In 1989, he appeared in four films, including James Ivory's comedy "Slaves of New York", Howard Brookner's ensemble period film "Bloodhounds of Broadway" and the "New York Stories" segment directed by Martin Scorsese entitled, "Life Lessons" starring alongside Nick Nolte and Rosanna Arquette. The film screened out of competition at the 1989 Cannes Film Festival to mixed reviews with the Scorsese segment being hailed as the standout by Roger Ebert. Buscemi also appeared in Jim Jarmusch's independent film "Mystery Train" (1989) as Charlie the Barber, and was nominated for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Male.