Favorite Martin Scorsese film of all time. It's a tragic portrait that reflects the consequences of not facing our own insecurites, lacking self control and how it affects you and everyone you love. This movie hit me hard.
I think at the end of the movie Jake finds salvation. He realises that everyone around him is gone because of his rage and jealousy. ( this is evident because he hits himself and yells "why" in his jail cell). He tries to apologize to his wife and his bro and get them back in his life. At the end jake wants to make himself believe that his brother caused his downfall and he has a victim complex. But deep down he knows that his flaw are also to blame for his downfall. (This is evident because of how unconvincingly he says "it was you charlie" as if he he trying to convince himself that his bro caused his downfall even though he knows he didn't. He even calls himself a bum and realises that he could have been a contender if not for his jealousy and rage). Scorsese is trying to suggest that Jake will forever be alone because he does not want to take full accountability for his actions(he partially blamed his brother even though his bro had helped him so much) He says "im the boss" even though he is clearly overweight and finished. This is really sad but it also suggestes that Jake has a few good things about him for example his self belief (even when he was nothing he believed he was the boss) and determination. The movie ends with a quote which suggests that jake was blinded by his rage but now he can see the reality and he is calmer and peaceful. The ending is really ambiguous and open to interpretation. Whether or not jake finds salvation is something many critics argue about. What we cant argue about is the fact that raging bull is a masterpiece about how rage, jealousy and insecurity can destroy a man and lead to his downfall.
I didn't really see the same level of redemption in this film as you did. For me, it was much darker. At the end, Lamotta was no longer suffering, but that was only because he had finally lost everything. Thus, there was nothing else the world could take from him. He was absolved perhaps, but not redeemed. To be redeemed is to be reborn. Lamotta was simply given the peace of death.
I think the reason why you didn’t see the ending of Raging Bull as LaMotta’s redemption is because everytime that it seemed like if LaMotta is going to change, he would always mess things up, and it makes you feel that he would never change. It’s like seeing a family member who would always beg forgiveness after acting like an angry animal; first time, okay, everybody makes mistakes. The second, knock it off! The third, fuck off!
@@DeadlyAlienInvader Yeah, that's part of the brilliance of the movie. It's a genuine tragedy, because Lamotta's rise to success and his eventual downfall were both the result of one thing: his unstoppable rage. When this rage was directed towards an opponent in the ring, it led to victory. But it wasn't something that Lamotta could just turn off. It was woven into the core of his being. And so it followed him everywhere. And everywhere *outside* the ring, it was a curse. It destroyed everything he cared about. It took everything from him. In the end, Lamotta still has the same rage inside of him. His little shadow-boxing before his comedy act shows that. The only reason it isn't destructive anymore is because Lamotta has been so thoroughly destroyed that he has become powerless, and therefore harmless. He's like a bull with its legs broken. This isn't redemption. It is perhaps a kind of mercy, but that's debateable. I think the complexity of that issue is part of the reason this is such an incredibly powerful film.
@Christopher Sadler I was reflecting on your reply when I wrote the comment above to "DeadlyAlienInvader". Thank you for reminding me why I love this movie so much.
The chapter on Raging Bull in Scorsese on Scorsese is fantastic, well worth a read if you haven't. There was an unbelievable creativity that came from Scorsese reaching rock bottom. Working his hardest on what he believed could be his final film, he reached a point where he caused himself serious physical harm by ignoring his health conditions and stress. All culminating in one of the finest pieces of cinema and a true example of excellence in an already brilliant filmography. Great video Mr Draper, you're getting better and better! I already can't wait for the next one. xx
Wen Bilson Thanks! And great thoughts on this movie. Scorsese is a true filmmaking master and I think this is easily one of his deepest works, which is definitely due to what he was going through at the time. Keep up the awesome work on your videos!
I remember reading that years ago. One image that stays with me is his marathon editing sessions wired on no sleep and, IIRC, cocaine. Marty is a huge influence.
