Martin Scorsese, a name synonymous with cinematic excellence, continued to captivate audiences throughout the 2010s with his unparalleled storytelling and directorial prowess. In this article, we’ll take a journey through Scorsese’s filmography of the decade, ranking his five releases from this period. Each of these films showcases the director’s versatility and his ability to push the boundaries of cinema. Let’s dive into these modern classics and explore what makes them stand out in Scorsese’s illustrious career.
5. ‘Shutter Island’ (2010)
Kicking off the decade with a psychological thriller, Scorsese brings us “Shutter Island,” starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo, and Ben Kingsley. Set in 1954, the film follows U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels (DiCaprio) as he investigates a psychiatric facility on Shutter Island after a patient mysteriously disappears.
As Teddy delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of conspiracies, leading him to question his own sanity. The film’s twisting narrative and haunting atmosphere keep viewers on the edge of their seats until its shocking conclusion.
“Shutter Island” is a masterclass in building tension and creating an unsettling atmosphere. Scorsese’s direction, coupled with DiCaprio’s powerful performance, makes this a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers. You can stream this mind-bending journey on Paramount+ or rent it on various digital platforms.
4. ‘Hugo’ (2011)
In a surprising departure from his usual fare, Scorsese ventures into family-friendly territory with “Hugo.” This visually stunning adventure stars Asa Butterfield, Chloë Grace Moretz, and Ben Kingsley. Set in 1930s Paris, the film tells the story of Hugo Cabret, an orphan living in the walls of a train station who becomes embroiled in a mystery involving his late father and a broken automaton.
“Hugo” is Scorsese’s love letter to the magic of cinema, particularly early silent films. As you follow Hugo’s adventure, you’ll be treated to a heartwarming tale of friendship, family, and the power of imagination. The film’s breathtaking visuals earned it five Academy Awards, including Best Cinematography and Best Visual Effects.
This enchanting movie is available to stream on Paramount+ and can be rented on various digital platforms. It’s a perfect choice for a family movie night or for anyone who wants to experience Scorsese’s softer side.
3. ‘Silence’ (2016)
Scorsese’s long-awaited passion project, “Silence,” finally came to fruition in 2016. Starring Andrew Garfield, Adam Driver, and Liam Neeson, this historical drama is based on Shūsaku Endō’s 1966 novel of the same name. The film follows two 17th-century Jesuit priests who travel to Japan in search of their missing mentor, at a time when Christianity was outlawed in the country.
“Silence” is a profound exploration of faith, doubt, and cultural clash. Scorsese’s direction is contemplative and unflinching, presenting the brutality of religious persecution alongside moments of quiet reflection. The film’s stunning cinematography captures the beauty of Japan’s landscapes, contrasting sharply with the harsh realities faced by the characters.
While “Silence” may not be as widely known as some of Scorsese’s other works, it’s a deeply moving and thought-provoking film that showcases the director’s ability to tackle complex themes. You can rent or purchase this powerful drama on various digital platforms.
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2. ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ (2013)
Scorsese reunites with Leonardo DiCaprio for “The Wolf of Wall Street,” a black comedy based on the true story of Jordan Belfort. Joined by Jonah Hill and Margot Robbie, DiCaprio delivers a tour-de-force performance as Belfort, a stockbroker who engages in fraud and corruption on Wall Street during the late 1980s and 1990s.
This film is a wild ride from start to finish, chronicling Belfort’s meteoric rise and spectacular fall. Scorsese pulls no punches in depicting the excess and debauchery of Belfort’s lifestyle, resulting in a film that’s equal parts hilarious and horrifying. The energy is relentless, mirroring the fast-paced world of stock trading and the drug-fueled escapades of its characters.
“The Wolf of Wall Street” sparked controversy upon its release due to its explicit content, but it’s undeniably a masterpiece of modern filmmaking. DiCaprio’s performance earned him a Golden Globe, and the film received five Academy Award nominations. You can catch this adrenaline-pumping tale on Paramount+ or rent it on various digital platforms.
1. ‘The Irishman’ (2019)
Topping our list is Scorsese’s epic crime drama, “The Irishman.” This Netflix original brings together an all-star cast including Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci, who came out of retirement for the role. Based on the book “I Heard You Paint Houses,” the film follows Frank Sheeran, a truck driver turned hitman, as he becomes involved with Russell Bufalino and his Pennsylvania crime family, eventually leading to his involvement in the disappearance of labor union leader Jimmy Hoffa.
“The Irishman” is a culmination of Scorsese’s lifelong exploration of organized crime in America. The film spans several decades, utilizing groundbreaking de-aging technology to allow its veteran actors to portray their characters across different time periods. At its core, it’s a reflective and somewhat melancholic look at the cost of a life of crime.
Running at three and a half hours, “The Irishman” is a commitment, but one that pays off handsomely. Scorsese’s direction is as sharp as ever, and the performances from the legendary cast are nothing short of spectacular. The film received ten Academy Award nominations and stands as a towering achievement in Scorsese’s filmography.
You can stream “The Irishman” exclusively on Netflix, making it easily accessible for anyone wanting to experience this modern masterpiece.
Martin Scorsese’s output in the 2010s showcases his incredible range as a filmmaker. From psychological thrillers to family adventures, from religious dramas to raucous comedies, and culminating in a reflective crime epic, Scorsese proved that he’s still at the top of his game. Each of these films offers something unique, and together they form a remarkable body of work that continues to cement Scorsese’s status as one of the greatest directors of all time. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his work, these films offer a perfect starting point to dive into the world of Martin Scorsese.
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