as the atom bomb itself. Welcome to the world of “Oppenheimer” – a film that delves into the mind of the man who changed the course of history forever. Directed by the visionary Christopher Nolan, this epic biography is a three-hour journey through the labyrinth of science, morality, and the human condition.
Picture this: the enigmatic figure of J. Robert Oppenheimer, brought to life with intense brilliance by Cillian Murphy. His piercing gaze and contemplative demeanor draw you into a world where scientific discovery and moral dilemmas collide like titans in a battlefield. Joined by a stellar cast including Emily Blunt, Matt Damon, and Robert Downey Jr., Nolan crafts a narrative that’s as intricate and powerful as the forces unleashed by the atomic bomb.
But it’s not just about the science. It’s about the man behind the bomb – his fears, his hopes, and the weight of the world resting on his shoulders. With stunning cinematography and a gripping score, “Oppenheimer” is more than a film; it’s a thought-provoking exploration of humanity’s greatest achievements and darkest moments. And who can forget that chilling quote – “Now I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds” – words that echo through the corridors of history like a solemn requiem.
With critical acclaim and a staggering box office collection, “Oppenheimer” stands tall as a cinematic tour de force. So, grab your popcorn, settle into your seats, and prepare to be captivated by a story that’s as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally profound. This is a film that not only entertains but also challenges you to ponder the profound questions of existence, responsibility, and the pursuit of knowledge.
6. Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
Genres: Adventure, Biography, Drama, War
Runtime: 3 hours 38 minutes
Director: David Lean
Writers: Robert Bolt, Michael Wilson
Stars: Peter O’Toole, Alec Guinness, Anthony Quinn, Jack Hawkins
Producer: Sam Spiegel
Release Date: December 10, 1962
IMDB Rating: 8.3
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 93%
JustWatch Rating: 92%
Box Office Collection: $70 million
Famous Quote: “Nothing is written.”
Where to Watch: fuboTV, MGM Plus Amazon Channel, MGM Plus Roku Premium Channel, MGM Plus, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, Spectrum On Demand online
Summary
Ah, gather ’round, film enthusiasts, and let me transport you to the sweeping deserts of Arabia with a cinematic epic that’s as vast and majestic as the landscapes it portrays. Welcome to “Lawrence of Arabia” – a film that stands as a towering monument in the annals of cinema, directed by the legendary David Lean. This adventure is more than a movie; it’s a journey into the soul of a man and the heart of a nation.
Picture this: the enigmatic figure of T.E. Lawrence, played with charismatic intensity by Peter O’Toole, whose blue eyes pierce through the sandy haze like a beacon. His journey is one of self-discovery and heroism, as he unites warring Arab tribes against a common enemy. Joined by a stellar cast including Alec Guinness, Anthony Quinn, and Jack Hawkins, Lean crafts a narrative as intricate as the shifting desert sands.
But it’s not all camels and dunes. Amidst the grand battles and sweeping vistas, there lies a profound exploration of identity and destiny. With cinematography that captures the stark beauty of the desert and a score that echoes like a haunting melody, “Lawrence of Arabia” is a feast for the senses. And let’s not forget the film’s iconic quote – “Nothing is written” – a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the belief that we are the authors of our own fate.
With accolades aplenty and a box office success that still resonates, “Lawrence of Arabia” isn’t just a film; it’s an epic saga that continues to captivate audiences. So, dust off your explorer’s hat, saddle up your camel, and prepare to be swept away by a story that’s as grand and timeless as the desert itself. This is a cinematic adventure where legends are born and destinies are forged in the heat of the Arabian sun.
7. The Elephant Man (1980)
Genres: Biography, Drama
Runtime: 2 hours 4 minutes
Director: David Lynch
Writers: Christopher De Vore, Eric Bergren, David Lynch
Stars: Anthony Hopkins, John Hurt, Anne Bancroft, Freddie Jones
Producer: Jonathan Sanger, Mel Brooks (uncredited)
Release Date: N/A
IMDB Rating: 8.2
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 92%
JustWatch Rating: 93%
Box Office Collection: $26 million
Famous Quote: “I am not an animal! I am a human being! I am a man!”
