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Renowned director Martin Scorsese is well-known for his gritty and violent narratives that have made a significant impact on cinema. His filmography includes classics such as Mean Streets (1973), Taxi Driver (1976), Raging Bull (1980), and Goodfellas (1990). Each of these films has garnered critical acclaim, earning numerous awards and solidifying Scorsese’s reputation as a master filmmaker. However, this recognition has sometimes pigeonholed him into the tough-guy genre. In a bid to diversify his artistic expression, he took a bold step in adapting a romantic drama from the 1920s, The Age of Innocence. With Netflix making this film available for streaming since April 1, it presents an opportunity for audiences to explore this lesser-known aspect of his career.
Initially released on September 17, 1993, The Age of Innocence offers a unique narrative experience. The film features an impressive cast including Daniel Day-Lewis, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Winona Ryder, whose performances are intricately woven into the story. Day-Lewis plays Newland Archer, a young lawyer poised to marry Ryder’s character, May Welland, who embodies the ideals of femininity in 1920s society — delicate, attractive, and orderly.
The plot takes a turn with the arrival of Ellen Olenska, May’s cousin, who challenges societal norms. Ellen’s unorthodox behavior starkly contrasts with the expectations imposed on women of that era. As Newland is assigned to oversee Ellen’s divorce from her estranged husband, a Polish nobleman, a compelling love triangle emerges, forming the emotional core of the film. This shift in narrative focus marks a significant departure from Scorsese’s typical storytelling style.
The Age of Innocence Is a Must-See Martin Scorsese Film
The film garnered nominations from prestigious institutions such as the Academy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, and British Academy Film Awards, earning accolades for Best Costume and Best Supporting Actress, among others. However, what distinguishes The Age of Innocence is its exploration of emotional distance and the lack of overt intimacy between characters. This deliberate choice enhances the delicate tension that defines the roaring 20s, while also allowing for powerful performances to shine.
Day-Lewis portrays the emotionally restrained Newland, whose reawakened passion arises with Ellen’s entry into his life. A poignant moment occurs when Newland’s tears surface as he processes Ellen’s departure, encapsulating his internal struggle. Meanwhile, Ellen, portrayed by Pfeiffer, is a complex character, embodying strength and vulnerability, skillfully balancing the dynamics in a world filled with societal constraints.
Winona Ryder’s portrayal of May is also noteworthy. Best recognized for her roles in Beetlejuice and Stranger Things, here she plays the role of a bride eager to fit into her environment, yet keenly observant of the subtleties around her. Her innocence becomes an intriguing aspect of the narrative, leading to unexpected revelations about her character by the film’s conclusion. Scorsese’s directorial approach effectively highlights her journey, using camera angles to enhance the emotional weight of her experiences.
Netflix Agreed With Critics
The film underscores that not every affair need be physical, with The Age of Innocence showcasing that emotional entanglements can be equally profound and heart-wrenching. The film’s bittersweet ending contrasts sharply with what one might expect from Scorsese, known primarily for his crime dramas, yet critics noted that this marked a refreshing shift in his artistic direction.
Esteemed film critic Roger Ebert acknowledged this work as one of Scorsese’s finest, while Desson Howe of the Washington Post recognized it as a testament to Scorsese’s versatility as a filmmaker, noting the “alert, thinking presence behind the camera.” Ultimately, the film succeeds in capturing the complexities of unrequited love.
This brief yet impactful phase in Scorsese’s illustrious career illustrates his desire to transcend genre boundaries. Just two years after The Age of Innocence, he would return to the crime genre with Casino, yet this romantic drama serves as a significant testament to his artistic range. Beyond being a showcase of his directorial prowess, the film presents timeless themes of love, desire, and loss. Netflix’s decision to stream The Age of Innocence invites a new generation to engage with this poignant narrative. The film is available for viewing on Netflix.
Source
movieweb.com