Overall great video. I recently wrote my term paper on a similar analysis of the film. A couple of notes, you call his brother “Tommy,” but his name is Joey. And also the clip you included about nights out turning violent is specifically the night where Jake isn’t present. That was Joey beating up Salvy.
Here is how I would rank Scorsese's films, staring De Nero and Pesci: 4-"Goodfellas" (1990) 3-"The Irishman" (2019) 2-"Casino" (1995) 1-"Ragging Bull" (1980)
My list is specifically affiliated with two actors and a director that have worked with each other. Those two actors were Joe Peshi and Robert De Nero's artistic collaboration with director Martin Scorsese. He did direct "The Departed" (2006). But Peshi and Dr Nero did not perform in that film. The four movies De Nero, and Peshi worked on together with Scorsese were "Raging Bull" (1980), "Goodfellas" (1990), "Casino" (1995), and "The Irishman" (2019). Does this make sense to you?
Raging Bull is really a dark satire, a divine black comedy - at the expense of the boxing genre. Just as Taxi Driver savages Charles Bronson's Death Wish, Raging Bull batters Rocky into oblivion. As Scorsese shows us boxers are not all gentle giants outside the ring - they can be violent, paranoid bullies who beat their wives and brothers just like they do their opponents. But within the darkness and violence of the working class 'neighbourhood' Scorsese sees redemption. He seems to imply that the working class in their suffering and violence are closer to god, than the great and the good. The mean streets are the path to true redemption. Hence Jesus hung with the Prostitutes, Alcoholics and thieves. Not that La Motta's path to redemption is the usual cliched route, La Motta is still a vulgar fat slob, a sleazy but useless stand up comedian. On the surface he's gone to seed, but from where the movie started - to where it ends, a miracle of sorts has transpired, La Motta is no angel, but he's softened, he's accepted his wife's divorce, he's made up with his brother. He's found his way out of the human jungle to find some peace.
@@MrWhatam1 Wasn't much to laugh at in Dante either. The comedy is there, it's just very black - don't know whether to fuck him or fight him; ''ya'mother sucks elephant dick', then there's the crazy golf,, the ice water on the balls, the whole opening scene with the riot. It's all a little farcical - but dark farce, very dark farce. I say Scorsese is channeling Dante, there's a Dante thing going through most of his movies. Hell has its funnies, as well as its tragedies.especially to the Italian mindset
This was a brilliant movie. I had read the book long before the movie came out. I thought wow what a story. I eventually bought the collectors DVD Raging Bull movie. The interviews were great and listening to Jake LaMotta talk about his life the book and the movie We're terrific. Rest in peace champ.🥊🥊🥊🥊🥊🥊🥊🥊🥊.
Great job. I had seen the movie several times, but I don't know didn't pick up on all the points you go into, especially the loss to Robinson. I really enjoy your channel.
Wow, I understand this movie now! It's like you helped me understand a person that gave me a really bad first impression. I now see why some people call this a masterpiece. I still don't care to watch that movie again, because of the abrasive main character, but I now understand the story Scorsese was aiming to tell. Thanks!
Great cinematic work. A true love for old films. I love how jake is truly the protagonist in the film and there is no road to “redemption”. I’m glad they did not attempt to sugar coat his true character. A lot of scenes make me feel uncomfortable, but the good kind. The kind of uncomfortableness that makes you think. The real jake was an abusive narcissist jerk.
Robert de Niro acted in so many outstanding movies, so he has a good gut. But beyond that, he made many of them. For me he's one of 3 GOATs of all living actors ,and yeah i'm fully award of the last third of his work.
Dude this is one of your best videos how does it have so few views?! I haven't watched Raging Bull, but this just really made me want to. I think this is next on my list after Chinatown.
Poor kids! His brother's children witnessed their Uncle Jake come out of nowhere and beat up his Dad, hit his Aunt Vicky and their mother in the thick of it. If memory serves, Pesci slapping his son in the face just before Uncle Jake strode in.