Where to Watch: Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel, Hoopla, Crackle, Pluto TV, Amazon Video, Microsoft Store, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu
Summary
Step right up, ladies and gentlemen, for a journey into the extraordinary and the poignant with “The Elephant Man” – a film that is as touching as a lullaby and as haunting as a ghost story whispered in the dark. Directed by the enigmatic David Lynch, this biographical drama takes us into the life of John Merrick, a man whose physical deformities could not overshadow his profound humanity.
Picture this: the Victorian streets of London, where the air is thick with fog and mystery. Enter Dr. Frederick Treves, played by the impeccable Anthony Hopkins, who discovers John Merrick, the “Elephant Man,” portrayed with heartbreaking sensitivity by John Hurt. Lynch, with his unique vision, paints a world where beauty and cruelty coexist, making us question what it truly means to be human.
But don’t be fooled – this isn’t a tale of mere pity. It’s a celebration of the human spirit’s resilience and the capacity for compassion. With a stellar cast including Anne Bancroft and Freddie Jones, “The Elephant Man” weaves a narrative that tugs at the heartstrings and challenges societal norms. And let’s not forget that iconic declaration – “I am not an animal! I am a human being! I am a man!” – a cry for dignity that echoes through the ages.
With critical acclaim and a box office success that speaks volumes, “The Elephant Man” isn’t just a movie; it’s a profound statement on human decency and the search for acceptance. So, grab your handkerchiefs, prepare for an emotional rollercoaster, and immerse yourself in a story where empathy and understanding triumph over ignorance and fear. This is a film that stays with you, like a cherished memory or a powerful dream, long after the screen fades to black.
8. Napoléon (1927)
Genres: Biography, Drama, History, War
Runtime: 5 hours 30 minutes
Director: Abel Gance
Writer: Abel Gance
Stars: Albert Dieudonné, Gina Manès, Antonin Artaud, Edmond Van Daële
Release Date: April 7, 1927
IMDB Rating: 8.2
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 58%
JustWatch Rating: 50%
Box Office Collection: $2.5 million (1981 reissue)
Famous Quote: “Impossible n’est pas français.”
Where to Watch: Amazon,the Apple TV app andThe Roku Channel
Summary
Ah, dear readers, prepare to embark on an epic journey through the annals of history with “Napoléon” – a film as grand and ambitious as its titular character. Directed by the visionary Abel Gance, this silent-era masterpiece is a sprawling tapestry of biography, drama, history, and war, capturing the rise of one of history’s most formidable figures.
Picture this: the young and fiery Napoléon Bonaparte, brought to life with commanding presence by Albert Dieudonné, charting his meteoric ascent from humble beginnings to imperial grandeur. With a runtime that’s longer than most modern marathons at five hours and thirty minutes, Gance’s magnum opus doesn’t just tell a story; it immerses you in the whirlwind of Napoléon’s life and times.
Joined by a stellar cast including Gina Manès, Antonin Artaud, and Edmond Van Daële, “Napoléon” is a visual feast, with innovative techniques that were groundbreaking for its time. Gance’s use of triptychs and rapid montage sequences gives the film a dynamic energy that mirrors Napoléon’s own relentless drive and ambition.
But it’s not all about battles and conquests. At its heart, “Napoléon” is a deeply human story, exploring the complexities of power, ambition, and destiny. And who can forget the iconic quote – “Impossible n’est pas français” – a motto that encapsulates Napoléon’s indomitable spirit and his belief in the boundless possibilities of human potential.
Despite its initial release in 1927, the film’s reissue in 1981 brought it to a wider audience, cementing its place in the pantheon of cinematic greats. With mixed reviews but undeniable historical significance, “Napoléon” is more than a movie; it’s a monumental achievement in film history. So, gather your courage, settle in for a marathon viewing session, and prepare to be swept away by the epic saga of a man who reshaped the world in his image. This is cinema at its most grandiose and inspiring.
9. 12 Years a Slave (2013)
Genres: Biography, Drama, History
Runtime: 2 hours 14 minutes
Director: Steve McQueen
Writer: John Ridley
Stars: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender, Benedict Cumberbatch, Lupita Nyong’o
Producers: Brad Pitt, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, Bill Pohlad, Steve McQueen, Arnon Milchan, Anthony Katagas
Release Date: January 31, 2014
IMDB Rating: 8.1
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 95%
JustWatch Rating: 95%
Box Office Collection: $187.7 million
Famous Quote: “I don’t want to survive. I want to live.”
