Direct action cutting De Niro - the one with method? (6)

I believe the answer is:

tactic

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'direct action' is the definition.
'tactic' can be an answer for 'action' (thesaurus). I am unsure of the 'direct' bit.

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tactic that I've seen before include "A manoeuvre or planned action" , "An action planned to achieve a specific end" , "Manoeuvre, stratagem" , "Planned action/strategy" , "Planned manoeuvre or skilful move" .)

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times.

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