Raging Bull is one of the most overrated movies ever. The whole movie is about a man unwilling or/and unable to change his disgusting, animalistic behavior. There is no repentance whatsoever. In the end he still is the same idiot chearing himselm: "I am the boss..." He even manages to blame his brother for his own bad deeds and instead of apologizing to him sincerely, he (the violent thug) preasure him into a hug as if nothing really happened. And the quote at the end is beyond obnoxious.
I believe the ending scene with LaMotta reciting his lines while looking in the mirror is actually him talking to the bad side of his character and blaming his anger for his downfall.
Exactly. Some people can't, won't and don't want to change. IMO unless it's done well films where people start off horrible but change and become good at the end are cliche whereas films about awful people who stay that way are a lot more realistic. Some people change but others don't. Despite what some people believe not everyone does.
Favorite Martin Scorsese film of all time. It's a tragic portrait that reflects the consequences of not facing our own insecurites, lacking self control and how it affects you and everyone you love. This movie hit me hard.
I think at the end of the movie Jake finds salvation. He realises that everyone around him is gone because of his rage and jealousy. ( this is evident because he hits himself and yells "why" in his jail cell). He tries to apologize to his wife and his bro and get them back in his life. At the end jake wants to make himself believe that his brother caused his downfall and he has a victim complex. But deep down he knows that his flaw are also to blame for his downfall. (This is evident because of how unconvincingly he says "it was you charlie" as if he he trying to convince himself that his bro caused his downfall even though he knows he didn't. He even calls himself a bum and realises that he could have been a contender if not for his jealousy and rage). Scorsese is trying to suggest that Jake will forever be alone because he does not want to take full accountability for his actions(he partially blamed his brother even though his bro had helped him so much) He says "im the boss" even though he is clearly overweight and finished. This is really sad but it also suggestes that Jake has a few good things about him for example his self belief (even when he was nothing he believed he was the boss) and determination. The movie ends with a quote which suggests that jake was blinded by his rage but now he can see the reality and he is calmer and peaceful. The ending is really ambiguous and open to interpretation. Whether or not jake finds salvation is something many critics argue about. What we cant argue about is the fact that raging bull is a masterpiece about how rage, jealousy and insecurity can destroy a man and lead to his downfall.
There's another movie called bronx bull and it shows his self exeption that he did it to himself and only has nothing left to live for and is humble
@@gavinfox1678 never heard of that one Bronx Bull. Must check it out.
I didn't really see the same level of redemption in this film as you did. For me, it was much darker.
At the end, Lamotta was no longer suffering, but that was only because he had finally lost everything. Thus, there was nothing else the world could take from him.
He was absolved perhaps, but not redeemed. To be redeemed is to be reborn. Lamotta was simply given the peace of death.
I think the reason why you didn’t see the ending of Raging Bull as LaMotta’s redemption is because everytime that it seemed like if LaMotta is going to change, he would always mess things up, and it makes you feel that he would never change. It’s like seeing a family member who would always beg forgiveness after acting like an angry animal; first time, okay, everybody makes mistakes. The second, knock it off! The third, fuck off!
@@DeadlyAlienInvader Yeah, that's part of the brilliance of the movie. It's a genuine tragedy, because Lamotta's rise to success and his eventual downfall were both the result of one thing: his unstoppable rage. When this rage was directed towards an opponent in the ring, it led to victory. But it wasn't something that Lamotta could just turn off. It was woven into the core of his being. And so it followed him everywhere. And everywhere *outside* the ring, it was a curse. It destroyed everything he cared about. It took everything from him. In the end, Lamotta still has the same rage inside of him. His little shadow-boxing before his comedy act shows that. The only reason it isn't destructive anymore is because Lamotta has been so thoroughly destroyed that he has become powerless, and therefore harmless. He's like a bull with its legs broken. This isn't redemption. It is perhaps a kind of mercy, but that's debateable. I think the complexity of that issue is part of the reason this is such an incredibly powerful film.
