Best Martin Scorsese Movies: 25 Scorsese Films You Just Can’t Miss

Martin Scorsese is a fantastic filmmaker who’s brought many brilliant films to screens all over the world.

 In this article, we list what we believe to be the best Martin Scorsese movies.

Scorsese has produced screen magic with Goodfellas, Taxi Driver, and Raging Bull, among many others.

His cinematic canon is wide and deep and we believe this list demonstrates that.

So whether you’re doing research on him, or ready to sit down and watch one of these movies tonight, this list of the top Martin Scorsese films will be just what you need!

It should be noted that we’ve included the films in a rough ranking order. But with a filmmaker like Martin Scorsese, the work is so good that it’s really hard to form an exact order.

So, without further ado, let’s jump right in and list the best Martin Scorsese films!

The Best Martin Scorsese Movies

Let’s start off with an absolute cinema classic, Taxi Driver.

Taxi Driver (1976)

Taxi Driver is a American psychological thriller film directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro, Jodie Foster, and Harvey Keitel.

The film tells the story of Travis Bickle (De Niro), a lonely and disturbed Vietnam War veteran who works as a taxi driver in New York City.

Bickle becomes increasingly disillusioned with the seedy underbelly of the city, and as his mental state deteriorates, he becomes obsessed with saving Iris (Foster), a young prostitute he encounters on the job.

He also develops a romantic interest in a campaign worker named Betsy (Cybill Shepherd), but his awkward attempts to woo her are unsuccessful.

As Bickle becomes more and more unstable, he begins to spiral out of control, leading to a violent and shocking climax.

Taxi Driver is a powerful and intense film that explores themes of isolation, violence, and mental illness.

De Niro’s performance as Bickle is a tour de force, and the film’s stark cinematography and haunting score contribute to its bleak and unsettling atmosphere.

Despite its controversial subject matter, Taxi Driver was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a landmark film in American cinema, as well as one of Scorsese’s most iconic works.

It has been hailed as a classic of the New Hollywood era, and is often cited as one of the greatest films ever made.

 

Goodfellas (1990)

Goodfellas is a crime drama film directed by Martin Scorsese, based on the non-fiction book “Wiseguy” by Nicholas Pileggi.

The film follows the rise and fall of Henry Hill (Ray Liotta), a young man who dreams of becoming a gangster in the mafia.

The film also stars Robert De Niro as Jimmy Conway, Joe Pesci as Tommy DeVito, and Lorraine Bracco as Karen Hill.

The film begins in the 1950s with a young Henry Hill, who is fascinated by the glamour and power of the local mobsters in his Brooklyn neighborhood.

He soon becomes a member of their crew, committing small-time crimes and rising through the ranks.

Along the way, he meets Jimmy and Tommy, two other mobsters who become his close friends.

As Henry becomes more involved with the mob, he marries Karen and they have children.

However, his life starts to unravel when he is arrested for drug trafficking and agrees to become an informant for the FBI.

This puts him in danger from his former associates, who are determined to silence him and protect their criminal enterprise.

Goodfellas is a thrilling, intense film that showcases the dark side of the American Dream.

Scorsese’s direction is masterful, with the film’s fast pace, strong performances, and stylish visual flourishes making it a cinematic tour-de-force.

The film’s exploration of loyalty, violence, and greed is both compelling and unsettling, and it remains a classic of the crime genre.

Goodfellas is a must-see for fans of Scorsese, as well as for anyone interested in the complexities of organized crime.

 

 

 

 

Casino (1995)

“Casino” is a crime drama directed by Martin Scorsese and stars Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Sharon Stone.

The film is based on the true story of Frank “Lefty” Rosenthal and his involvement with the Chicago Outfit and Las Vegas casinos during the 1970s and 1980s.

The film follows Sam “Ace” Rothstein (De Niro), a professional gambler who is sent to Las Vegas to run the Tangiers Casino for the Chicago Outfit.

Along with his best friend Nicky Santoro (Pesci), Ace runs the casino with ruthless efficiency, but as their power and influence grows, they attract the attention of law enforcement and the FBI.

