In 1940s and 50s New York, we follow the tumultuous life of Jake LaMotta, a talented yet troubled boxer who fights both in and out of the ring. LaMotta, portrayed by a peak Robert De Niro, is a true whirlwind: his uncontrollable rage and obsession with victory lead him to become a middleweight champion. However, his success in the sport is overshadowed by his destructive personality, which affects his personal relationships, especially with his wife Vickie and his brother Joey.
As Jake rises in the boxing world, his inner demons pursue him. Insecurity and jealousy consume him, turning his life into a cycle of violence that leads him to lose friends and alliances. The fights in the ring are merely an extension of his internal struggles, sprinkled with raw moments that reveal his vulnerability. He not only faces his opponents but also his own self-destructive nature.
The film not only portrays the story of a boxer but also offers an intense exploration of the limits of masculinity and the fight against one’s own ghosts. As Jake’s career crumbles, he confronts the harsh reality of his life, seizing the opportunity to reflect on love, loss, and redemption. It is a masterpiece that captures the essence of what it means to be human, with all its contradictions.