The Films Martin Scorsese Says Everyone Should See at Least Once

Martin Scorsese has long been celebrated for a style defined by intense crime dramas, complex anti-heroes, and a consistent ability to draw out career-best performances from his cast.

His deep professional bond with Robert De Niro began with 1973’s Mean Streets, and since 2002, Leonardo DiCaprio has also become a frequent and vital collaborator in his cinematic world.

The duo has delivered several acclaimed hits, including Gangs of New York, The Aviator, and The Wolf of Wall Street. They most recently reunited for the sprawling historical epic Killers of the Flower Moon.

DiCaprio famously referred to that project as a masterpiece, while critics praised the film for its meticulous craft and its sensitive, necessary examination of dark chapters in American history.

Navigating the vast library of films that Scorsese has either directed or championed can be overwhelming for any viewer. Thankfully, the director has never been shy about sharing his own inspirations.

During a 1994 television appearance, he was asked to name a handful of movies that every person should experience. He ended up providing a diverse list of 16 essential titles that range from American classics to groundbreaking international cinema.

His selections highlight his deep respect for the Golden Age of Hollywood, including works by iconic directors like John Ford, Orson Welles, and John Sturges. He also naturally pointed toward influential gangster films.

Such as Scarface, The Public Enemy, and The Godfather. It was a fitting tribute to cinema history that spanned genres and eras, showcasing the broad foundation upon which his own legendary career is built.

The full list of films Scorsese considers essential includes The Magnificent Seven, Drums Along the Mohawk, Citizen Kane, The Grapes of Wrath, High and Low, Young Mr. Lincoln, The Searchers, The Red Shoes, Stagecoach, Seven Samurai, The Public Enemy, Little Caesar, Scarface, I Walk Alone, Point Blank, and The Godfather.

This year, the 83-year-old director remains incredibly active. He has officially started production on a new psychological thriller titled What Happens at Night, based on a novel by Peter Cameron.

The film features a star-studded cast that includes Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Mads Mikkelsen, Patricia Clarkson, and Jared Harris. The project is being filmed in various locations across the Czech Republic, including Prague, and fans are already eagerly awaiting the unique, atmospheric vision he will bring to this haunting story.

Leonardo DiCaprio continues to be one of the busiest actors in the industry. Beyond his work on the current Scorsese production, he is also attached to the highly anticipated Heat 2, directed by Michael Mann, which is expected to begin shooting shortly after his work with Scorsese wraps.

Both Scorsese and DiCaprio have maintained their status as major power players in Hollywood, consistently seeking out projects that challenge their creative limits and push the boundaries of modern storytelling.

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