
Cape Fear, released in 1991 and directed by Martin Scorsese, is a psychological thriller featuring Robert De Niro as the menacing Max Cady and Nick Nolte as the beleaguered Sam Bowden. Upon its release, the film garnered mixed to positive reviews: critics praised De Niro's intense performance and Scorsese's stylish direction but had reservations about the film's extreme violence and some of its narrative choices. Over time, Cape Fear's reputation has improved considerably, with many appreciating its tense, suspenseful atmosphere and complex characters. The film is now often regarded as a cult classic in the thriller genre, admired for both its chilling depiction of revenge and its exploration of moral ambiguity, far surpassing initial mixed impressions.