16 Movies Similar to Raging Bull That Will Knock You Out!

Get ready to be knocked out by these 16 incredible movies that are just as intense and gripping as "Raging Bull"! From heart-wrenching biographies to powerful dramas, these films will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions. Step into the ring and witness the raw passion and turmoil of characters who, like Jake LaMotta, fight not only for victory but also for their own redemption. Brace yourself for a cinematic journey that will leave you breathless.

1) Goodfellas

Goodfellas is reminiscent of Raging Bull because both films showcase Martin Scorsese's exceptional talent as a director. While Raging Bull focuses on the life of boxer Jake LaMotta and his destructive behavior both in and out of the ring, Goodfellas tells the story of Henry Hill and his life in the mafia. Both films are driven by powerful performances, with Robert De Niro delivering captivating performances in both. However, Goodfellas stands out as Scorsese's best film, crackling with raw energy and enthusiasm. The script is excellent, filled with memorable quotes, and the pop and rock soundtrack adds to the film's winning charm. The cinematography and attention to detail are immaculate, immersing the audience in the world of organized crime. The ensemble cast is one of the finest in film history, with Joe Pesci's Oscar-winning performance perfectly matched by De Niro and Ray Liotta.

Release date: December, 1990
IMDB Rating: 8.7
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2) Amadeus

Amadeus, released in 1986, is a movie that shares some similarities with Raging Bull. Both films are biographical dramas that delve into the lives of their respective protagonists. While Raging Bull focuses on the life of boxer Jake LaMotta, Amadeus highlights the life, success, and troubles of composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. However, the similarities end there. Raging Bull explores themes of jealousy, dysfunctional family, and domestic violence, while Amadeus delves into themes such as opera, classical composition, and jealousy. The main focus of Amadeus is the deep jealousy felt by Antonio Salieri towards Mozart's extraordinary talent, leading Salieri to claim that he murdered Mozart. Amadeus takes a different approach by showcasing Mozart's genius through his music rather than his personal life. The film includes snippets of some of Mozart's most exquisite musical compositions, such as the great C Minor Mass, the Requiem, and "Don Giovanni.

Release date: October, 1986
IMDB Rating: 8.4
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3) Dance with a Stranger

Dance with a Stranger takes us back to the 1950s, where the strictures of social class and gender roles intertwine with a stormy relationship that ultimately ends in death. This movie, based on the true story of Ruth Ellis, the last woman hanged in Britain, showcases Miranda Richardson's unforgettable performance, reminiscent of a young Bette Davis in 'Of Human Bondage'. Richardson's intensity as Ruth is unmatched, drawing us into the tragic and doomed life of her character. Although different in setting and plot, Dance with a Stranger shares a common thread with Raging Bull - the exploration of complex characters consumed by their own flaws and the consequences of their actions. While Raging Bull delves into the world of boxing, Dance with a Stranger explores the dark side of a romantic relationship. With its gripping storyline and outstanding performances, Dance with a Stranger is a must-watch for those who appreciate powerful character studies and captivating stories from the past.

Release date: March, 1985
IMDB Rating: 6.6

4) Serpico

Serpico is reminiscent of Raging Bull in many ways. Both movies explore the dark underbelly of their respective cities, New York, and delve into the lives of complex and flawed characters. While Raging Bull focuses on the world of boxing and the destructive nature of jealousy and violence, Serpico shines a spotlight on police corruption and the sacrifices made by an honest cop. Al Pacino delivers a powerful performance in Serpico, just like Robert De Niro does in Raging Bull. Both actors bring a raw intensity to their roles that captivates the audience. The movies also share a similar gritty and realistic aesthetic, immersing viewers in the harsh realities of their characters' lives. However, the two films differ in their genres. Raging Bull is primarily a sports drama, while Serpico falls into the genres of biography, crime, drama, and thriller.

Release date: March, 1977
IMDB Rating: 7.7

5) Lepke

Lepke is reminiscent of Raging Bull because both movies delve into the gritty underworld of New York City and explore the lives of complex and flawed characters. While Raging Bull focuses on the violent and self-destructive nature of boxer Jake LaMotta, Lepke tells the story of Louis "Lepke" Buchalter, the head of Murder Inc. Both films showcase the dark side of ambition and power, as well as the destructive consequences it can have on personal relationships. However, there are notable differences between the two films. Raging Bull is a biographical drama about a boxer, while Lepke is a true crime drama that delves into the world of organized crime in the 1930s. Additionally, Raging Bull is known for its stunning performances, particularly Robert De Niro's portrayal of Jake LaMotta, while Lepke is more of a passable mobster movie that attempts to emulate the success of The Godfather.