As Ace struggles to keep the casino afloat and Nicky descends into a world of drugs and violence, they both become entangled in a dangerous web of greed, corruption, and betrayal.

Meanwhile, Ace falls in love with Ginger McKenna (Stone), a former prostitute with a troubled past, whose relationship with Ace becomes increasingly volatile as her addiction to drugs and alcohol worsens.

Scorsese’s masterful direction and the strong performances of the cast make “Casino” a thrilling and intense viewing experience.

The film’s unflinching portrayal of the criminal underworld, its decadence and brutality, is both shocking and mesmerizing.

While the film is long and at times meandering, it is ultimately a powerful exploration of the dark side of the American dream, and the price one pays for seeking success and power at any cost.

 

 

After Hours (1985)

“After Hours” is a dark comedy directed by Martin Scorsese.

The film follows the story of a man named Paul Hackett (Griffin Dunne) who, after meeting a woman named Marcy (Rosanna Arquette) in a coffee shop, sets out on an adventure in New York City that becomes increasingly surreal and dangerous.

The film has been praised for its frenetic pace, dark humor, and surreal imagery, as well as for its depiction of the seedy underbelly of New York City in the 1980s.

Dunne’s performance as Hackett has been particularly lauded for its ability to anchor the film’s wild narrative while still allowing the strange events around him to take center stage.

Raging Bull (1980)

Martin Scorsese’s Raging Bull is a biographical drama based on the life of middleweight boxer Jake LaMotta, played brilliantly by Robert De Niro.

The film is a visceral and intense exploration of the boxer’s rise and fall in the boxing world, as well as his personal life outside the ring.

The film is famous for its innovative and raw visual style, which captures the raw intensity of boxing matches with visceral close-ups and dramatic camera movements.

The fight scenes are filmed with a brutal realism that leaves a lasting impact on the viewer.

However, the film is not just about boxing.

It also explores the complex relationship between LaMotta and his wife, played by Cathy Moriarty, as well as his self-destructive tendencies, jealousy and paranoia, which ultimately lead to his downfall.

De Niro’s performance is truly remarkable, as he gained over 50 pounds to play LaMotta in his later years.

His portrayal of the boxer is both mesmerizing and terrifying, as he embodies the physical and emotional brutality of a man who is his own worst enemy.

Mean Streets (1973)

“Mean Streets” is an American crime drama film directed by Martin Scorsese, which explores the lives of a group of Italian-American small-time crooks in New York City’s Little Italy neighborhood.

The film is loosely based on Scorsese’s own experiences growing up in the same neighborhood.

The story follows Charlie (Harvey Keitel), a low-level member of the Mafia who is torn between his loyalty to his best friend Johnny Boy (Robert De Niro), a reckless and unpredictable hoodlum, and his desire to rise in the ranks of the organization.

As Charlie tries to navigate the dangerous and chaotic world of organized crime, he also struggles with his own guilt and religious convictions.

The film’s intense character study and powerful performances by Keitel and De Niro make it a must-see for fans of crime dramas.

Scorsese’s masterful direction, coupled with his use of music, cinematography, and editing, make “Mean Streets” a groundbreaking work that is widely regarded as one of the director’s best films.

With its gritty realism and unflinching portrayal of violence, “Mean Streets” helped establish Scorsese as a major talent in Hollywood and influenced a generation of filmmakers.

It’s a classic film that has stood the test of time and remains a powerful and compelling exploration of the human condition.

 

 

 

 

The King of Comedy (1983)

The King of Comedy is a dark comedy directed by Martin Scorsese and stars Robert De Niro, Jerry Lewis, and Sandra Bernhard.

The film follows Rupert Pupkin, a struggling comedian who dreams of being a successful performer and appearing on the popular TV show hosted by Jerry Langford.

Pupkin is obsessed with Langford and hatches a plan to kidnap him in order to secure his own spot on the show.

Along the way, he enlists the help of fellow fan Masha and navigates the challenges of show business.

The King of Comedy explores themes of celebrity obsession, ambition, and the blurred line between reality and fantasy.

