David O. Russell Does Robert De Niro Impression During Santa Barbara Tribute (Video)

Watch the “American Hustle” director employ a classic interview trick he learned from the Oscar-winning actor

“American Hustle” director David O. Russell offered up his impression of Robert De Niro at the Santa Barbara Film Festival.

De Niro has an uncredited role as a gangster in “American Hustle,” and Russell riffed on how the Oscar-winning actor often ends his answers during interviews.

Also Read: David O. Russell Courting Jennifer Lawrence for Joy Mangano Movie at Fox 2000

The festival hosted a tribute to Outstanding Director recipient Russell, who was interviewed onstage for two hours by Roger Durling.

Sometimes I think that ego is really fear. I’m not saying anything new here. But when someone acts important, it’s really covering up the fact that they’re terrified. So if I acted important it’s because really I was terrified,” Russell said before trailing off, which he explains is a classic De Niro trick.

Also Read: David O. Russell to Receive Outstanding Director Award From Santa Barbara Fest

Watch the video, which comes courtesy of Hollywood Elsewhere’s Jeff Wells, below:

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