Release date: May, 1975
IMDB Rating: 5.5

6) Testimony

Testimony is reminiscent of Raging Bull in its portrayal of a complex and troubled individual. While Raging Bull focuses on the life of boxer Jake LaMotta, Testimony tells the story of the great Soviet composer Dmitri Shostakovich. Both films explore the destructive nature of their protagonists' passions and the impact they have on their personal lives. Raging Bull showcases LaMotta's violent tendencies both inside and outside the ring, while Testimony highlights Shostakovich's struggles and artistic conflicts during the rule of Stalin. However, there are notable differences between the two movies. Raging Bull is set in New York City and delves into themes of jealousy, dysfunctional family, and domestic violence, while Testimony takes place in Soviet Russia and focuses on the relationship between Shostakovich and Stalin. Additionally, Raging Bull received numerous nominations and awards, while Testimony had a more limited critical reception.

Release date: September, 1988
IMDB Rating: 7

7) Communion

Communion: Oct.4 and Dec.26 the Strieber family drives from NYC to their cabin in the woods. Both nights there are some powerful lights outside and maybe aliens. The dad is mentally affected by the "bad dream", goes to the shrink and is hypnotized.
"Communion" is reminiscent of "Raging Bull" in its exploration of a character's psychological journey. While "Raging Bull" focuses on the violence and temper of boxer Jake LaMotta, "Communion" delves into the mind of writer Whitley Strieber, played brilliantly by Christopher Walken. Strieber's descent into bizarre behavior and encounters with aliens mirror LaMotta's destructive behavior outside the ring. Both films examine the internal struggles of their protagonists, with Walken delivering a performance as memorable as his roles in "The Deerhunter" and "The King Of New York.

Release date: November, 1989
IMDB Rating: 5.5

8) Pretty Ladies

Pretty Ladies, released in 1925, is reminiscent of Raging Bull, the 1980 boxing film. Both films explore the theme of jealousy, but in very different contexts. While Raging Bull delves into the jealousy and violence within the boxing ring and its impact on the protagonist's personal life, Pretty Ladies takes a comedic approach to jealousy within the world of entertainment. The plot revolves around Maggie, a comedienne, who falls in love and gets married to musician Al Cassidy. However, when Al is hired to write a song for Selma Larson, one of the Follies' most beautiful stars, he finds himself falling for her, leading to complications. Despite their different genres and time periods, both movies capture the destructive nature of jealousy and the consequences it can have on relationships. While Raging Bull is a critically acclaimed biographical drama, Pretty Ladies offers a lighthearted and entertaining take on jealousy, making it a delightful watch for fans of classic comedies.

Release date: September, 1925
IMDB Rating: 5.1

9) Another Language

Another Language is reminiscent of Raging Bull in its exploration of dysfunctional family dynamics and marital problems. In both movies, the central characters face challenges in their relationships that are exacerbated by their respective families. While Raging Bull focuses on the destructive behaviors of boxer Jake LaMotta, Another Language delves into the struggles faced by Stella and Victor as they navigate the complexities of their own union. Both films highlight the tension between personal desires and familial expectations, showing how these conflicts can strain marriages. However, while Raging Bull is a gritty biographical drama set in the world of boxing, Another Language takes a more subdued approach, offering a nuanced portrayal of family relationships. Helen Hayes delivers a natural and restrained performance as Stella, while Robert Montgomery effectively portrays Victor's weakness and eventual growth. Overall, Another Language provides a captivating exploration of marriage and family dynamics, making it a compelling choice for viewers who enjoyed the raw intensity of Raging Bull.

Release date: July, 1933
IMDB Rating: 6.4

10) Taxi Driver

Release date: March, 1978
IMDB Rating: 8.2
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11) Casino

Casino is reminiscent of Raging Bull in its exploration of the destructive nature of male rage. While Raging Bull focuses on the life of a boxer whose violent temperament destroys everything outside the ring, Casino takes us into the world of Las Vegas, where two best friends, a mafia enforcer and a casino executive, compete for an empire while being entangled with a fast-living socialite. Both films delve deep into the darker aspects of their characters' lives and the consequences of their actions. However, while Raging Bull is a character study that delves into the psyche of its protagonist, Casino takes a broader approach, exploring the relationships and political problems of its ensemble cast. Additionally, Casino's use of alternated narration and its stylized, documentary-like footage sets it apart from Raging Bull's more conventional storytelling. Overall, if you enjoyed Raging Bull, Casino offers a gripping exploration of power, ambition, and the high stakes of life in the gambling capital of the world.

