Los Angeles, June 14: Robert De Niro paid a rare visit to Hollywood on Thursday (June 12, 2003) to accept the 31st AFI (American Film Institute) Life Achievement Award. A raft of actors, producers and directors made their way to the Kodak Theater in Hollywood to pay tribute to De Niro`s extraordinary talent. Robert De Niro has made more than sixty movies and is widely considered one of the greatest actors in the world. His credibility in the industry echelons never falters, whether he`s directing, producing or acting, Robert De Niro gives his all. In 1974 he received his first Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for "The Godfather, Part II", then in 1980 he won Best Actor for "Raging Bull." He was also nominated four times, for "Taxi Driver", "The Deer Hunter", "Awakenings" and "Cape Fear". Robert De Niro`s skill as an actor is applauded by old and young alike, and many of the young bloods of Hollywood seek his advice as they learn the ropes in the industry. Its a rare treat to see De Niro at public events, whether he`s receiving an award or not he prefers to remain in the shadows of stardom. The 59 year old is a man of many talents, and is immensely proud of his production company, Tribeca Productions which he founded with Jane Rosenthal in 1988.
Some say the AFI award is long overdue for the man who invented "method acting", others who look up to him and marvel at his work say the timing is perfect because "he`s at his best right now".




Juliet Lewis had the chance to get up close and personal with Robert De Niro in "Cape Fear" and has fond memories of her experience. She describes De Niro as "easy to talk to and professional" and says he may have played a psycho in the movie but "he never acted like a psycho off-set." The AFI Life Achievement Award was established by the American Film Institute in 1973 and Robert De Niro is the 31st person to receive one of the film community`s most prestigious awards.


Bureau Report