The Irishman (2019): A Reflected Critical Milestone of the American Dream
The Irishman (2019) directed by Martin Scorsese, stars Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, and Joe Pesci, and is a significant film in the genre of mafia biopics. This movie is not a Goodfellas; it is Oldfellas, a somber reflection of midcentury America as seen through the lens of a hitman named Frank Sheeran who allegedly befriended and murdered infamous Teamsters boss Jimmy Hoffa.
Innovative Cinematic Techniques
Scorsese's approach to this film is toned down, perhaps as a deliberate choice to match the themes with muted colors and a mature framing. The focus is on the impact of the mafia on family, especially Sheeran's sensitive daughter, Peggy, portrayed by Anna Paquin. Her adult role as Peggy serves as the moral center of the story, her horror of Bufalino serving as a constant reprimand.
Performance and Integrity
The performances in The Irishman are commendable, with De Niro's subdued voiceover and Pacino's energetic presence being notable. While Pacino's performance brings much-needed energy to the film, his character seems to circle around his self-satisfied persona, dealing with similar work-life issues repeatedly. De Niro's delivery of dialogue is less vibrant than in his earlier roles, with a more contemplative and wearying tone.
Themes and Storytelling
The narrative is heavily dependent on its cast of characters and the experience of the seasoned actors on screen. Notable supporting actors include Harvey Keitel, Ray Romano, and Bobby Cannavale, contributing to the thematic overload of The Irishman. The film explores the dark and gritty world of the mafia, interspersed with an historical account of significant events influencing midcentury America.
Critique of Adaptation and Pacing
The film is criticized for its slow pacing and excessive length, primarily sustained by strong performances. Key moments, such as courtroom scenes and flashbacks, are over-amplified, diluting the impact of more engaging set pieces. Scorsese's vision takes a backseat to a bloated midsection filled with exposition and repetitive dialogue, resulting in a compromised viewing experience.
Visuals and De-aging
The de-aging effects in the film have been noted as jarring. Maria Schneider, dressed in period costumes, appears in a jowly, middle-aged form rather than showcasing the De Niro of Mean Streets. The visual transformation does not reflect the character's journey in a believable manner. While Pesci's role is less prominent, his presence remains chilling and effective in his capacity as a capo.
Conclusion: The Demise of the Classic Mafia Film
The Irishman is a critical examination of American dreams and the mafia's influence on them. It stands as a testament to Scorsese's skills as a director and the power of his performances, particularly Pacino's. However, the film's length and pacing issues, along with the oversaturation of courtroom scenes, have left a mixed impression in the cinematic landscape. Its draw to streaming services and limited theatrical release indicate the changing viewer preferences. The film marks the end of an era in the mafia biopic genre, where abrupt violence and unapologetic storytelling once reigned supreme. Not only is this a swansong for Scorsese's classic style, but it also reflects a shift in the types of narratives and visual experiences that audiences seek.
The film's fate on streaming services epitomizes a critical moment in the film industry, suggesting that the traditional theatrical experience may no longer be the primary or even preferred mode of consumption for many film enthusiasts. The Irishman serves as a poignant reminder of a classic genre and the evolving tastes of the audience, perhaps discarding the archetypical template of the traditional 'mob movie' era.