Release date: March, 1996
IMDB Rating: 8.2
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12) Somebody Up There Likes Me

"Somebody Up There Likes Me" takes us back to the boxing ring, just like "Raging Bull," but with a twist. While "Raging Bull" explores the destructive nature of violence and jealousy in the life of boxer Jake LaMotta, "Somebody Up There Likes Me" tells the inspiring story of Rocky Graziano's rise to the top. Both movies delve into the personal struggles of their protagonists, showcasing the impact of their careers on their relationships and mental states. However, "Somebody Up There Likes Me" focuses more on Graziano's troubled past, including his problems with his father, time spent in jail, and misdoing in the army. It follows his journey from a juvenile delinquent to becoming the World Middleweight Champion at the age of 28.

Release date: July, 1956
IMDB Rating: 7.5

13) Searching for Bobby Fischer

Searching for Bobby Fischer is a delightful film that will capture your heart, just like Raging Bull did. Both movies fall under the genres of Biography, Drama, and Sport, but their similarities go beyond that. While Raging Bull explores the life of a boxer consumed by rage and jealousy, Searching for Bobby Fischer tells the story of a young chess prodigy who is encouraged to toughen up to become a champion, much like the famous but unlikable Bobby Fischer. Both films delve into the dark side of their respective worlds, showcasing the sacrifices and hardships that come with pursuing greatness. However, where Raging Bull is raw and gritty, Searching for Bobby Fischer takes a more tender approach. It beautifully captures the innocence and wonder of childhood, with Max Pomeranc delivering a remarkable performance as the young prodigy.

Release date: August, 1993
IMDB Rating: 7.4

14) Savage Nights

Savage Nights: Jean, a 30-year-old film producer, leads a tumultuous love affair with Laura, who is 17. This French drama, much like Raging Bull, delves deep into the complexities of its central character's life. Jean's revelation that he is HIV positive drives the film forward, causing tensions to rise between him and Laura. The movie captures the frustrations and erratic behavior that come with the couple's predicament, creating a constant feeling of desperation. Cyril Collard, who tragically died of AIDS shortly after completing the film, brings a charm and infectious smile to his portrayal of Jean. Savage Nights is a powerful drama that authentically portrays the struggles of its characters and compels viewers to witness their inevitable fate. While not the type of film to lift your spirits after a long day, it offers a frightening authenticity that demands your attention until the very end.

Release date: April, 1995
IMDB Rating: 6.9

15) Nora

Nora. Dublin, 1904, James Joyce chats up Nora Barnacle, a hotel maid recently come from Galway. She enchants him with her frank, uninhibited manner, and before long, he's convinced her to come with him to Trieste. While "Raging Bull" is a gripping portrayal of a boxer's self-destructive rage, "Nora" tells a different kind of story, delving into the complex and unique relationship between James Joyce and Nora Barnacle. Both movies explore themes of jealousy and love, but while "Raging Bull" focuses on the violence and dysfunction that destroys the protagonist's life, "Nora" offers a glimpse into the personal life of a creative mind. With its intimate portrayal of Joyce's infatuation and the challenges they face together, "Nora" is a movie that will captivate anyone with a passion for Joyce's work and an interest in the complexities of human relationships.

Release date: April, 2000
IMDB Rating: 5.9

16) The Edge of Love

The Edge of Love takes us back to familiar territory, reminiscent of Raging Bull. While Raging Bull explores the destructive power of male rage within the boxing world, The Edge of Love delves into the complexities of love, jealousy, and infidelity during the backdrop of World War II. Both movies are character-driven, showcasing individuals whose passions spill over into their personal lives. While Robert De Niro's Jake LaMotta expresses his violence in the ring and at home, Dylan Thomas, played by Matthew Rhys, philanders his way between his wife and ex-lover in the smoky streets of Blitz London. The Edge of Love presents a love triangle, where two women are connected through their shared affection for the charismatic poet. With its captivating performances and poetic storytelling, The Edge of Love offers a glimpse into the tumultuous nature of love, just as Raging Bull does with the world of boxing.

Release date: June, 2008
IMDB Rating: 6.1

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