Q&A: What Are Martin Scorsese’s Best Movies?

Ray Liotta, “Goodfellas” (1990) Photo credit: Warner Bros/ The Hollywood Archive

Martin Scorsese is one of the most iconic and influential filmmakers in cinema history. He has directed numerous critically acclaimed and award-winning films throughout his career. Here are some of his best movies:

Goodfellas (1990): Goodfellas is widely considered to be Scorsese’s masterpiece. The film follows the rise and fall of Henry Hill, a mobster in New York City during the 1960s and 1970s. The movie is known for its outstanding performances, sharp editing, and the way it depicts the inner workings of organized crime.

Taxi Driver (1976): Taxi Driver is another iconic film from Scorsese. The movie stars Robert De Niro as a disturbed taxi driver who becomes obsessed with saving a young prostitute played by Jodie Foster. The film is notable for its gritty depiction of New York City and its exploration of themes such as loneliness and mental illness.

Raging Bull (1980): Raging Bull is a biographical drama based on the life of boxer Jake LaMotta, played by Robert De Niro. The film is known for its incredible black and white cinematography, its brutal depiction of violence, and De Niro’s transformative performance.

The Departed (2006): The Departed is a crime thriller that features an all-star cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Jack Nicholson. The film is set in Boston and follows two undercover cops who are trying to bring down a powerful crime boss. The Departed won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.

Casino (1995): Casino is another film that explores organized crime, this time in Las Vegas during the 1970s. The movie stars Robert De Niro as a casino owner and Joe Pesci as a violent enforcer. The film is known for its elaborate set designs, memorable performances, and the way it portrays the excesses and corruption of the Las Vegas casino industry.