In a controversial opinion piece penned for The New York Times, acclaimed film director Martin Scorcese argued that Marvel movies cannot be classified as cinema. The Onion asked fans of the action movie franchise what they thought of Scorcese’s latest film, Killers Of The Flower Moon, and this is what they said.
I’m speaking specifically about the Irishman, a movie I love btw. But do I think it is more artistically “valid” than infinity war? No.
It is less creatively “risky” than not doing another gangster film, thats simply a fact. And that’s okay. On some level, it is a “lets get the gang back together for one more ride” movie. On some level, all the players involved have certainly earned the right to do that. But it is odd to criticize studios for essentially taking the exact same approach to film making, especially for movies with massive commercial success - even if you argue that the quality of the art produced isn’t the same.
Pacino’s role is a good example. He practically admitted that he was too old for the role off Jimmy Hoffa after filming, in multiple different interviews. So why was he chosen? You said it yourself - people want to see one of the most beloved Italian American gangster actors get directed by one one most beloved Italian American gangster directors. And you are a fanboy over it. And that is okay. I “forgive” you or whatever. I am too.
It goes to show that formula film making can produce great films, and that the MCU movies that are bad (for many are fine films) aren’t bad because they are based on comic books, or because there is multiple of them. Comic books that were extremely artistic and considered important works of 20th century science fiction in their own right (talking about Jack Kirby specifically). I would argue that eventually the MCU did become a very cynical excercise that is determined more by studio number crunching. That happens for all sorts of reasons in Hollywood.
Where exactly did I say that? Do not put words in my mouth and please do not refer to me as a fanboy as that’s mental laziness on your part.
Speaking of fanboy, I’m well informed regarding Jack Kirby (Machine Man? Devil Dinosaur? Destroyer Duck?)…and Joe Simon…and Jack Cole, Will Eisner, Jim Steranko, Jim Starlin, Alan Moore, etc. Household names, huh? Extremely artistic and important works of 20th century science-fiction, eh? Give me a break. Ask the person in the cubicle next to yours who created Batman and enjoy the blank stare. Stan’s almost a household name because he was a relentless publicity hound.
But now we’re veering off-topic into other territory and, frankly, I’m bored arguing with Philistines. Good night and good luck.
This gives the game away, although I’m sure you were joking.
Marty’s common refrain has been “there is an emotional core to this movie - we had a meeting!”
Look, there is a business to high production films, and we have to accept that. Marty clearly has, has participated in it, and used his well earned artistic reputation to criticize it. Good stuff.
🤝