I am both tormented and in admiration of Mr. Scorsese’s films. He makes moving, violent, darkly humorous and cinematically beautiful films. I usually cannot discuss a film by Mr. Scorsese for a while after seeing it. For me, that is significant because I can normally talk about just about anything pretty easily.

Today, Peter and I saw Mr. Scorsese’s latest film, The Departed. It was simply outstanding. To even begin to discuss how incredible this film is, I have to break it down into parts.

Visually, the film is intimate and sweeping, gritty and also sophisticated and slick. The wide shots are beautiful and tell the story in ways that must eat out the heart of film-makers who simply find a pretty shot. The violent scenes draw you in and visually punch you. The average blockbuster makes you feel ‘it’ with an overwhelming thumping Dolby bass that is not necessary in The Departed. The suspension of disbelief is so intense that even though I suspected the end result, I wished for the better part of the film that it would not occur.

The acting is unbelievable. I have never been a big fan of Leonardo DiCaprio. Yes, he is handsome and has a nice body....but in terms of acting, I kind of felt like he coasted in some of his previous films. However, if he does not receive at least an Academy Award nomination for this film then something is wrong. He should win an Oscar for this role, he was amazing.

Jack, Jack, Jack.....what can you say about the master? I do not want to say too much because it could spoil the film, but I cannot think of another actor who could have played this character. Isn’t that the highest of compliments? An actor so astute that he is the character for that moment.  From The Postman Always Rings Twice to The Departed, the only thing that has aged is his skin. Mr. Nicholson’s talent is so immense that his acting appears effortless, like an Olympic athlete.

I highly recommend this film if you are interested in feeling, thinking, being challenged and disturbed. Anyone who just lets life happen to them will not enjoy this film. Cowards should please stay home.