In an era where entertainment comes and goes just to be forgotten in a week and the directors behind the films we watch aren’t often considered by the average moviegoer, Martin Scorsese is a name that stands out. Scorsese is in a small group of modern directors whose name alone is enough to draw in audiences, regardless of the film’s subject. With the October 20th release of his newest film, Killers of the Flower Moon, we’re ready to take a look back at the old catalog and view some of our favorites with fresh eyes.
The Wolf of Wall Street
One of the most recent films in the deep filmography of Scorsese’s prolific career, The Wolf of Wall Street is one of his absolute best films (which is saying something, because all of his films could be most other directors’ best film). To anyone who hasn’t seen it, the title tells you everything you need to know as a viewer. It features Leonardo DiCaprio at the top of his game, and in case you forgot, this was the world’s first major introduction to Margot Robbie. Yep, there was a time before she was Hollywood royalty, and it was only 10 years ago.
The Wolf of Wall Street is streaming now on Netflix.
Goodfellas
Goodfellas, the story of a young boy and his life once he gets involved with the mafia, is quite possibly Scorsese’s very best film. It’s also his highest rated on IMDb, with an 8.7 average. This is the kind of film you feel nostalgic for and the need to rewatch every few years. If you haven’t seen it, you need to. If you have, it’s about time for a rewatch.
Goodfellas is available to rent everywhere.
The Departed
If you were to debate that there’s an alternate contender for the best Scorsese film, The Departed is probably the next best choice. This is the kind of movie where there are no good guys. Even the good guys are bad. And just when you think you know where it’s going, you realize you’re wrong and it goes in another direction. In other words, after this movie, your life will be split into two eras – before you watched The Departed, and after you watched The Departed.
The Departed is available to rent everywhere.
Taxi Driver
It’s 1976, and just a couple of years ago, this kid Robert De Niro broke onto the scene as one to watch in one of the greatest films anyone has ever seen The Godfather Part II. Of course, the world is wondering, where will they see him next? Boom, enter Taxi Driver, a movie that, on the surface, is about exactly what the title suggests – a taxi driver (who is very angry) and not much else. But beneath the surface, there’s a stunning character portrait rising into view.
This is one of our favorite films, well, ever. So here’s a viewing recommendation for the ultimate experience: Watch this on a night when you’re alone. Get your favorite snacks, turn off all the lights, put away your phone, grab a blanket, and let yourself be transported into the grime and bright lights of ’70s New York City in this Martin Scorsese classic.
Taxi Driver is available to rent everywhere.