De Niro delivers a masterful performance as the delusional and desperate Pupkin, while Lewis brings depth to the role of the tortured celebrity Langford.

Scorsese’s direction is both sharp and subtle, capturing the dark humor and discomfort of the film’s premise while also providing moments of genuine empathy and connection.

The King of Comedy is a must-see for fans of Scorsese’s work and those interested in exploring the darker side of fame and ambition.

 

 

The Last Temptation of Christ (1988)

The Last Temptation of Christ is a film directed by Martin Scorsese and based on the novel of the same name by Nikos Kazantzakis.

The film tells the story of Jesus Christ (played by Willem Dafoe) and his inner struggles as he comes to terms with his role as the son of God.

The film is controversial and was met with protests from religious groups upon its release.

This is due in part to its portrayal of Jesus as a flawed and vulnerable man, grappling with his own doubts and fears.

The film follows Jesus as he goes through his ministry and struggles to reconcile his divine mission with his own human desires.

He is tempted by the Devil and is ultimately faced with a choice between fulfilling his destiny on the cross or living a normal life.

The Last Temptation of Christ is a deeply thought-provoking film that explores complex theological themes and the nature of faith.

It features a standout performance by Willem Dafoe, who brings an intense and emotional depth to the role of Jesus.

While the film may not be for everyone, it is a powerful and moving portrayal of a man who is both human and divine, and the struggles he faces in reconciling those two aspects of himself.

 

The Departed (2006)

The Departed is a crime drama film directed by Martin Scorsese and stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Jack Nicholson.

The film follows the story of two men, one a police officer named Billy Costigan (DiCaprio) and the other a gang member named Colin Sullivan (Damon), who are assigned to infiltrate each other’s organizations and gather information.

As Billy works to gain the trust of the gang, Colin tries to uncover the identity of the police informant within his organization.

As both men get deeper into their respective roles, tensions rise and the lines between good and bad become increasingly blurred.

With a stellar cast, gripping plot, and intense action scenes, The Departed is a must-see for fans of crime dramas.

Scorsese’s direction is masterful, and the film’s twists and turns keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

The film also won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Film Editing.

 

 

 

The Wolf of Wall Street (2011)

The Wolf of Wall Street is a crime comedy-drama directed by Martin Scorsese, based on the memoir of the same name by Jordan Belfort.

The film follows the rise and fall of Belfort (played by Leonardo DiCaprio), a stockbroker who engages in fraudulent practices and a decadent lifestyle in the 1990s.

Belfort, along with his business partner Donnie Azoff (played by Jonah Hill), starts a penny stock brokerage firm that makes them incredibly wealthy.

They use their wealth to indulge in a lavish lifestyle filled with drugs, sex, and other vices.

However, their success attracts the attention of the FBI, and Belfort’s illegal activities eventually catch up to him.

The film is a wild, drug-fueled ride through Belfort’s life and the excesses of the 1990s.

Scorsese’s direction is frenetic and immersive, with frequent use of voiceovers, fast-paced editing, and fourth-wall breaking moments.

DiCaprio’s performance as Belfort is a tour de force, showcasing the character’s charm, charisma, and cruelty.

While the film has been criticized for glorifying Belfort’s behavior, it also presents a scathing critique of the excesses and corruption of Wall Street during the 1990s.

The Wolf of Wall Street is an entertaining and provocative film that explores the darker side of the American Dream.

The Irishman (2019)

The Irishman is a crime drama film directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci.

The film is based on the true story of Frank Sheeran, a mob hitman who claimed to be involved in the disappearance of labor union leader Jimmy Hoffa.

The film spans several decades, beginning in the 1950s and ending in the early 2000s, and follows the life of Frank Sheeran as he rises through the ranks of the mafia and becomes a trusted associate of Hoffa (played by Pacino).

As Sheeran becomes more deeply involved in the criminal underworld, he must navigate dangerous alliances and make difficult choices that have far-reaching consequences.

At its core, The Irishman is a meditation on the nature of loyalty and the human cost of a life of crime.

