Netflix not only produces action-packed blockbusters and lighthearted comedies but also takes on more ambitious projects. One such project is The Irishman — an epic crime drama by Martin Scorsese featuring a star-studded cast. Despite its three-and-a-half-hour runtime, the film became one of the most-watched titles on the platform, amassing 214 million hours of viewing time.
A Crime Saga of Power, Loyalty, and Regret
The Irishman tells the story of Frank Sheeran, a mob hitman who rises from being a truck driver to a trusted figure in the criminal underworld. The plot spans several decades, following Sheeran’s dark journey through organized crime. He works for powerful mob boss Russell Bufalino and later becomes a friend and bodyguard to union leader Jimmy Hoffa. But success comes at a steep cost, and the film shifts from a gangster epic to a profound reflection on regret, missed opportunities, and loneliness.
New Technology and Unmatched Atmosphere
The film employs groundbreaking de-aging technology, allowing Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci to portray their characters across different stages of life. This innovation enabled Scorsese to unite legendary actors and craft a cohesive, immersive narrative.
The Irishman stands apart from Scorsese's classic gangster films. While Goodfellas and Casino are driven by action and energy, here the focus is on the consequences of choices. The film feels more melancholic than thrilling, leaving behind a heavy emotional aftertaste.
Is It Worth Watching?
Absolutely — especially for fans of crime dramas and Scorsese’s filmmaking. It is best experienced in a single sitting, as its slow pace and gradually building tension are key to the story’s impact. The Irishman is not a tale of gangster showdowns, but a reflection on a life’s end, where the protagonist is left alone with his choices.
