Not too long ago, the trailer for the Netflix film “The Irishmen” was released. It marks the return of legendary director Martin Scorsese after 3 years. This will also mark the comeback of his collaboration with actors Robert Deniro and Joe Pesci after 24 years.
While the hype for Scorses fans may be up at the moment, it’s interesting to look back at just how influential and innovative the filmmaker really is. Although most know him for his heavy crime dramas, he’s also not afraid to out of his comfort zone.
That is why in this article we will be going over the top 10 best films he has directed.
10. The Age of Innocence (1993)
Starting off on the list is one of Martin’s more elegant looking films. As the story takes place closer to the gilded age of America. The film explores several themes that were presented in the original novel such as desire and heartbreak, while also having a sense of satirizing the rougher nature of the period at question.
9. Casino (1995)
This was the last film that the previous duo mentioned were apart of until now, which is a shame given how entertaining it was. This feature takes a breakneck pace and quite a harsh look into the lifestyle of casinos. Although perhaps a bit more exaggerated than real life, its the execution and believability that Martin can convey so well.
8. The Wolf Of Wall Street (2013)
Many would consider this last film Martin had made that was closer to his most recognizable style (and by that, I mean having a whole lot of swearing). Yet Scorsese still knows how to keep even that fresh. We how this style turns a story about the infamous Jorden Belford into one of the most entertaining experiences on could have.
7. The King Of Comedy (1983)
Out of all the movies on this list, The King Of Comedy is likely the movie little to no people have ever heard of. But any doubt of quality one might have can be put away. This film centers on the reality that one faces as not only a star in a comedy. Aiming closer to that of a sympathetic feel that isn’t often seen in these types of stories. Not to mention has one of the best performances by Jerry Lewis.
6. Hugo (2011)
Here marks another prime example of Martins ability to switch directions. With a family film that’s theme centers more on a whimsical tone. But don’t let that fool you. Hugo has quite a rich world that it builds, taking in all of our perceptions of reality and turning them into a site closer to our childlike fantasy. Throw in an engaging story that captures the essence of a child’s perspective and what’s left is an excellent fantasy.
5. The Aviator (2004)
As we have seen before, when Scorsese sets out to make a film about anyone, there might be something new you learn. In this film, we view the career of famous filmmaker and aviator Howard Hughes. We not only dive into the struggles he faced as an innovator but also his many OCD struggles that are brilliantly portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio (marking one his best performances). Throw in some top-notch cinematography and editing, and you have a masterpiece.
4. The Departed (2006)
This movie is everything about crime dramas that we love about Martin Scorsese. This film has incredible characters that can range from sympathetic to cold-hearted. From trusting to untrusting. The list goes on as you view their stories and the choices they make. Added in a grand sense of tension and suspense, and it’s no wonder why this became the film that won Martin his first Oscar.
3. Taxi Driver (1976)
Like many legendary people (not just directors) there’s always that one spectacle that showed the world how they are a force to be reconded with. For Martin, Taxi Driver is his spectacle. This movie was one of the first to really give audiences the sense of his signature cutthroat yet down to earth nature. This can be seen in the city alone when you start to view it the same way as the main character, Travis Bickle. Which really adds a lot to the overall feel.
2. Goodfellas (1990)
Without a doubt, Goodfellas is Sorceses most iconic picture. It’s the film most people tend to think of first whenever his work comes into the discussion. You can see why once you start to experience the same level of dedication in the story and world-building the film takes you through. Telling a story about what it really means to live at the top and the consequences that fall through. This is also helped by the incredible dialogue, some of which was even improvised.
1. Raging Bull (1980)
Although many would argue that Goodfellas might be his most iconic work, when it comes to his absolute best, it’s Raging Bull. This film takes the viewer through an emotional sand storm as he sees the constant struggles that boxer Jake Lamota has been through. Showing the inner turmoil that arises from the push to be the best one can be, even if that means pushing all of your closest people away. All of which is captured by the most mesmerizing performance that Robert Deniro has ever done on any Scorsese film or any movie.