Scorsese’s signature direction and the excellent performances from De Niro, Pacino, and Pesci make for a gripping and emotionally resonant film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The Irishman has been praised for its epic scope and attention to detail, as well as for its exploration of themes such as aging, regret, and mortality.

However, some have criticized the film for its length (clocking in at just under 3.5 hours) and slow pace, as well as for the use of digital de-aging technology on the actors.

 

Shutter Island (2010)

Shutter Island is a psychological thriller directed by Martin Scorsese and based on the novel by Dennis Lehane.

The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio as U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels, who is investigating the disappearance of a patient from a remote hospital for the criminally insane on Shutter Island.

As Daniels and his partner (Mark Ruffalo) delve deeper into the case, they encounter a web of mysteries, conspiracies, and disturbing hallucinations that make them question their own sanity.

The film takes place in the 1950s, and the atmospheric setting, haunting score, and masterful cinematography all contribute to a sense of claustrophobia and unease that builds throughout the film.

The performances are uniformly excellent, with DiCaprio in particular delivering a nuanced and intense portrayal of a man haunted by his past and struggling to maintain his grip on reality.

Scorsese’s direction is masterful as always, and he expertly builds tension and suspense while also exploring weighty themes such as guilt, trauma, and the nature of sanity.

The plot is full of twists and turns, and the ending is sure to leave viewers thinking and debating long after the credits roll.

 

Hugo (2011)

Director Martin Scorsese departs from his usual fare of gritty, urban dramas to deliver a family-friendly adventure set in 1930s Paris.

Hugo is a visually stunning film that celebrates the magic of cinema, the power of imagination, and the wonder of childhood.

Adapted from Brian Selznick’s novel The Invention of Hugo Cabret, the film follows the titular character (played by Asa Butterfield), a young orphan who lives in the walls of a Paris train station.

Hugo spends his days fixing clocks and stealing parts to rebuild a broken automaton left to him by his late father.

The automaton holds the key to a mystery that could change Hugo’s life forever.

As Hugo attempts to repair the automaton, he encounters Georges Méliès (Ben Kingsley), a reclusive toy shop owner who turns out to be a pioneering filmmaker.

With the help of Isabelle (Chloë Grace Moretz), Georges’ goddaughter, Hugo embarks on a quest to uncover the truth about the automaton and the enigmatic Méliès.

Scorsese’s love for cinema is evident in every frame of Hugo.

The film is a tribute to the pioneers of cinema and the art of storytelling, showcasing how movies have the power to transport us to new worlds and inspire our imaginations.

The stunning 3D cinematography and set design bring the world of 1930s Paris to life, immersing viewers in a world of wonder and magic.

 

 

Who’s That Knocking at My Door (1967)

Who’s That Knocking at My Door is a film that marked the directorial debut of Martin Scorsese.

The film explores the lives of young people in New York City in the 1960s, focusing on their romantic relationships, struggles, and anxieties.

The story follows J.R. (played by Harvey Keitel), a Catholic Italian-American who spends his time hanging out with his buddies, drinking, and pursuing women.

However, his world is turned upside down when he meets a girl named The Girl (played by Zina Bethune), and falls in love with her.

Their relationship is complicated by J.R.’s strict Catholic upbringing and his misogynistic attitudes, which threaten to tear them apart.

As their relationship evolves, J.R. must confront his own prejudices and come to terms with his past in order to move forward.

The film is notable for its use of jump cuts, a non-linear narrative, and Scorsese’s signature style of depicting the gritty reality of life in New York City.

The film’s themes of Catholic guilt, male insecurity, and the search for identity and love are woven throughout, making for a thought-provoking and emotionally engaging viewing experience.

 

The Color of Money (1986)

“The Color of Money” is a drama film directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Paul Newman, Tom Cruise, and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio.

It is a sequel to the 1961 film “The Hustler” and follows the story of Fast Eddie Felson, a former pool hustler who mentors a young and talented pool player named Vincent Lauria.

Fast Eddie Felson (Newman) has retired from the game of pool and now runs a liquor business.

He discovers Vincent Lauria (Cruise) and sees in him the talent and the drive that he once had.

