One of the best actors Hollywood has seen, the career of Robert De Niro as of late has left much to be desired. Working at a rapid pace, he’s had far more duds than successes, but a few recent projects have us more intrigued than usual. Coming off of his Oscar-nominated performance in Silver Linings Playbook, we got news last week that the actor will be reteaming with David O. Russell for his currently shooting Abscam drama and now new details have come in regarding his role.
Speaking to Empire, De Niro is playing a “fixer of sorts” tied to the casino where the ’70s FBI sting operation takes place, led by agent Jimmy Boyle (Bradley Cooper). “My character is a guy who comes in and represents the whole gambling thing, trying to help them work it out. Unwittingly, he’s also being used. He’s legitimate, in that he can do casinos, but he’s also connected to the underworld,” De Niro says.
He also goes on to talk about the overall story, which stars a con man (Christian Bale) and his partner (Amy Adams), as well as Jennifer Lawrence, Louis C.K. and Jeremy Renner. “It’s the story of how the government prosecutor went after federal politicians”, De Niro says. “They were taking bribes to allow the legalisation of gambling in New Jersey.” De Niro is also keeping busy with other projects, and another potential one has him stepping back into the boxing ring.
The Raging Bull star will be seen early next year alongside Rocky‘s Sylvester Stallone in Grudge Match, but now Deadline reports on another project in the same vein. Teaming with Carlos star Edgar Ramirez, the duo have reportedly confirmed roles in Hands Of Stone, coming from writer-director Jonathan Jakubowicz.
This time around, Ramirez will be the star, playing the famous Panamanian professional boxer Roberto Duran, while De Niro takes on the role of Ray Arcel. Fighting Sugar Ray Leonard, Thomas Hearns, Marvin Hagler and more, the boxer won 103 out of 119 fights, cementing him as one of the best in his field.
Production kicks off this September in Panama, so expect a late 2014 release.
Are you looking forward to these upcoming De Niro films?