Why The Irishman Might Have Fallen Short of Your Expectations

The Irishman, directed by renowned filmmaker Martin Scorsese, objectively presents an almost four-hour crime drama. While the film features the legendary ensemble cast of Goodfellas including Robert DeNiro and Al Pacino, it might not have met every viewer's expectations. Let's explore some reasons why.

Structure and Pacing

One of the prime concerns for many viewers is the length and pacing of the film. At over three and a half hours, the film's epic scope might be challenging for some to sit through. This sheer length can lead to a feeling of overload and a letdown if the narrative or pacing fails to hold attention consistently.

Character Development and Engagement

The characters in The Irishman are often described as banal, overlong, and boring. For instance, the performance of actors like Robert DeNiro and Al Pacino, while iconic, might lack the depth and energy needed to fully engage modern audiences. This is not to say that their performances are bad, but more that they might not align well with contemporary expectations of complex and dynamic character arcs.

Acting and Engaging Performances

While John Pesci's performance stands out, with his understated yet powerful portrayal of Angelo "Lordy" Rizzi, the overall acting could be seen as wooden. DeNiro, in particular, has been phased out of top form, and some viewers might find his performance lacks the intensity and rawness expected from him. Modern audiences often prefer actors who bring a more vibrant and relatable performance, which might not always be the case here.

Could It Work as a Miniseries?

There's a notion that the film could have been more impactful as a miniseries rather than a feature film. Splitting the narrative into multiple episodes might allow for a deeper exploration of each character's journey and enhance the overall storytelling. This format would also provide more room for character development and potentially for more nuanced performances from the cast.

Summary

Whether you found The Irishman to be a letdown or not largely depends on your personal expectations and viewing habits. If you have high standards for filmmaking and a deep appreciation for Scorsese's work, you might still find value in it. However, if you are looking for a fast-paced and emotionally engaging crime drama, the film might not meet those criteria. It's important to recognize that subjective experiences vary widely, and what one person finds lacking, another might cherish.

The film's actors, including Robert DeNiro and Al Pacino, are undoubtedly talented, but the overarching narrative and pacing might not cater to everyone's tastes. If you're considering watching it, it might be worth reflecting on your own expectations and how the film aligns with them. Regardless of how you perceive it, The Irishman represents a significant addition to Scorsese's canon and a testament to the enduring craft of the film industry.