Jacob Ant
Acclaimed filmmaker Martin Scorsese recently expressed his admiration for the unique cinematic pairing embodied in “Barbenheimer,” in a conversation with the Hindustan Times. Though he has yet to see either Barbie or Oppenheimer, Scorsese acknowledged the distinctive and compelling blend of the two films that captured audiences’ attention during the summer season.
Referring to the phenomena as a “perfect storm” (albeit reluctantly), Scorsese celebrated the timing of their release and the public’s decision to experience these films in theaters, emphasizing the importance of the theatrical experience.
He commended the remarkable contrast between the films – one, a delightful spectacle filled with vibrant colors and entertainment value, and the other, a powerful narrative exploring themes of existential danger and the looming collapse of civilization.
Furthermore, Scorsese spoke in defense of his upcoming AppleTV+ release, Killers of the Flower Moon, which boasts an extensive runtime of three hours and 26 minutes. Despite its length, he encouraged viewers to watch the film on the big screen for a fully immersive experience, citing that audiences commonly commit to long periods of watching TV or attending theatrical plays without complaint. He urged for the same level of commitment and respect to be extended to cinema.
Starring a robust cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Lily Gladstone, Robert De Niro, Brendan Fraser, and Jesse Plemons, Killers of the Flower Moon is slated for release in theaters on October 20th.
Scorsese ended by highlighting the prospect of a rejuvenated and diverse film industry, different from the trends observed over the past two decades, but in alignment with the ongoing exceptional work in independent cinema.
