The Forrest Gump of Gangster Films.

Rating: 9/10 (25 November 2019)

There has been some debate whether the story in this film is actually true or accurate or if Frank Sheeran was just a fabulist. Martin Scorsese says that is beside the point as he wanted to tell a story about men who live by a violent code of honor that may not be the most productive thing they could have done with their lives. Frank Sheeran like the eponymous Gump seems to be at the center of so many historic events in the 60s and 70s that it has a bit of an epic historical feel to it. Scorsese adds a surprising bit of humour throughout the film especially with pop up captions telling us the fate of minor characters throughout the story. Al Pacino and Robert DeNiro have actually put in a real set of performances in contrast to the lazy efforts and phoning it in for paycheques they have done for the last few years with less talented directors. It was great to see Joe Pesci again on the screen and he plays against type where instead of his trademark volatile and manic performance he gives one that is quiet,chilling and cunning. The period detail and music is first rate and the direction is practically perfect. If you could point to one flaw it would be the length. It seems that lately instead of getting theatrical cuts,more directors are giving us their directors cut which runs 3 hours+ in theaters. There were times I wished in the auditorium that there were still 10 minute intermissions like back in the day to get up and take a break or hit the washroom. That aside I would say this is another classic film that will be added to Scorsese's filmography and a great swansong for him,DeNiro and Pacino and a note taking exercise for everyone at the MCU on how to make a real film.