20 Famous Movie Tattoos (And What They Actually Mean)
4. Cape Fear (1991)
Role: Robert De Niro as Max Cady
In Martin Scorsese's remake of the 1962 classic, Robert De Niros Max Cady is a convicted rapist who during his time in prison has embellished his flesh with all manner of tattoos befitting of such a despicable criminal.
It is typical of his twisted nature that Cady doesn't even seem pleased with his array of ink; in the latter stages of the film he says There isnt much to do in prison except desecrate your flesh, a statement loaded with resentment at his imprisonment.
The most striking of Cady's prison tattoos is a gigantic cross on his back, baring a bible and a dagger to represent truth and justice. Emblazoning these symbols on his back clearly represents Cady's all-consuming desire for vengeance the knife definitely seems a better representation of Cady's violent character, though the Christian cross would normally be taken as a symbol of forgiveness, Cady's personality leads audiences to believe that he is rather more interested by the crucifixion part. Another memorable tattoo is the broken heart on his chest with the name Loretta (presumably an ex-fling) scrawled above it.
This is typical of Cady's use of tattoos to remind him of the many low points in his life; just in case he forgets hes an evil psycho and easily the most intimidating character De Niro would ever play.