Review: The Irishman

Directed by Martin Scorsese

Starring: Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Joe Pesci

The plot follows Frank Sheeran (De Niro), a truck driver who becomes a hitman involved with mobster Russell Bufalino (Pesci) and his crime family, including his time working for the powerful Teamster Jimmy Hoffa (Pacino).

One of my most anticipated films of 2019. There is no doubt, that Martin Scorsese is one of the greatest directors in the industry. So upon hearing that he will be directing a film that was supposedly in development hell for the past few years, and that it will star the likes of De Niro, Al Pacino, and Pesci, I got really hyped. Upon finally seeing the pretty long film, I can say that I absolutely enjoyed it and though it was phenomenal, as well as being one of the more mature films in Martin Scorsese's filmography.

The acting is exemplary from the three veterans who manage to impress me every film they are in. Joe Pesci has returned to acting, and takes a break from his usual 'hot-headed' character that he usually plays in Scorsese films, and takes on a more mature role. The writing and the direction of the film is fantastic. Don't expect it to be like Goodfellas, but a more mature take on the gangster life as well as the theme of getting old. You will feel all kinds of emotion going into this film, and in the final hour, you'll feel bittersweet towards the powerful ending.

The production design is immaculate, and instantly transports us back to the 50's, 60's, and 70's. The cinematography is beautiful, and consists of some great long takes. For a 3 and a half hour film, the film does feel smoothly paced, and that's all thanks to long time editing collaborator Thelma Schoonmaker. Although it is slow at times, it is still engaging from beginning to end. As for the de-aging technology, I really didn't mind it. Yes it does feel off at times, but overall doesn't really take me out of the immersion, although you can argue that there is one specific scene it does feel off in (yes the grocery store scene).

In conclusion, there's nothing really negative to say about this film. Be warned, as it isn't your typical gangster Scorsese film, but much deeper than that, and deals with brilliant themes such as the theme of growing old. With phenomenal acting from the three veterans and a captivating story mixed with Scorsese magic, we got ourselves another spectacular Martin Scorsese Picture.

My rating: 9.5/10

#FilmReview #2019