Sensational film from Scorsese

Rating: 9/10 (7 October 2006)

Having seen The Departed, it simply shows us why Martin Scorsese is still one of the best directors working today. The pace, music, characters, action, dialogue, and casting are all perfect - you would not expect anything else from the director who has brought us some of the greatest films in modern film-making history. Following on from Gangs of New York and The Aviator, the Scorsese/DiCaprio relationship is at its strongest with this tour de force from both - anyone who may still doubt Dicaprio's acting ability need look no further than his first encounter with the police psychiatrist (Vera Farmiga)and his the 'Cranberry juice' scene - reminiscent of Joe Pesci at his uncontrollable best. The inspired choice of Jack Nicholson is something film lovers have been waiting to see for many years, and under the masterful eye of Scorsese, Nicholson is able to give a performance that is both menacing and dangerous with flashes of brutality which are utterly believable. Matt Damon gives, what I think, is his best performance since Goodwill Hunting. Perhaps overshadowed at times by DiCaprio, but any Damon fan will find him a delight to watch. The same must be said, too, of the supporting cast - Mark Wahlberg is excellent in his support role and has some of the films best lines which are delivered well. Alec Baldwin does the role of Police chief with ease, and Martin sheen is, as always, terrific. I urge any fan of great storytelling and character-driven cinema to see The Departed - Scorsese's best film since Casino. 10/10