Pacino absolutely steals this film, my word!

Rating: 8/10 (27 November 2019)

Pacino is simply a marvel in this film, I can't get over it. He's the oldest guy in the cast, yet the energy he lends the character of Jimmy Hoffa is extraordinary. The man is almost 80 and you could still make a case to say this is one of his career best performances.
Pesci, though, is not far behind and his character here is just as intimidating as we're used to from him, but in a more subtle, refined and chilling approach to his character. Can I just say this guy is a legend and it is just amazing to see him back on screen, at the top of his game? De Niro, too, shows range I never knew he had, and Scorsese adds a field of depth to his character that we simply haven't seen in De Niro's previous gangster films. No doubt the 209 minute running time helped with this!
The running time is indeed a bit overwhelming, but I do strongly suggest still seeing this in one go. Those expecting the 'Goodfellas' vibe will need to adjust their expectations, the first half of the film is more slower paced and establishing, but once this film hits its stride, you'll find yourself gripping the armrests for dear life. Some beautiful exchanges and scenes, and some haunting, melancholy imagery permeate the narrative throughout.
The reflective, nostalgic tone of this film feels like a appropriate homage to these four legends of cinema (including Mr Scorsese); indeed, the entire film feels like a love letter to this buried genre of cinema. De Niro's reminiscence in this film, feels so authentic, almost like he is looking back at his own acting youth.
I'm already looking forward to another re-watch at the weekend. Thank you Marty!