When discussing renowned director Martin Scorsese, television may not immediately come to mind. Known predominantly for his iconic films such as Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, and Goodfellas, Scorsese has also made noteworthy contributions to the world of television that deserve attention. While his cinematic achievements are extraordinary, his journey into the realm of TV showcases another facet of his creative genius.
Typically, one might expect Scorsese to take interest in acclaimed mob dramas like The Sopranos or Peaky Blinders. Surprisingly, it was not a mob narrative that inspired his foray into television, but rather a beloved sitcom that effectively shifted his focus toward this new medium. This led to a remarkable blend of his unique directing style with the narratives of the small screen.
Scorsese’s Television Journey Began with Curb Your Enthusiasm
An Unexpected Inspiration
While The Sopranos is often viewed as a cornerstone of television, Scorsese admits to watching it only a handful of times, finding it difficult to connect with its themes. His revelation came through watching Larry David’s acclaimed comedy, Curb Your Enthusiasm. In a conversation with The Independent, he expressed:
Basically, I started watching Curb Your Enthusiasm, that is the key one, that is when I realised you could do something on television.
This pivotal moment marked the beginning of Scorsese’s relationship with television, leading him to direct episodes of HBO’s critically acclaimed series Boardwalk Empire, featuring Steve Buscemi as the morally compromised treasurer of Atlantic City during the Prohibition era. Scorsese reflected on how HBO’s creative freedom drew him back to TV, stating:
What’s happening the past nine to 10 years, particularly at HBO, is what we had hoped for in the mid-’60s with films being made for television at first. We’d hoped there would be this kind of freedom and also the ability to create another world and create long-form characters and story.
Exploring Scorsese’s Evolving Connection with Television
Return to the Small Screen
In 2016, Scorsese returned to television with the series Vinyl, co-created with Terence Winter and rock icon Mick Jagger. Set in the vibrant music scene of 1970s New York, the show starred Bobby Cannavale as a record producer navigating the chaotic landscape of the era. Despite initial promises of a second season, HBO ultimately canceled the series, much to Scorsese’s disappointment.
Scorsese continued his exploration of television narratives with a 2024 project titled Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints, airing on FoxNation. This series, focusing on the lives of various saints, is set to entertain audiences until at least May 2025.
A Cameo in Curb Your Enthusiasm
Playing Himself on the Show
Interestingly, Scorsese himself made a cameo appearance in Curb Your Enthusiasm, specifically in Season 3, Episode 6, entitled “The Special Section.”In this episode, Larry David’s character auditions for a gangster role in a movie directed by Scorsese. Their interaction showcases a humorous tussle, particularly when Larry critiques Scorsese’s direction—a reflection of their contrasting styles.
Adding to the comedic mischief, Larry misses his mother’s funeral due to shooting the film in New York, leading to a poignant yet comedic twist that highlights the absurdities of life, a hallmark of Curb Your Enthusiasm.
For more insights into Scorsese’s experiences and contributions to television, refer to additional sources.