Liputan6.com, Jakarta - Martin Scorsese, a cinema maestro who has carved his name in the history of world cinema, is known for his profound, daring, and often controversial works.
With his distinctive directing style, he is able to present complex narratives about morality, crime, and the human condition.
Advertisement
Throughout his career, Martin Scorsese has directed numerous iconic films that have not only won prestigious awards but also been loved by critics and audiences worldwide. His work always manages to provoke thought and leave a lasting impression.
This article will review five of Martin Scorsese's best films, based on their high IMDb ratings, providing a comprehensive overview of why these works are considered the pinnacle of his cinematic achievements.
Goodfellas (1990)
Goodfellas (1990) holds the highest IMDb rating among Martin Scorsese's films, with a remarkable 8.7.
Often considered the pinnacle of Martin Scorsese's illustrious career, it delivers a straightforward and stylish gangster classic.
The story centers on the life of Henry Hill (Ray Liotta), a young man seduced by the allure of wealth and luxury within the mafia, and who rises through the criminal hierarchy with unwavering determination.
The film brilliantly blends dark humor, brutal violence, and unforgettable characters to showcase the allure and dangers of the gangster lifestyle.
The captivating performances of the actors, particularly Joe Pesci, earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his iconic role.
The Departed (2006)
The Departed (2006) holds a rating of 8.5/10 on IMDb, making it one of Martin Scorsese's most critically acclaimed works.
It's a chaotic, frenetic, and iconic cat-and-mouse thriller, featuring relentless suspense.
Starring a star-studded cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Mark Wahlberg, and Jack Nicholson, the film is considered one of the best of the 2000s.
The plot follows a mobster infiltrating the Massachusetts State Police and an MSP officer infiltrating the gang as a spy, both tasked with uncovering a traitor within their respective departments with extremely high stakes.
The Departed's success lies not only in its clever storyline, but also in industry recognition; the film won four Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director, making it Martin Scorsese's most awarded film.
Taxi Driver (1976)
With a rating of 8.2/10 on IMDb, Taxi Driver (1976) is a haunting portrait of loneliness and obsession in 1970s New York.
The film depicts a Vietnam veteran, Travis Bickle (Robert De Niro), who takes the law into his own hands on the crime-ridden streets of New York.
Travis Bickle, an unstable taxi driver, descends into violent delusions as he tries to make sense of the decaying city around him.
The in-depth characterization and bleak urban setting create an unforgettable cinematic experience.
The film is known for its gritty, psychological, and deeply disturbing nature, making it one of the most influential films ever made in cinematic history.
Martin Scorsese masterfully captures the essence of urban darkness and isolation.
Raging Bull (1980)
Raging Bull (1980), also rated 8.2/10 on IMDb, presents a raw and uncompromising portrayal of Jake LaMotta's self-destructive rage both inside and outside the ring.
The film is a biographical sports drama based on boxer Jake LaMotta's 1970s memoir, with Robert De Niro playing the role.
The film is best known for the director's choice to shoot in black and white rather than color, an artistic decision intended to enhance the experience and immerse the audience in the setting of 1940s New York City.
This visual aesthetic adds depth to an already powerful narrative.
Robert De Niro's extraordinary performance as Jake LaMotta earned him an Oscar for Best Actor, demonstrating his incredible dedication and transformation for the role.
Martin Scorsese and De Niro once again proved their unmatched collaboration.
Casino (1995)
Rounding out this list is Casino (1995), with a rating of 8.2/10 on IMDb.
The film centers on Sam 'Ace' Rothstein, a small-time mobster who moves to Las Vegas in the early 1970s to run the Tangier casino for his bosses.
This job seems perfect for Sam until he meets Ginger (Sharon Stone), a glamorous but troubled former con artist, and his childhood friend, Tommy, an impulsive gangster who arrives in town.
The dynamic of their relationship leads to conflict and destruction.
Casino is undoubtedly one of Martin Scorsese's most iconic films, with memorable scenes and performances from a stellar cast, including James Woods and Don Rickles.
Sharon Stone, in particular, is unforgettable as Ginger, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.