Martin Scorsese Is Unrecognizable in Jaw-Dropping First Look for Star-Studded Crime Thriller

A striking new photo from Julian Schnabel’s upcoming film In the Hand of Dante has fans talking, showing Martin Scorsese in a role that makes him nearly unrecognizable.

The black-and-white image, shared by IndieWire, captures Scorsese as Isaiah, a wise mentor who only appears in the 14th-century segments of the story.

Scorsese, better known for his legendary work behind the camera, has taken on a rare acting role that required a dramatic transformation of his appearance.

The film is based on the 2002 novel by Nick Tosches and follows a lost manuscript of Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy. The story spans centuries, moving from historical Europe to modern-day New York City, where the manuscript comes into the hands of a mob boss and eventually a character named Nick Tosches, played by Oscar Isaac. Isaac also portrays Dante Alighieri in the period sections of the film.

According to IndieWire, Isaiah serves as a key guide for Dante, who seeks his approval while writing Paradiso. “It will take many visits before Isaiah gives it. Dante was sent to him by Guido Cavalcanti, who was his mentor, and visits Isaiah whenever he can over the course of many years while he is in exile.”

In the Hand of Dante boasts a large ensemble cast including Jason Momoa, Gerard Butler, Gal Gadot, Sabrina Impacciatore, Franco Nero, John Malkovich, Louis Cancelmi, Benjamin Clementine, and Al Pacino. Scorsese was initially announced as an executive producer in October 2023, and by February 2024, it was confirmed he would also appear in the film.

The project has a long history. Johnny Depp’s production company first acquired the rights in 2008, with Depp originally planning to star.

Julian Schnabel was announced as director in 2011, but the film underwent multiple casting changes over the years, with Oscar Isaac ultimately replacing Depp in 2023. Filming began in Italy in October 2023, with a SAG-AFTRA interim agreement in place to allow the production to move forward.

In the Hand of Dante is set to premiere out of competition at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on September 3. The film has already leaked online a month before its official debut.

Scorsese’s new look has sparked excitement among fans, many of whom are eager to see him step in front of the camera in a fully transformed role. His performance as Isaiah promises to add depth to a film that blends history, literature, and crime drama.

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