"We are thrilled to have the opportunity to honor the artistry of Robert De Niro, a hometown icon," said Ann Tenenbaum, the Film Society of Lincoln Center's Board Chairman. "His portrayal of New York characters has helped define this city for the entire world."
"De Niro has long been such a legendary presence that one can overlook the remarkably fine-tuned craft and quality he has brought to his roles over his multi-decade career," said Lesli Klainberg, the Executive Director of the Film Society of Lincoln Center. "If you watch his performances, from Mean Streets and The Godfather Part II to Raging Bull andAwakenings and on to his more recent work in such films asSilver Linings Playbook, you see a dramatic range and unwavering commitment to his work."