@Christopher Sadler I was reflecting on your reply when I wrote the comment above to "DeadlyAlienInvader". Thank you for reminding me why I love this movie so much.
Agreed, there was no redemption that I observed, it was a self-induced human tragedy, completely.
The chapter on Raging Bull in Scorsese on Scorsese is fantastic, well worth a read if you haven't.
There was an unbelievable creativity that came from Scorsese reaching rock bottom. Working his hardest on what he believed could be his final film, he reached a point where he caused himself serious physical harm by ignoring his health conditions and stress. All culminating in one of the finest pieces of cinema and a true example of excellence in an already brilliant filmography.
Great video Mr Draper, you're getting better and better! I already can't wait for the next one. xx
Wen Bilson Thanks! And great thoughts on this movie. Scorsese is a true filmmaking master and I think this is easily one of his deepest works, which is definitely due to what he was going through at the time. Keep up the awesome work on your videos!
I remember reading that years ago. One image that stays with me is his marathon editing sessions wired on no sleep and, IIRC, cocaine. Marty is a huge influence.
@@MattDraper you know IMDb ranked him number 2 in their list for greatest directors.
Is It better then Scagnetti on Scagnetti??
Overall great video. I recently wrote my term paper on a similar analysis of the film. A couple of notes, you call his brother “Tommy,” but his name is Joey. And also the clip you included about nights out turning violent is specifically the night where Jake isn’t present. That was Joey beating up Salvy.
Here is how I would rank Scorsese's films, staring De Nero and Pesci:
4-"Goodfellas" (1990)
3-"The Irishman" (2019)
2-"Casino" (1995)
1-"Ragging Bull" (1980)
I like taxi driver and cape fear instead of these gangster tough guy films
See king of comedy
I would highly recommend seeing the other films on the list. When you have seen the other movies, I would be interested in reading your list.
My list is specifically affiliated with two actors and a director that have worked with each other. Those two actors were Joe Peshi and Robert De Nero's artistic collaboration with director Martin Scorsese. He did direct "The Departed" (2006). But Peshi and Dr Nero did not perform in that film. The four movies De Nero, and Peshi worked on together with Scorsese were "Raging Bull" (1980), "Goodfellas" (1990), "Casino" (1995), and "The Irishman" (2019). Does this make sense to you?
@@GreatRedGeneral There was Another Movie Scorsese Did that was a Turn Away from his Gangster Movies Called ''HUGO''.
Raging Bull is really a dark satire, a divine black comedy - at the expense of the boxing genre. Just as Taxi Driver savages Charles Bronson's Death Wish, Raging Bull batters Rocky into oblivion.
As Scorsese shows us boxers are not all gentle giants outside the ring - they can be violent, paranoid bullies who beat their wives and brothers just like they do their opponents.
But within the darkness and violence of the working class 'neighbourhood' Scorsese sees redemption. He seems to imply that the working class in their suffering and violence are closer to god, than the great and the good. The mean streets are the path to true redemption. Hence Jesus hung with the Prostitutes, Alcoholics and thieves.
Not that La Motta's path to redemption is the usual cliched route, La Motta is still a vulgar fat slob, a sleazy but useless stand up comedian. On the surface he's gone to seed, but from where the movie started - to where it ends, a miracle of sorts has transpired, La Motta is no angel, but he's softened, he's accepted his wife's divorce, he's made up with his brother. He's found his way out of the human jungle to find some peace.
Like so fucking far from a comedy
just ask all the mrs. ray robinsons.
@@MrWhatam1 Wasn't much to laugh at in Dante either. The comedy is there, it's just very black - don't know whether to fuck him or fight him; ''ya'mother sucks elephant dick', then there's the crazy golf,, the ice water on the balls, the whole opening scene with the riot.
