Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the incredible world of Martin Scorsese, one of cinema's most influential and respected directors. We're going to explore his complete filmography and guide you on where to watch these masterpieces. If you're a film buff, a casual movie watcher, or just curious about Scorsese, you're in the right place. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let’s get started!

Early Life and Influences

Before we get into the films, let's take a quick look at what shaped Scorsese into the legendary director he is today. Born on November 17, 1942, in Queens, New York, Martin Charles Scorsese grew up in the neighborhood of Little Italy in Manhattan. This environment, steeped in Italian-American culture and the gritty realities of urban life, profoundly influenced his storytelling. Scorsese's upbringing was deeply rooted in his family's traditions and the close-knit community around him.

Growing up, Scorsese was a sickly child, often confined to his home. This isolation led him to spend countless hours watching movies, sparking a lifelong passion for cinema. He was particularly drawn to classic Hollywood films, Italian neorealism, and French New Wave cinema. Directors like John Ford, Orson Welles, and Roberto Rossellini became his early idols. These influences are evident throughout his career, as he often blends classical filmmaking techniques with innovative storytelling approaches.

Scorsese initially intended to become a priest and even attended a preparatory seminary. However, his love for film proved too strong, and he eventually enrolled in New York University's film school. It was here that he began to hone his craft, experimenting with different styles and techniques. His early short films and student projects already showcased his unique vision and his ability to capture the raw energy of urban life. This period was crucial in developing his signature style, characterized by dynamic camerawork, gritty realism, and a deep understanding of human nature. His time at NYU laid the groundwork for what would become one of the most celebrated careers in film history, marking the beginning of his journey from a young, aspiring filmmaker to a cinematic icon.

Feature Films

Who's That Knocking at My Door (1967)

Who's That Knocking at My Door marks the beginning of Scorsese's feature film journey. This film offers a raw and intimate look at the life of J.R., a young Italian-American man grappling with his cultural identity and moral conflicts in New York City. The film is notable for its semi-autobiographical elements, drawing heavily from Scorsese's own experiences growing up in Little Italy. It explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the challenges of maintaining traditional values in a rapidly changing world. The narrative is fragmented, reflecting the protagonist's inner turmoil and confusion.

Visually, Who's That Knocking at My Door showcases Scorsese's early experimentation with cinematic techniques. The use of handheld cameras, jump cuts, and unconventional editing creates a sense of immediacy and realism. These stylistic choices would become hallmarks of his later work. The film also features Harvey Keitel in his first major role, beginning a long and fruitful collaboration between the actor and director. Keitel's performance is raw and compelling, perfectly capturing the vulnerability and angst of his character. Despite its low budget and technical limitations, Who's That Knocking at My Door is a significant debut, offering a glimpse into the themes and stylistic choices that would define Scorsese's illustrious career.

Where to Watch: Unfortunately, it might be a bit tough to find on mainstream streaming services, but keep an eye out on platforms specializing in indie and classic films.

Boxcar Bertha (1972)

Boxcar Bertha represents Scorsese's foray into exploitation cinema, a genre popular in the early 1970s. Produced by Roger Corman, this film tells the story of Bertha, a young woman who becomes involved with a labor union organizer during the Great Depression. While the film is more commercial than Scorsese's earlier work, it still bears his distinctive stylistic touches. The narrative is fast-paced and action-packed, featuring train robberies, shootouts, and romantic entanglements. Barbara Hershey delivers a strong performance as Bertha, portraying her as a strong-willed and independent woman navigating a turbulent era.

Despite its exploitation elements, Boxcar Bertha touches on themes of social injustice and economic inequality. The film depicts the struggles of working-class Americans during the Depression, highlighting the desperation and hardship that led many to a life of crime. Scorsese uses dynamic camerawork and gritty visuals to capture the harsh realities of the time. Although Boxcar Bertha is not considered one of Scorsese's major works, it provided him with valuable experience in directing a larger-scale production and working with a more established cast and crew. It also allowed him to further refine his visual style and storytelling techniques, setting the stage for his later masterpieces. This film is an interesting chapter in Scorsese's filmography, demonstrating his versatility and willingness to experiment with different genres.