Where to Watch: Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, Spectrum On Demand online, AMC on Demand
Summary
Step right up and bear witness to a powerful tale of resilience and humanity with “12 Years a Slave” – a film that grips the soul and refuses to let go. Directed by the unflinching Steve McQueen, this biographical drama takes us on an unforgettable journey through the darkest chapters of American history, illuminating the indomitable spirit of one man.
Picture this: the harrowing life of Solomon Northup, portrayed with heartrending brilliance by Chiwetel Ejiofor, a free black man from New York who is deceitfully kidnapped and sold into slavery. His story unfolds against a backdrop of unimaginable cruelty and relentless hope. With a cast that includes Michael Fassbender as the ruthless plantation owner, Benedict Cumberbatch as a conflicted benefactor, and Lupita Nyong’o in an Oscar-winning performance as the tragically enduring Patsey, McQueen crafts a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
But “12 Years a Slave” is not just a recounting of historical atrocities. It’s a testament to the human spirit’s unyielding desire for freedom and dignity. With stunning cinematography and a hauntingly beautiful score, the film is a visceral experience, making you feel every moment of anguish and triumph. And who can forget Solomon’s poignant declaration – “I don’t want to survive. I want to live.” – a powerful affirmation of his humanity and yearning for true freedom.
Critically acclaimed and a box office triumph, “12 Years a Slave” stands as a cinematic landmark, a film that not only educates but also deeply moves its audience. So, prepare to be immersed in a story of strength, endurance, and the relentless pursuit of justice. This is a film that will leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind, reminding us all of the enduring power of the human spirit.
10. Raging Bull (1980)
Genres: Biography, Drama, Sport
Runtime: 2 hours 9 minutes
Director: Martin Scorsese
Writer: Jake LaMotta (based on the book by), Joseph Carter (with)
Stars: Robert De Niro, Cathy Moriarty, Joe Pesci, Frank Vincent
Producers: Irwin Winkler, Robert Chartoff
Release Date: December 19, 1980
IMDB Rating: 8.1
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 92%
JustWatch Rating: 92%
Box Office Collection: $23.4 million
Famous Quote: “You never got me down, Ray.”
Where to Watch: fuboTV, MGM Plus Amazon Channel, MGM Plus Roku Premium Channel, Hoopla, MGM Plus, The Roku Channel, Tubi TV, Pluto TV, Microsoft Store, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu
Summary
Ladies and gentlemen, lace up your gloves and step into the ring with “Raging Bull,” a cinematic heavyweight that packs a punch both literally and emotionally. Directed by the incomparable Martin Scorsese, this biographical drama and sports epic tells the turbulent story of boxer Jake LaMotta, whose life inside and outside the ring is as brutal as his punches.
Picture this: Robert De Niro, in one of his most iconic roles, embodies Jake LaMotta with an intensity that’s almost palpable. His transformation – both physical and emotional – is a tour de force, capturing LaMotta’s ferocity and vulnerability. Alongside him, Joe Pesci delivers a knockout performance as Joey, LaMotta’s loyal but often exasperated brother, while Cathy Moriarty shines as Vickie, LaMotta’s long-suffering wife. With a stellar cast that also includes Frank Vincent, Scorsese crafts a narrative that’s as raw and visceral as the sport it portrays.
But “Raging Bull” isn’t just about boxing. It’s a deep dive into the psyche of a man battling his own demons as fiercely as he battles his opponents. The film’s black-and-white cinematography adds a gritty realism, and Scorsese’s direction turns each fight scene into a ballet of brutality and grace. And then there’s that unforgettable line – “You never got me down, Ray.” – a defiant declaration of resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.
With critical acclaim and a respectable box office collection, “Raging Bull” stands as a testament to Scorsese’s genius and De Niro’s unparalleled talent. It’s more than a movie; it’s a portrait of a flawed, complex man whose struggle for redemption is both tragic and inspiring. So, put up your dukes, grab some popcorn, and prepare to be riveted by a story that hits as hard emotionally as it does physically. This is cinema at its most powerful and profound.
Anas Chaudhary is a writer at Entertainment 24 Seven, specializing in entertainment news, facts, and trends. He brings a fresh perspective and engaging storytelling to his coverage of the latest happenings in the entertainment world.