Often described as the greatest actor of his generation, De niro has created a body of work which could easily rival the work of his contemporaries. This list counts down (in order) the actors 10 finest performances in film, all the more important given that the actor as of late has devoted himself to self parody.

#10 HEAT NEAL McCAULEY

Starring opposite to fellow thespian Al Pacino, De Niro gives his last virtuoso performance as disciplined criminal mastermind Neal McCauley. Though both actors had previously appeared in the Godfather Part II, they had not actually shared any screen time together......... lets not even talk about the abysmal "Righteous Kill".

# 9 GREETINGS JON RUBIN

Making his debut in De Palma's Greetings, De Niro's comedic turn as Rubin perfectly captures the zeitgeist of the late 1960's. Unlike De Niro's recent comedy ventures which have generally been disappointing and have seen a loss in screen presence from the star.

#8 THE DEER HUNTER MICHAEL VRONSKY

The Deer Hunter was released in 1978 and explored the devastating impact the Vietnam War had on three close friends. Generally regarded as one of the greatest war movies ever, De Niro took on the multi-faceted role of Michael, who is initially a man with a short temper and a ruthless soldier but by the end of the film has become a bittersweet veteran. Despite the films success it was riddled with controversy, mainly stemming from the infamous Russian Roulette scene. Though historically inaccurate the scene was undeniably powerful and allowed De Niro to put his talents to work by unleashing Michael's rage to spectacular affect.

# 7 ONCE UPON A TIME IN AMERICA DAVID "NOOODLES" AARONSON
De Niro gave a powerfully restrained performance as Jewish gangster "Noodles"in Sergio Leone's gangster epic. Through Noodles De niro was able to radiate a deep sense of regret and sorrow which lingers on well after the film has finished.

# 6 MIDNIGHT RUN JACK WALSH
De Niro and Grodin proved to be the ultimate teaming in this hit comedy. Who could have known that such an odd couple would have such great comedic chemistry. Whilst most of the laughs come from Grodin, De Niro proves to be a good foil for him. De niro plays a very likable bounty hunter and the scene where he meets his daughter, showcases some of his best acting ever. The film just goes to show that the best comedies actually make you feel sad. Rumor has it De Niro plans to reprise the role of Jack and direct a sequel to this movie- ... if it ain't broke don't fix it!!!

 # 5 TAXI DRIVER TRAVIS BICKLE

Playing ex Vietnam war veteran and social misfit, De Niro gives what many believe to be his most compelling performance. Bickle remains De Niro's most iconic character to date and his performance is sure to prompt many questions about Travis even after the credits have rolled.

                                          

# 4 MEAN STREETS JOHNNY BOY
Whist "Bang The Drum Slowly" helped De Niro gain some recognition it was his turn as Johnny Boy in Mean Streets which was his breakout role. The film also marked the first of many fruitful collaborations with director Martin Scorcesse. Johnny Boy is a maniac street punk who enjoys putting bombs in mail boxes and chucking dynamite of rooftops. Played brilliantly with his trademark crooked grin, this is perhaps De Niro's most dynamic role




# 3 THE GODFATHER PART II
VITO CORLEONE  Taking on the near impossible task of reprising the iconic role of Vito Corleone previously played by Brando, De Niro rises to the occasion giving one of his most memorable performances. As the young Vito De Niro gives a very suave performance whereby he learnt to speak Sicilian and was able to subtly convey the mannerisms of Brando. He received his first academy award for best supporting actor, deservedly so.

#2 THE KING OF COMEDY RUPERT PUPKIN

A film which holds more relevance today than when it was first released back in 1982. De Niro turns in a vintage performance as Rupert Pupkin, the delusional wannabe standup comedian who is comically unfunny and desperately seeks fame. In fact he plays the part so well that it is often painful for the viewer to watch him in action. All the more important given the celebrity worship society we currently live in.

#1 RAGING BULL JAKE LA MOTTA
Taking on the role of the pugnacious, irascible boxer and later a puffy faced washed up entertainer , De niro rises to the occasion and gives a knockout performance. Known for his extreme commitment to roles De Niro gained 60 pounds to play the part and whilst his physical transformation was impressive this is not what makes the performance so spectacular. What elevates the role is his ability to air out all of La Motta's demons for all to see drawing the viewers contempt and pity in equal measure.