One of history’s most renowned and significant film filmmakers is Martin Scorsese. These movies demonstrate Scorsese’s diversity as a director, from grim criminal dramas to grand historical epics to fun for the whole family. Each is expertly directed, and some of their greatest performers provide standout performances. Here are 10 of his finest works as a director, which include some timeless movies:
Taxi Driver (1976): “Taxi Driver” is a psychological thriller directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro. The film follows Travis Bickle, a lonely and disturbed Vietnam War veteran who works as a taxi driver in New York City. Travis becomes increasingly disillusioned with the corruption and decay around him and sees himself as a vigilante who can clean up the city.
The film is a disturbing and intense exploration of alienation, violence, and the dark underbelly of urban life and is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made.
The Irishman (2019): “The Irishman” is a crime drama directed by Martin Scorsese and stars Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci. The film tells the story of Frank Sheeran, a truck driver who becomes involved with the Bufalino crime family and becomes a hitman. Overall, “The Irishman” is a well-crafted and engaging film that explores loyalty, ageing, and regret themes. The performances by De Niro, Pacino, and Pesci are outstanding, and the film’s cinematography and score are both top-notch.
At three and a half hours, the film can feel slow-paced, but the character development and the exploration of the complex relationships between the characters make it worth the investment of time. “The Irishman” is a must-see for fans of Scorsese’s work and for anyone interested in the genre of crime dramas.
Mean Streets (1973): “Mean Streets” is an extraordinary crime drama showcasing Martin Scorsese’s craft mastery. The film is a raw and unflinching look at the world of organized crime in New York City’s Little Italy neighbourhood. Harvey Keitel and Robert De Niro deliver exceptional performances, bringing depth and authenticity to their characters’ struggles with loyalty, morality, and identity. Scorsese’s direction is masterful, with his signature style of capturing the energy and atmosphere of the city on full display.
The nonlinear narrative and frenetic editing add to the film’s overall intensity and realism, creating a visceral and immersive viewing experience. “Mean Streets” is a seminal work in Scorsese’s filmography and a true masterpiece of the crime genre. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in the art of filmmaking and storytelling.
Raging Bull (1980): “Raging Bull” is a cinematic masterpiece and one of Martin Scorsese’s greatest achievements. The film stars Robert De Niro in a career-defining performance as boxer Jake LaMotta, showcasing his physical transformation and emotional depth. Scorsese’s direction is exceptional, with his black-and-white cinematography and innovative camera work creating a stunning visual style. The film explores jealousy, insecurity, and self-destructive behaviour, with LaMotta’s turbulent relationships and personal demons driving the story forward.
The supporting cast, including Joe Pesci and Cathy Moriarty, deliver standout performances, adding layers to the film’s complex characters. “Raging Bull” is a visceral and emotionally charged film that leaves a lasting impact on the viewer. It’s a genuine American movie classic and a must-see for everyone interested in the craft of filmmaking.
The Age of Innocence (1993): “The Age of Innocence” is a beautifully crafted period drama directed by Martin Scorsese and based on the novel by Edith Wharton. The film stars Daniel Day-Lewis, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Winona Ryder, who perform excellently in their respective roles. Set in 19th-century New York City, the film explores social class, conformity, and the restrictive norms of high society. Scorsese’s direction is elegant and precise, with his lighting, costumes, and set design creating a lush and immersive world.
The film’s script, adapted by Scorsese and Jay Cocks, is rich with detail and nuance, capturing the intricacies of Wharton’s novel. The pacing is deliberate but never dull, with the characters’ relationships and emotions driving the story forward.
“The Age of Innocence” is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that showcases Scorsese’s versatility as a filmmaker. It’s a must-see for fans of period dramas and anyone interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships.
Goodfellas (1990): “Goodfellas” is a true masterpiece of the crime genre and one of Martin Scorsese’s greatest films. Starring Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, and Joe Pesci, the film follows a young mobster’s rise and fall and involvement in the criminal underworld of New York City. Scorsese’s direction is flawless, with his camera work, music, and editing creating a dynamic and immersive cinematic experience. The film’s screenplay, co-written by Scorsese and Nicholas Pileggi, is sharp and witty, with a perfect balance of humour and violence.