Where to Watch: Check out streaming platforms that offer classic Roger Corman productions.

Mean Streets (1973)

Mean Streets is often considered Scorsese's breakthrough film, marking a significant turning point in his career. This gritty and visceral crime drama offers a realistic portrayal of life in Little Italy, exploring the themes of loyalty, guilt, and redemption. The film follows Charlie, a young man torn between his obligations to his friends and his desire to escape his troubled surroundings. Harvey Keitel delivers a powerful performance as Charlie, capturing his internal conflict and moral struggles. Robert De Niro shines as Johnny Boy, a reckless and self-destructive character who embodies the chaos and violence of the streets.

Scorsese's direction in Mean Streets is raw and energetic, reflecting the chaotic environment of the film's setting. The use of handheld cameras, improvisation, and a rock-and-roll soundtrack creates a sense of immediacy and authenticity. The film's dialogue is sharp and realistic, capturing the rhythms and slang of the streets. Mean Streets is also notable for its exploration of religious themes, particularly the concept of guilt and the search for forgiveness. Charlie's internal struggle between his loyalty to his friends and his desire to do what is right adds depth and complexity to the narrative. This film established Scorsese as a major force in American cinema, showcasing his unique vision and his ability to tell compelling stories about the human condition.

Where to Watch: Available on various streaming platforms like HBO Max and Criterion Channel.

Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore (1974)

Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore marks a departure for Scorsese, as it is one of his few films focused primarily on a female protagonist. The film tells the story of Alice Hyatt, a recently widowed woman who embarks on a journey to start a new life with her young son. Ellen Burstyn won an Academy Award for her portrayal of Alice, capturing her strength, vulnerability, and determination. The film explores themes of female empowerment, independence, and the challenges of single motherhood. Scorsese's direction is sensitive and nuanced, allowing the characters to develop naturally and authentically.

While Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore is different from Scorsese's more well-known crime dramas, it still bears his distinctive stylistic touches. The film features dynamic camerawork, realistic dialogue, and a keen eye for detail. Scorsese's ability to capture the nuances of human relationships is evident throughout the film. The supporting cast, including Kris Kristofferson and Harvey Keitel, delivers strong performances, adding depth and complexity to the story. Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore is a significant film in Scorsese's filmography, demonstrating his versatility as a director and his ability to tell compelling stories about a wide range of subjects. It is a poignant and uplifting film that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit.

Where to Watch: Usually available on streaming services like Amazon Prime Video and Hulu.

Taxi Driver (1976)

Taxi Driver is a dark and disturbing masterpiece that solidified Scorsese's reputation as one of the most important directors of his generation. The film tells the story of Travis Bickle, a Vietnam War veteran who works as a taxi driver in New York City. Robert De Niro delivers a haunting performance as Travis, capturing his alienation, loneliness, and descent into madness. The film explores themes of urban decay, violence, and the psychological toll of war. Scorsese's direction is intense and unflinching, creating a sense of claustrophobia and unease.

Taxi Driver is visually striking, with its neon-lit streets and gritty portrayal of New York City. The film's score, composed by Bernard Herrmann, adds to the sense of tension and foreboding. Scorsese's use of camera angles and editing creates a sense of disorientation, reflecting Travis's mental state. The film is also notable for its controversial subject matter, including its depiction of child prostitution and violence. Taxi Driver is a powerful and thought-provoking film that continues to resonate with audiences today. It is a searing indictment of urban alienation and the psychological effects of violence.

Where to Watch: Widely available on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.

New York, New York (1977)

New York, New York is a musical drama that pays homage to the classic Hollywood musicals of the 1940s and 1950s. The film tells the story of a tempestuous romance between a saxophone player and a singer in post-World War II New York City. Robert De Niro and Liza Minnelli deliver captivating performances, capturing the passion and conflict of their characters. The film features lavish musical numbers, vibrant costumes, and a nostalgic atmosphere. Scorsese's direction is stylish and energetic, creating a sense of old-fashioned glamour.

