Al Pacino and Robert De Niro Talk About Their Friendship

Al Pacino and Robert De Niro first met in New York in 1968–the year I was born. They had both arrived too early for an acting class. In a dark vacant room filled only with chairs and tables, they connected and became friends. Within four years they would be making movie history starring in The Godfather Part II, but they would not share the screen together until the mid-90’s in the movie Heat.
The sound stage at Silvercup Studios in New York was vast and imposing, with well over 150 people there that day. For our set we re-created the acting classroom inspired by Al and Bob’s first meeting in 1968. In my film, they would reunite as elder statesmen reflecting on their long friendship, on their core values and principles.
I’ll never forget the charged atmosphere on that sound stage as the two shadowy figures slowly walked towards each other and met with a mediterranean embrace. They both took a seat and faced each other across a table—it was impossible not to think of Heat. My main goal was to capture real connection and intimacy. I must admit it took all the concentration I could muster to dial out the giant production and tune into Al and Bob’s frequency.
Both men have very different characters, yet both trusted me. Bob is reserved, quiet, thoughtful, with piercing concentration and professionalism. Al is much more expressive with his emotions, openly showing his vulnerability and joy. Actually, Al at one point even took me aside and gave me lessons in directing. How lucky I am.
As cameras started rolling I asked them about the importance of friendship. Al responded, “It’s the greatest thing you can have.” He looked at Bob, “Here is a friend–I trust him.” Bob looked down, face quietly proud. “I feel that way about Al–it’s that simple. I have a trust and I couldn't have it with other people–only with him.” I prodded Bob's arm and said, “Respect!” He responded, “Important, essential.” I then turned to Al and whispered the word kindness. He said, “Kindness brings out respect, there’s kindness and then there’s really caring.”
This was one of the most inspiring moments of my career thanks to my friends at Moncler. Sitting at a table sharing a tender human moment with my two heroes. Here’s to rekindling the spirit of optimism. Al and Bob I salute you.

-----

Connect with Platon:

X: @Platon
TikTok: @PlatonPhoto
Instagram: @Platon
Facebook: https://www.Facebook.com/profile.php?...
Website: PlatonPhoto.com
Grab a copy of Platon’s latest book, “The Defenders”, here: https://www.PlatonPhoto.com/kiosk
Help us amplify human rights defenders by donating to The People’s Portfolio: https://www.thepeoplesportfolio.org/

---

Subscribe to Platon for new monthly films and exclusives, live Q&As.
Got a question for Platon? Leave it in the comments for our next Q&A.