The performances are outstanding, with Pesci’s portrayal of the volatile and unpredictable Tommy DeVito earning him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Liotta and De Niro are equally impressive, bringing depth and nuance to their respective roles. “Goodfellas” is a thrilling and unforgettable film that explores themes of loyalty, betrayal and the allure of the criminal lifestyle. It’s a must-see for genre fans and a true classic of American cinema.
The Wolf of Wall Street (2013): “The Wolf of Wall Street” is a tour de force of filmmaking directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio in a career-defining performance. The film tells the true story of Jordan Belfort, a corrupt stockbroker who rises to immense wealth and power through illegal means.
Scorsese’s direction is bold and unapologetic, with his use of black comedy and shocking imagery creating an entertaining and thought-provoking film. DiCaprio’s performance is outstanding, bringing charisma and depth to the morally bankrupt character of Belfort.
The film’s supporting cast, including Jonah Hill and Margot Robbie, also deliver excellent performances, adding layers to the film’s colourful characters. The cinematography, editing, and score are all exceptional, creating an exhilarating and immersive cinematic experience.
“The Wolf of Wall Street” is a provocative and unforgettable film that challenges its audience to confront American capitalism’s excesses and moral failings. It’s a must-see for fans of Scorsese and DiCaprio and anyone interested in exploring the darker side of the American Dream.
Shutter Island (2010): “Shutter Island” is a gripping psychological thriller directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The film follows U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels as he investigates a disappearance on an isolated island housing a mental institution for the criminally insane.
Scorsese’s direction is masterful, creating a palpable tension and unease throughout the film. DiCaprio delivers a compelling performance like Daniels, bringing depth and nuance to the character’s personal demons and inner turmoil.
The film’s supporting cast, including Mark Ruffalo and Ben Kingsley, also deliver strong performances, adding layers to the film’s complex characters. The cinematography and score are both exceptional, with the film’s visuals and music adding to the sense of dread and suspense.
“Shutter Island” is a haunting and atmospheric film that keeps its audience guessing until the end. It’s a must-see for fans of psychological thrillers and anyone interested in exploring the darker aspects of the human psyche.
Hugo (2011): “Hugo” is a visually stunning film directed by Martin Scorsese, and based on Brian Selznick’s novel “The Invention of Hugo Cabret”. The film tells the story of a young orphan boy named Hugo, living in a train station in 1930s Paris, who embarks on a quest to unravel the mystery of his late father’s automaton.
The performances are also exceptional, with Asa Butterfield delivering a convincing and heartfelt portrayal of Hugo, and Ben Kingsley bringing depth and nuance to the character of Georges Méliès, a real-life pioneer of cinema who plays a pivotal role in the story. “Hugo” is a touching and heartfelt film that celebrates the power of imagination and the magic of cinema. It’s a must-see for fans of Scorsese and anyone interested in exploring the history of cinema and its pioneers.
The King of Comedy (1982): “The King of Comedy” is a darkly comedic film directed by Martin Scorsese, starring Robert De Niro as Rupert Pupkin, a struggling comedian who becomes obsessed with a talk show host, played by Jerry Lewis. The film explores themes of celebrity culture, obsession, and the lengths people will go to achieve their dreams.
Scorsese’s direction is both subtle and impactful, with his use of framing, pacing, and music creating a palpable sense of tension and discomfort throughout the film. De Niro’s performance as Pupkin is outstanding, with his character’s delusions and desperation conveyed convincingly and with a touch of humor.
Jerry Lewis also delivers a strong performance as the talk show host, adding layers to his character beyond the typical caricature of a celebrity figure. The film’s supporting cast, including Sandra Bernhard and Diahnne Abbott, also deliver excellent performances, adding depth and nuance to the film’s characters.
“The King of Comedy” is a thought-provoking and darkly funny film that challenges its audience to examine the toxic nature of celebrity culture and the dangers of obsession. It’s a must-see for Scorsese and De Niro fans and anyone interested in exploring the darker side of fame and fortune.
