Netflix has this week confirmed that its new Scorsese crime drama The Irishman, starring Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci, will be premiering in select theatres worldwide from November 1st, 2019. The film will be available via the Netflix streaming service from November 27th, 2019 onwards and is three and a half hours long.
Exclusive Theatrical Release
A list of theatres running the movie has not yet been confirmed by Netflix. The Irishman film will only be available exclusively in theaters for just 26 days, after which it will then be available to Netflix subscribers. This limited theatrical release is part of Netflix’s strategy to qualify for awards season, including the Oscars, which require a film to have a theatrical run.
The Irishman is directed by Martin Scorsese and written by Steven Zaillian, based on the book I Heard You Paint Houses by Charles Brandt. The film has generated significant buzz due to its high-profile cast and the use of groundbreaking de-aging technology to allow the actors to portray their characters across several decades.
Plot and Historical Context
“The Irishman is the story of Frank Sheeran, a mob hitman and World War II vet who develops his skills during his service in Italy. Now an old man, he reflects on the events that defined his career as a hitman, particularly the role he played in the disappearance of labor leader Jimmy Hoffa, his longtime friend, and his involvement with the Bufalino crime family.”
Frank Sheeran, played by Robert De Niro, is a complex character whose life story intertwines with significant historical events and figures. The film delves into the intricacies of organized crime in post-war America, offering a detailed portrayal of the relationships and power dynamics within the mob. Al Pacino’s portrayal of Jimmy Hoffa, the charismatic and controversial labor leader, adds another layer of depth to the narrative. Hoffa’s mysterious disappearance in 1975 remains one of America’s most enduring unsolved mysteries, and The Irishman provides a speculative account of what might have happened.
Joe Pesci’s role as Russell Bufalino, the head of the Bufalino crime family, marks his return to the screen after a long hiatus. His performance has been highly anticipated, given his previous collaborations with Scorsese in iconic films like Goodfellas and Casino.
Technical and Artistic Achievements
One of the most talked-about aspects of The Irishman is its use of de-aging technology. This innovative technique allows the actors to portray their characters at different ages without the need for multiple actors or extensive makeup. The technology has been praised for its ability to maintain the actors’ performances while convincingly altering their appearances.
The film’s length, at three and a half hours, is also notable. Scorsese has defended the runtime, stating that it allows for a more comprehensive exploration of the characters and their stories. The extended length provides the audience with a more immersive experience, delving deeply into the world of organized crime and the personal histories of the characters.
The Irishman has been described as a culmination of Scorsese’s work in the crime genre, bringing together themes and techniques he has developed over his illustrious career. The film’s release is highly anticipated, not only for its star-studded cast and technical achievements but also for its potential impact on the future of film distribution and the ongoing debate about the role of streaming services in the film industry.
Source: Netflix
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