Watch Robert De Niro’s Knockout Performance in ‘Once Upon a Time in America’

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For more than five impressive decades, the talented actor Robert De Niro has continued to captivate audiences worldwide with exceptional performances. Known as one of the best actors of his time, the two-time Oscar winner is frequently seen in critically acclaimed movies. In 1984, he collaborated with legendary filmmaker Sergio Leone on the crime masterpiece “Once Upon a Time in America,” which was based on Harry Grey’s novel “The Hoods.

In “The Alto Knights,” directed by De Niro, we find an ensemble cast led by James Woods, Joe Pesci, and Elizabeth McGovern. This powerful film depicts the tale of two friends striving to rise above poverty and establish themselves as some of New York City’s most feared and respected gangsters during the 1920s and ’30s. De Niro has proven his affinity for the gangster genre throughout his career, and in “The Alto Knights,” he continues to demonstrate his passion for crime dramas. For a captivating performance, be sure to watch De Niro in “Once Upon a Time in America.

Sergio Leone’s Trailblazing Gangster Masterpiece

Sergio Leone, a trailblazer in cinema and icon of spaghetti Westerns, directed his last masterpiece, the 1984 epic crime drama “Once Upon a Time in America“, which showcases an impressive ensemble including Robert De Niro, James Woods, Elizabeth McGovern, and Joe Pesci. The story follows the deep bond between two Jewish gangsters, David “Noodles” Aaronson (De Niro) and Maximilian “Max” Bercovicz (Woods), as they strive for power in New York City’s criminal underworld during the Prohibition era, starting from the Lower East Side.

Through a captivating sequence of flashbacks, we delve into Noodles’ remarkable journey – from poverty-stricken childhood in a Jewish slum to becoming a prominent bootlegger during the 1920s, and ultimately his descent from grace. Along this path, we witness the heartbreaking loss of his dearest companions and friends. In 1968, a somber Noodles, now an old man, recalls his turbulent past as a powerful Mafia leader. His life story is a complex tapestry woven with threads of power plays, difficult choices, and ultimately, heartbreak, betrayal, and loss.

De Niro and Woods Dominate the Gripping Crime Drama

As a devoted cinephile, I can’t help but share my fascination with the making of Sergio Leone’s masterpiece, “The Hoods,” inspired by Harry Grey’s novel. The story captivated me in the mid ’60s, and it was this passion that led Leone to turn down the chance to direct “The Godfather” and instead focus on his dream project. Producer Arnon Milchan proposed Hollywood heartthrob Robert De Niro for the lead role, and after meeting with him, Leone presented De Niro with the choice between portraying Noodles or Max. De Niro’s involvement and unwavering dedication to the role not only solidified his commitment but also helped secure crucial financing for the film.

Originally, “Once Upon a Time in America” had its glamorous debut at the Cannes Film Festival on May 20, 1984. It was met with an extended 15-minute standing ovation from the crowd, but American viewers were not as enthusiastic, with some critics labeling it one of the worst films of that year. The American adaptation of the crime drama differed significantly from the European version, as Director Leone’s final cut was drastically shortened from 229 minutes to just 139 minutes, which greatly disappointed the esteemed filmmaker.

As a movie enthusiast, I must confess that initially, I was left underwhelmed by the film, which flopped at the box office with a meager $5.5 million earnings against a hefty $30 million budget. The disappointment was palpable among critics who had seen Leone’s original cut showcased at Cannes and were outraged by the creative alterations made in the final version.

However, as time has passed, Leone’s version of the film has been hailed as one of the greatest cinematic masterpieces ever created and a defining work within the gangster genre. This epic tale, brimming with thought-provoking themes like loss, childhood camaraderie, deceit, and love, has left audiences spellbound by its depth and brilliance. The exceptional cast delivers performances that are nothing short of phenomenal, further enhancing the film’s enduring appeal.

Robert De Niro consistently showcased his remarkable acting abilities as the multifaceted and regretful character, Noodles. Throughout his career, this Academy Award-winner has solidified himself as the leading man on the silver screen for intense gangster roles. Over time, he appeared in numerous crime dramas focusing on mobsters and the Mafia, with notable films like “Goodfellas,” “A Bronx Tale,” “Casino,” and “The Irishman.” In 2025, De Niro took on the challenging task of portraying both Vito Genovese and Frank Costello in the gripping biopic “The Alto Knights,” further solidifying his position as Hollywood’s foremost movie gangster.

How To Watch ‘Once Upon a Time in America’

Enthusiasts who adore Robert De Niro, Sergio Leone, and gangster films – or a combination of the three – can easily watch the ’80s masterpiece “Once Upon a Time in America” on Amazon Prime Video. Alternatively, you can rent or purchase it on other streaming platforms such as Apple TV+ and Fandango.

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2025-03-24 03:08