Felson decides to take Lauria under his wing and teach him how to be a professional pool player.

As they travel across the country, Felson tries to teach Lauria the ways of the game while also dealing with his own personal demons.

The two of them have a complicated relationship that is both mentor-mentee and father-son, and their bond is tested as they compete in high-stakes pool games and navigate the world of pool hustlers.

“The Color of Money” is a well-crafted film that boasts strong performances from Newman and Cruise.

Newman’s portrayal of Fast Eddie Felson is nuanced and complex, as he struggles to come to terms with his own mortality and the mistakes he made in his past.

Cruise, in one of his early roles, is charismatic as the young and ambitious Vincent Lauria, and his chemistry with Newman is a highlight of the film.

Scorsese’s direction is solid, and he brings his signature style to the film, with dynamic camera work and intense pool scenes.

The film also features a memorable score by Robbie Robertson and a standout performance by Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio as Vincent’s girlfriend and Fast Eddie’s love interest.

 

 

Boxcar Bertha (1972)

Boxcar Bertha is a American crime drama film directed by Martin Scorsese and produced by Roger Corman.

The film is based on the autobiography of the real-life Bertha Thompson, a woman who lived in the early 20th century and became a hobo and criminal.

The film follows Bertha (played by Barbara Hershey) as she travels across the country by hopping trains with her partner Rake Brown (played by David Carradine), committing robberies and other crimes along the way.

Eventually, Bertha and Rake fall in with the union movement, where they become involved in a violent strike against a railroad company.

As the strike turns increasingly bloody and the authorities crack down on the union, Bertha and Rake must decide whether to stay and fight or flee for their lives.

Boxcar Bertha is a gritty, low-budget film that is notable for being Scorsese’s second feature film and for featuring early performances by Hershey and Carradine.

While the film is not as well-known as some of Scorsese’s later works, it is a fascinating look at a little-explored corner of American history and features the director’s signature visual style and attention to detail.

Though the film can be somewhat uneven at times and lacks the polish of Scorsese’s later works, it is a compelling portrait of a bygone era and a reminder of the director’s early talent and potential.

 

 

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New York, New York (1977)

“New York, New York” is a musical drama film directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro and Liza Minnelli.

Set in the 1940s and 1950s, the film follows the tumultuous relationship between two musicians, Jimmy Doyle (De Niro) and Francine Evans (Minnelli), as they navigate their careers and love lives.

The film is notable for its impressive musical numbers, which pay homage to the golden age of Hollywood musicals.

The standout song, “New York, New York,” has become an iconic anthem for the city and one of the most recognizable songs in American popular culture.

Despite its impressive production values and strong performances, the film received mixed reviews upon release and struggled to find an audience.

However, in the years since, it has gained a cult following and is now widely regarded as a notable entry in Scorsese’s filmography.

 

Cape Fear (1991)

Cape Fear is a psychological thriller directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro, Nick Nolte, and Jessica Lange.

The film is a remake of the 1962 movie of the same name, and follows convicted rapist Max Cady (De Niro) as he seeks revenge against his former defense attorney Sam Bowden (Nolte), who he believes did not do enough to help him during his trial.

The movie begins with Cady’s release from prison after serving a 14-year sentence.

He is a changed man, having become well-educated and physically fit during his time behind bars.

Cady sets his sights on Bowden and his family, stalking them and terrorizing them in various ways.

As the tension builds, Bowden hires a private investigator (played by Joe Don Baker) to help protect his family, but the situation quickly spirals out of control.

De Niro’s performance as Cady is chilling and intense, portraying the character as both menacing and charismatic.

Nolte is also strong as Bowden, a man whose perfect life is slowly unraveling due to his past mistakes.

Scorsese’s direction is masterful, creating a sense of constant unease and tension throughout the film.

The cinematography, score, and use of sound also contribute to the movie’s unsettling atmosphere.

While the film is a remake, it stands on its own as a gripping and suspenseful thriller.

It explores themes of morality, vengeance, and justice, and asks the question of whether the punishment Cady received for his crimes was enough.