It's all a little farcical - but dark farce, very dark farce.
I say Scorsese is channeling Dante, there's a Dante thing going through most of his movies. Hell has its funnies, as well as its tragedies.especially to the Italian mindset
This was a brilliant movie. I had read the book long before the movie came out. I thought wow what a story. I eventually bought the collectors DVD Raging Bull movie. The interviews were great and listening to Jake LaMotta talk about his life the book and the movie We're terrific. Rest in peace champ.🥊🥊🥊🥊🥊🥊🥊🥊🥊.
I've loved this film ever since I first saw it love it one of the best
I feel like raging bull is a film that everyone no matter who they are has to see at one point in their life
Great job. I had seen the movie several times, but I don't know didn't pick up on all the points you go into, especially the loss to Robinson. I really enjoy your channel.
This is the most brilliant commentary on this film I have ever heard well done !
You have fantastic videos brother
Jesse Viveros Thank you so much!
Wow, I understand this movie now! It's like you helped me understand a person that gave me a really bad first impression. I now see why some people call this a masterpiece. I still don't care to watch that movie again, because of the abrasive main character, but I now understand the story Scorsese was aiming to tell. Thanks!
Thanks! That means a lot actually.
Gosh I loved this movie when I watched it but this review helps me appreciate it even more!
This is a beautiful observation and thesis of my favorite film great job!
By far and away the best film of the 80's
Fantastic review. 👍
Raging Bull is Scorsese’s auteurness laid bare. I love it
Great analysis and video!!! Thanx!!!
Great cinematic work. A true love for old films. I love how jake is truly the protagonist in the film and there is no road to “redemption”. I’m glad they did not attempt to sugar coat his true character. A lot of scenes make me feel uncomfortable, but the good kind. The kind of uncomfortableness that makes you think.
The real jake was an abusive narcissist jerk.
This is fantastic!
Fantastic analysis!
Robert de Niro acted in so many outstanding movies, so he has a good gut. But beyond that, he made many of them. For me he's one of 3 GOATs of all living actors ,and yeah i'm fully award of the last third of his work.
Raging bull came out in 1980
Jake laMotta in this movie is basically a bull in a China shop.
Dude this is one of your best videos how does it have so few views?!
I haven't watched Raging Bull, but this just really made me want to. I think this is next on my list after Chinatown.
Thank you! No idea, but I appreciate your kind words about it!
Genius visual thesis on this movie
What a beautiful video thesis
thank you
Classic film!
Btw the movie released in late 1980
His brother’s name is actually Joey, but this is a good video nonetheless
Poor kids! His brother's children witnessed their Uncle Jake come out of nowhere and beat up his Dad, hit his Aunt Vicky and their mother in the thick of it. If memory serves, Pesci slapping his son in the face just before Uncle Jake strode in.
Slow down speed racer, take it easy
This would make a great essay
Cool name
Purple Punch cheers
Raging Bull is one of the most overrated movies ever. The whole movie is about a man unwilling or/and unable to change his disgusting, animalistic behavior. There is no repentance whatsoever. In the end he still is the same idiot chearing himselm: "I am the boss..." He even manages to blame his brother for his own bad deeds and instead of apologizing to him sincerely, he (the violent thug) preasure him into a hug as if nothing really happened. And the quote at the end is beyond obnoxious.
I believe the ending scene with LaMotta reciting his lines while looking in the mirror is actually him talking to the bad side of his character and blaming his anger for his downfall.
Yeah yeah go watch marvel movies
that's the whole point, that's why it's great because he will never change its not a normal movie with a redemption arc it portrays real life
Exactly. Some people can't, won't and don't want to change. IMO unless it's done well films where people start off horrible but change and become good at the end are cliche whereas films about awful people who stay that way are a lot more realistic. Some people change but others don't. Despite what some people believe not everyone does.
Agreed. It’s the male version of “Gone with the Wind” .