So much of this video quality representation is director intended that it’s hard to count against certain moments in the film that as a reviewer you may doubt. When it needed a more clear picture it did so with precise clarity. When the picture needed to look ruff and gritty it did so with ease. (Aside from a small thin stripe like line that appears sometimes in darker scenes, though nothing to squeal about.) All the techniques and cinematography that Martin Scorsese crafted on this picture shine through incredibly. The video quality on Raging Bull is probably one of the best displays of blu-ray picture quality staying true to its form. Pick up the “Bull” on blu-ray, you won’t regret it. “You never hurt me Ray, you never hurt me.” and “I never went down Ray, I never went down Ray!” Haha, classic. When you’re done watching this movie, two quotes will remain in your mind. This is the closest you will ever get to stepping inside the ring. Every scene is expertly framed in the ring with realism and sharp contrast. The fight scenes are cinematography at its best. Unlike many movies where Pesci is more bark then bite (besides say Casino) it was awesome to see Joey put the whooping on the three wanna-be wise guys in the club that night. Cathy Moriarty gives an great performance as Jake’s Wife, and Joe Pesci gives a strong performance in his supporting role as Jake’s brother Joey. Robert De Niro’s portrayal of Jake La Motta is nothing short of legendary, his dedication to this role is something scary.

There is no sugar coatings or exaggerated endings in this one for the sake of you going home happy. La Motta was brutal, and this movie is great because of its pure honesty. (No matter if you respect that style or not) These are reasons that make the life of Jake La Motta so entertaining. To go from the top, to the bottom and to do it with style. Over the years the beatings play a huge role in his sanity or lack there of. Jake La Motta is a fighter who relies on his physical gifts over his mind.

Though none of them can hold the jock strap that is the “Raging Bull” Jake La Motta’s foray to blu-ray. Sure “Ali” is a great 2nd and maybe just maybe The Hurricane grabs third. The Bull is here, here to slap yo’ girl if she ain’t acktin’ right! Here to question your own sanity, and make sure you’re not boinking his wife! One of the greatest portrayals of any boxer to the big screen, hell it’s the best hands down.

Raging bull 35th anniversary blu ray