In The Irishman, violence is depicted not as an exhilarating spectacle but as an inevitable consequence of a life steeped in crime. Unlike previous Scorsese films that might revel in the spectacle of violence, this film presents it as a cold and dispassionate reality. The killings are numerous and brutal—ranging from shootings to strangulations—yet...
From a historical perspective, The Irishman situated itself within significant events such as labor movements and political corruption during the mid-20th century. The film portrays real-life figures like Jimmy Hoffa (Al Pacino) against this backdrop, weaving together personal narratives with historical realities. This blending enhances our...
The film's color palette plays a crucial role in establishing its tone. At the start of Frank Sheeran's story, the colors are much brighter than in the muted last scenes. This was done first to replicate the period and represent Frank's initial naivety and willingness to become a part of organized crime. There are several instances throughout the...
The accents and diction employed by the characters serve as critical creative choices that ground the film in its cultural context. Scorsese utilizes regional dialects to enhance authenticity; for example, De Niro's portrayal of Sheeran features a Midwestern accent that aligns with his character's background. These vocal choices not only contribute...
A sketch by The Irishman costume designers Sandy Powell and Christopher PetersonCourtesy of Netflix
Costuming in The Irishman is meticulously crafted to reflect the era and social status of its characters. The clothing choices—suits for men that vary from sharp to
ill-fitting—mirror their personalities and societal roles within organized crime. For instance, Frank Sheeran's attire transitions from practical work clothes such as leather jackets and newsboy caps that a truck driver teamster might wear, to tailored suits and bold jewelry as he rises through the ranks of the mob. This evolution signifies his increasing entrenchment in a world defined by power dynamics and moral ambiguity. You will notice that the character Russel Buffalino often wears bold ties that signify authority within the mob hierarchy. His costuming choices emphasize his position while showcasing shifts in fashion trends throughout the decades portrayed in the film.
The younger characters' clothes will always seem to slim down and become skinnier and neater as they age into the 60s.
Tony Pro's (Stephen Graham) memorable outfit—a Hawaiian shirt paired with flashy loafers—contrasts sharply with Hoffa's more traditional appearance during critical negotiations. This sartorial choice not only highlights Pro's brash personality but also serves as a visual representation of the conflict between different values within organized crime.
The score of The Irishman, composed by Robbie Robertson, complements its narrative depth through subtlety rather than overt dramatization. The music often underscores moments of reflection or tension without overshadowing the dialogue or action. It enhances emotional resonance during pivotal scenes—such as Sheeran's moments of introspection—allowing viewers to feel the weight of his regrets without explicit exposition. Additionally, the use of music from different eras serves to anchor viewers in time while also evoking nostalgia for lost opportunities and relationships. This thematic layering adds another dimension to Scorsese's exploration of memory and legacy throughout the film.
The Irishman stands as a poignant meditation on violence, loyalty, and regret within organized crime's framework. Through its deliberate portrayal of violence as an isolating force, muted color palette reflecting moral decay, historically grounded costuming choices that signify character arcs over time, authentic accents enhancing character depth, and an evocative score that underscores emotional weight—all these elements combine to craft a narrative that transcends typical gangster tropes. Instead of glorifying criminality or romanticizing mob life, The Irishman invites viewers to reflect on its consequences—a fitting exploration for a director contemplating his storied career amid themes of legacy and mortality. By weaving together personal stories with historical realities through meticulous attention to detail across various cinematic elements Scorsese delivers not just a film but an introspective journey into the heart of darkness that defines human existence within organized crime. The Irishman challenges audiences to grapple with complex moral questions surrounding loyalty versus betrayal while highlighting how choices made within this world reverberate through time—not only for those who make them but also for those left behind. Through this lens, Scorsese crafts an essential commentary on life itself—a reflection on how our decisions shape our legacies long after we are gone.