While New York, New York is a departure from Scorsese's more gritty and realistic films, it still bears his distinctive stylistic touches. The film features dynamic camerawork, improvisation, and a keen eye for detail. Scorsese's love for music is evident throughout the film, with its memorable songs and energetic dance sequences. The film explores themes of love, ambition, and the challenges of artistic collaboration. New York, New York is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that celebrates the magic of Hollywood musicals.

Where to Watch: Check streaming services that specialize in classic musicals.

Raging Bull (1980)

Raging Bull is a biographical sports drama that tells the story of boxer Jake LaMotta, whose self-destructive behavior destroys his relationships and career. Robert De Niro delivers a transformative performance as LaMotta, gaining weight and undergoing extensive physical training to accurately portray the boxer. The film explores themes of jealousy, rage, and the destructive nature of toxic masculinity. Scorsese's direction is intense and unflinching, creating a sense of claustrophobia and emotional turmoil.

Raging Bull is visually stunning, with its black-and-white cinematography and dynamic camerawork. The film's boxing sequences are particularly striking, with their slow-motion effects and visceral intensity. Scorsese's use of sound and music adds to the sense of tension and drama. The film is also notable for its unflinching portrayal of LaMotta's flaws and vulnerabilities. Raging Bull is a powerful and disturbing film that explores the dark side of human nature. It is widely regarded as one of Scorsese's greatest achievements.

Where to Watch: Often available on Criterion Channel and other streaming platforms with classic films.

The King of Comedy (1982)

The King of Comedy is a dark satire that tells the story of Rupert Pupkin, an aspiring comedian who stalks his idol, late-night talk show host Jerry Langford, in hopes of getting his big break. Robert De Niro delivers a chilling performance as Pupkin, capturing his delusion, desperation, and lack of self-awareness. The film explores themes of fame, obsession, and the dark side of celebrity culture. Scorsese's direction is sharp and unsettling, creating a sense of unease and discomfort.

The King of Comedy is visually understated, with its realistic portrayal of New York City and its mundane settings. The film's humor is often uncomfortable, reflecting the awkwardness and desperation of its characters. Scorsese's use of improvisation and realistic dialogue adds to the sense of authenticity. The film is also notable for its prescient commentary on the nature of fame and the lengths people will go to achieve it. The King of Comedy is a thought-provoking and disturbing film that remains relevant today.

Where to Watch: Look for it on platforms offering a variety of comedy and drama films.

After Hours (1985)

After Hours is a black comedy that takes place over the course of one night in New York City. The film tells the story of Paul Hackett, an ordinary office worker who becomes embroiled in a series of increasingly bizarre and surreal events. Griffin Dunne delivers a superb performance as Paul, capturing his confusion, frustration, and growing sense of paranoia. The film explores themes of urban alienation, identity, and the absurdity of modern life. Scorsese's direction is frenetic and inventive, creating a sense of disorientation and chaos.

After Hours is visually striking, with its nighttime setting and its use of shadows and light. The film's score, composed by Howard Shore, adds to the sense of tension and unease. Scorsese's use of camera angles and editing creates a sense of disorientation, reflecting Paul's increasingly surreal experiences. The film is also notable for its ensemble cast of eccentric characters, each of whom contributes to the film's sense of absurdity. After Hours is a wild and unpredictable ride that captures the anxieties and absurdities of urban life.

Where to Watch: Check out streaming services that feature indie and cult classic films.

The Color of Money (1986)

The Color of Money is a sports drama that serves as a sequel to the 1961 film The Hustler. The film tells the story of Fast Eddie Felson, a retired pool hustler who takes a young protégé under his wing. Paul Newman reprises his role as Eddie, delivering an Oscar-winning performance. Tom Cruise stars as Vincent Lauria, the cocky and talented young hustler. The film explores themes of mentorship, competition, and the allure of money. Scorsese's direction is stylish and energetic, capturing the excitement and tension of the pool hall.

The Color of Money is visually appealing, with its vibrant colors and dynamic camerawork. The film's pool-playing sequences are particularly exciting, with their fast-paced editing and close-up shots. Scorsese's use of sound and music adds to the sense of drama. The film is also notable for its strong performances from Newman and Cruise, who create a compelling mentor-protégé relationship. The Color of Money is a crowd-pleasing film that combines sports action with character-driven drama.

