though well-written, i totally disagree with some parts of this

article

"Don't forget that De Niro's bright early comet occurred in the context of the most creatively fertile period in American movie history."

Meaning Raging Bull, Taxi Driver and The Godfather

"In the '80s, after "Star Wars" had changed the industry, determining not only which movies got made but also the ways in which they were sold and exhibited, the sullen anti-heroes that De Niro played were no longer acceptable. Ambiguity and moral complexity disappeared. Moviegoers wanted their values straight up and uncomplicated, and they wanted their heroes simplistic and virtuous."

I really have no problem with this. I actually admire the Post-Star Wars stage. 1970's America was cold, dark and depressing. Why would we want to remember that? If you really want to watch that, watch an indie film. It doesn't have to be mainstream. Violent movies, breed violence. And the more psychologically violent it is, the more dangerous it is. I am not advocating whole scale censorship in America, but violence doesn't have to be mainstream.