Billy Crystal recently shared a memorable moment from his past involving Robert De Niro during a screening of their 1999 comedy hit, “Analyze This.” The event, held at Spring Studios’ Indeed Theater in New York, was moderated by Gayle King and featured a lively Q&A session between the two stars.
Crystal, now 76, recounted how De Niro approached him during the early takes of the film, seeking feedback on his performance. “He whispers because it’s like, mafia guys they speak in whispers because it makes you come to them,” Crystal recalled. De Niro had said, “Listen. If you see anything I can do funnier, better, take me aside and just let me know.” Crystal was taken aback by De Niro’s humility and generosity, thinking, “Oh my God. What an amazing, generous thing to do.”
The opportunity for critique came during a scene where De Niro’s character, a mob boss, introduces himself to Crystal’s therapist character. Crystal humorously told De Niro, “Come here. Is that all you got?” The two shared a laugh, setting the tone for a film filled with unexpected humor and camaraderie.
Even 25 years later, the success of “Analyze This” remains a cherished memory for both actors. During the Tribeca Festival / De Niro Con screening, they reminisced about the film’s opening night at De Niro’s former restaurant, Ago. Crystal humorously recalled asking De Niro about the restaurant’s name, to which De Niro jokingly replied, “‘Ago f–k yourself.’”
“Analyze This” faced stiff competition from the thriller “Cruel Intentions,” but it emerged victorious at the box office. Crystal remembered the excitement of the opening night, saying, “The box office was coming in, and it was like, ‘Oh my God. Oh my God. We’re crushing them!’” The film’s $18 million opening was a record for both stars, eventually grossing $177 million globally.
De Niro admitted he wasn’t overly concerned about the film’s commercial success but was pleased with the positive reception. “The fact that it does well means people see it. So, it equals that. … I wasn’t worried about it. I was just having a nice opening night party and then I started hearing that it was doing quite well. So of course we were happy about that. It went to another level that we had not expected.”
The film, directed by Harold Ramis, was produced by De Niro’s longtime producing partner and Tribeca Festival co-founder, Jane Rosenthal, along with Paula Weinstein. Weinstein, a Tribeca executive for many years, passed away earlier this year.
The conversation at Tribeca also delved into the film’s development. Initially written by Kenneth Lonergan, the screenplay was later refined by Peter Tolan with input from Crystal. De Niro was their first and only choice for the role of mob boss Paul Vitti. Crystal was thrilled but also intimidated by De Niro’s method acting approach.
Moderator Gayle King pointed out the similarities between “Analyze This” and “The Sopranos,” which premiered later in 1999. Crystal noted that Billy Wilder had conceived the idea of a gangster seeing a therapist back in 1939, though he never made a film based on it. Interestingly, “The Sopranos” referenced “Analyze This” in one episode, emphasizing, “But that’s a comedy!”
Reflecting on the 25th anniversary of “Analyze This,” Crystal shared a humorous anecdote about being invited to meet the Pope. He declined, saying, “I can’t because I’m going to be with my Pope,” referring to De Niro.
Crystal’s career, spanning over five decades, is a testament to his versatility and talent. From his early days as a substitute teacher and struggling comedian to becoming a beloved actor, director, and writer, Crystal has always been driven by his passion for entertainment. His wife, Janice, played a crucial role in his journey, encouraging him to pursue his dreams.
Crystal’s ability to connect with audiences through humor and storytelling has made him a cherished figure in Hollywood. His collaborations with De Niro, particularly in “Analyze This,” highlight the magic that can happen when two talented actors come together.
As Crystal and De Niro continue to reflect on their careers and the impact of “Analyze This,” it’s clear that their friendship and mutual respect have only grown stronger over the years. The film remains a beloved classic, a testament to their comedic genius and the enduring power of laughter.