 

 

Gangs of New York (2002)

Gangs of New York is a period drama film directed by Martin Scorsese, and it stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Daniel Day-Lewis, and Cameron Diaz.

The film is set in 1862 New York City, during the height of the Civil War. The story revolves around two rival gangs, the Irish-American “Dead Rabbits” led by Priest Vallon (Liam Neeson) and the anti-immigrant “Nativist” gang, led by William Cutting (Day-Lewis).

DiCaprio plays Amsterdam Vallon, the son of Priest Vallon who seeks revenge against William Cutting, the man who killed his father.

Amsterdam infiltrates Cutting’s gang and gains his trust in order to exact his revenge.

However, as Amsterdam spends more time with Cutting and his gang, he starts to see the complexity of their motives and begins to question his own desires for revenge.

The film is a gritty and violent portrayal of 19th century New York City, and it does not shy away from the brutal reality of the time.

The performances of the actors are outstanding, with Day-Lewis delivering a particularly powerful and unforgettable performance as the ruthless William Cutting.

Gangs of New York was well-received by critics and audiences alike, and it was nominated for ten Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.

 

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Bringing Out the Dead (1999)

Bringing Out the Dead is a gritty, intense and haunting film directed by Martin Scorsese, which explores the world of paramedics working the night shift in New York City.

Set in the late 1990s, the film follows Frank Pierce (played by Nicolas Cage), a burnt-out paramedic who is haunted by the ghosts of his past patients.

Over the course of three nights, Frank is forced to confront his demons and find some sense of redemption as he tries to save the life of a drug addict (played by Patricia Arquette) whom he becomes infatuated with.

The film is notable for its stunning visual style, which captures the frenetic energy and neon-lit streets of New York City.

Scorsese masterfully creates a world that is simultaneously exhilarating and claustrophobic, showcasing the city’s beauty and brutality in equal measure.

The performances in Bringing Out the Dead are exceptional, particularly from Cage, who delivers a powerful and nuanced portrayal of a man on the brink of collapse.

Arquette, John Goodman, and Ving Rhames also give strong performances as Frank’s fellow paramedics, who each have their own unique coping mechanisms for dealing with the stress of the job.

 

The Aviator (2004)

The Aviator is a biographical drama film directed by Martin Scorsese, which chronicles the life of Howard Hughes, a wealthy aviation pioneer, film producer, and businessman.

The film is set in the 1920s and 1930s, and follows Hughes as he navigates the aviation industry, becomes a film producer, and battles his own personal demons.

Leonardo DiCaprio stars as Howard Hughes, who is portrayed as a brilliant yet troubled individual.

Cate Blanchett plays Katharine Hepburn, who has a tumultuous relationship with Hughes, while Kate Beckinsale portrays Ava Gardner, another one of Hughes’ lovers.

The supporting cast includes John C. Reilly, Alec Baldwin, and Alan Alda.

The film received critical acclaim for its stunning visuals, direction, and performances.

DiCaprio received widespread praise for his portrayal of Hughes, earning him a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actor.

 

Kundun (1997)

Kundun is a biographical film directed by Martin Scorsese and tells the story of the 14th Dalai Lama, from his early life in Tibet to his forced exile in India.

The film explores the political turmoil and spiritual awakening that the young Dalai Lama experiences in Tibet and his ultimate journey to becoming the leader of his people.

The film begins with the young boy Tenzin Gyatso (played by Tenzin Thuthob Tsarong) being identified as the 14th reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, and follows his journey as he grows and learns in Tibet.

The boy’s spiritual journey is deeply intertwined with the political turmoil of the time, as China seeks to exert its influence on Tibet and control the Dalai Lama.

As Tenzin grows into the Dalai Lama and leader of his people, he is faced with the difficult decision of whether to stay and fight for his homeland or flee to safety in India.

His decision to leave Tibet and seek refuge in India sets the stage for the remainder of the film, which explores his struggles with exile and his efforts to help his people from afar.

The film is visually stunning, with gorgeous cinematography and production design that capture the beauty and majesty of Tibet.