Where to Watch: Usually available on platforms like Hulu and Amazon Prime Video.

The Last Temptation of Christ (1988)

The Last Temptation of Christ is a controversial religious drama that explores the life of Jesus Christ from a more human perspective. Willem Dafoe delivers a powerful performance as Jesus, capturing his doubts, fears, and temptations. The film explores themes of faith, doubt, and the nature of divinity. Scorsese's direction is bold and provocative, challenging traditional interpretations of the Gospels.

The Last Temptation of Christ is visually striking, with its Middle Eastern locations and its evocative imagery. The film's score, composed by Peter Gabriel, adds to the sense of spirituality and mystery. Scorsese's use of camera angles and editing creates a sense of intimacy, allowing the audience to connect with Jesus on a more personal level. The film is also notable for its controversial depiction of Jesus as a man struggling with his own desires and temptations. The Last Temptation of Christ is a thought-provoking and challenging film that continues to spark debate.

Where to Watch: Check out streaming services that offer a range of religious and historical dramas.

Goodfellas (1990)

Goodfellas is a crime masterpiece that tells the story of Henry Hill, a young man who becomes involved in organized crime. Ray Liotta delivers a compelling performance as Henry, capturing his ambition, greed, and ultimate downfall. Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci deliver unforgettable performances as Henry's fellow gangsters. The film explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the allure of the gangster lifestyle. Scorsese's direction is dynamic and immersive, creating a sense of authenticity and danger.

Goodfellas is visually stunning, with its fast-paced editing, dynamic camerawork, and realistic portrayal of the gangster world. The film's soundtrack is iconic, featuring a mix of classic rock and pop songs. Scorsese's use of voiceover narration adds to the film's sense of intimacy, allowing the audience to understand Henry's perspective. The film is also notable for its unflinching portrayal of violence and its complex characters. Goodfellas is a groundbreaking film that redefined the gangster genre.

Where to Watch: Widely available on streaming platforms like Netflix and HBO Max.

Cape Fear (1991)

Cape Fear is a psychological thriller that tells the story of Max Cady, a recently released convict who seeks revenge on the lawyer who defended him. Robert De Niro delivers a terrifying performance as Cady, capturing his menace, intelligence, and unwavering determination. Nick Nolte stars as Sam Bowden, the lawyer who is targeted by Cady. The film explores themes of revenge, guilt, and the dark side of human nature. Scorsese's direction is suspenseful and intense, creating a sense of dread and paranoia.

Cape Fear is visually striking, with its atmospheric cinematography and its use of shadows and light. The film's score, composed by Elmer Bernstein, adds to the sense of tension and foreboding. Scorsese's use of camera angles and editing creates a sense of unease, reflecting the Bowden family's growing fear. The film is also notable for its strong performances from De Niro and Nolte, who create a compelling cat-and-mouse dynamic. Cape Fear is a gripping and suspenseful thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Where to Watch: Check streaming services that offer thriller and suspense movies.

The Age of Innocence (1993)

The Age of Innocence is a historical romance drama set in New York City in the 1870s. The film tells the story of Newland Archer, a wealthy lawyer who is torn between his duty to his family and his desire for a passionate love affair. Daniel Day-Lewis delivers a nuanced performance as Archer, capturing his internal conflict and his longing for something more. Michelle Pfeiffer and Winona Ryder also star, delivering memorable performances as the women who vie for Archer's affections. The film explores themes of love, duty, and the constraints of social convention. Scorsese's direction is elegant and refined, creating a sense of opulence and restraint.

The Age of Innocence is visually stunning, with its lavish costumes, opulent sets, and romantic cinematography. The film's score, composed by Elmer Bernstein, adds to the sense of romance and nostalgia. Scorsese's use of voiceover narration provides insight into the thoughts and feelings of the characters. The film is also notable for its attention to detail, accurately recreating the social customs and manners of the time. The Age of Innocence is a beautiful and tragic love story that explores the complexities of human relationships.

Where to Watch: Look for it on platforms specializing in classic and historical dramas.

Casino (1995)

Casino is a crime epic that tells the story of Sam