The performances, particularly by Tenzin Thuthob Tsarong as the young Dalai Lama, are powerful and moving.

Scorsese’s direction brings a sense of authenticity and reverence to the story, and the film is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

The Age of Innocence (1993)

Martin Scorsese’s The Age of Innocence is a beautifully crafted adaptation of Edith Wharton’s novel of the same name.

The film is a lavish period drama set in New York City in the 1870s and revolves around the story of a wealthy young lawyer named Newland Archer (Daniel Day-Lewis), who finds himself torn between his love for the beautiful but unconventional Countess Ellen Olenska (Michelle Pfeiffer) and his commitment to his society fiancée May Welland (Winona Ryder).

The film beautifully captures the customs, traditions, and societal expectations of the upper-class New Yorkers of the era.

Scorsese’s direction, combined with Michael Ballhaus’s stunning cinematography, creates a visually striking film that transports the audience to a bygone era.

The film’s stunning costumes, elaborate sets, and meticulous attention to detail are a testament to the talented crew behind the scenes.

The performances of the three leads are exceptional, with Day-Lewis particularly shining in his portrayal of Archer, a man struggling to reconcile his feelings with his social responsibilities.

Pfeiffer also stands out as the Countess, a woman who refuses to conform to the rigid societal norms of her time, making her an outcast in the society in which she moves.

The film’s pacing and attention to detail may make it a slow-burn for some viewers, but for those willing to invest their time, it is a masterclass in filmmaking.

The Age of Innocence is a powerful exploration of love, tradition, and the societal constraints that dictate our lives.

 

Silence (2016)

Silence is a historical drama film directed by Martin Scorsese, based on the 1966 novel of the same name by Shusaku Endo.

Set in the 17th century, the film tells the story of two Jesuit priests, Father Sebastião Rodrigues (Andrew Garfield) and Father Francisco Garupe (Adam Driver), who travel to Japan to locate their former mentor, Father Cristóvão Ferreira (Liam Neeson), who is rumored to have apostatized and renounced his faith.

Upon arriving in Japan, Rodrigues and Garupe are shocked to find a country where Christianity is outlawed and its followers are persecuted, often brutally.

The two priests are forced to go underground, secretly ministering to a small group of Japanese Christians while evading the authorities, led by the Inquisitor (Issei Ogata).

As they search for Ferreira, the two priests are subjected to countless trials and tribulations, testing the limits of their faith and their commitment to their mission.

Silence is a visually stunning and emotionally gripping film, with Scorsese masterfully capturing the beauty and brutality of 17th century Japan.

The film’s themes of faith, sacrifice, and religious persecution are handled with sensitivity and nuance, and the performances of the lead actors are outstanding, particularly Garfield’s portrayal of Rodrigues, who undergoes a profound transformation throughout the course of the film.

 

Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore (1974)

Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore is a dramatic comedy directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Ellen Burstyn, Kris Kristofferson, and Harvey Keitel.

Burstyn plays Alice Hyatt, a recently widowed mother who decides to leave her old life behind and start anew with her young son in California.

Along the way, she finds herself in a variety of situations, from waitressing to singing in a piano bar, as she tries to make ends meet and figure out what she wants in life.

The film is a departure from Scorsese’s usual gritty, violent fare, and instead focuses on character development and the challenges of self-discovery.

Burstyn delivers a powerful performance as Alice, showcasing her range as an actress and earning herself an Academy Award for Best Actress.

The supporting cast is also strong, with Kristofferson playing Alice’s love interest and Keitel as a volatile and complex suitor.

 

The Best Martin Scorsese Movies – Wrapping Up

So there you have it. The top Martin Scorsese films. As you can see, he’s been responsible for some classics of cinema history and it’s clear to see why he’s considered one of the all-time greats.

Now you have a complete guide and list of the best Martin Scorsese movies ever made. What are you going to watch next?

If you’re sitting down to watch one of these tonight, we envy you. You’re in for a real treat!

We hope this list of the best Martin Scorsese movies has been helpful. Did we miss your favorite? Let us know in the comments section.
 

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