Detailed Summary
The Beginning: Frank Sheeran’s Confession
The film opens with an aging Frank Sheeran (Robert De Niro) reflecting on his life as a hitman for the Bufalino crime family. The narrative unfolds through a series of flashbacks, detailing Frank’s rise in the criminal underworld.
Frank Meets Russell Bufalino
In the 1950s, Frank, a World War II veteran, works as a truck driver. He meets Russell Bufalino (Joe Pesci), the head of the Bufalino crime family, who helps him out of a legal jam. This marks the beginning of Frank’s career in organized crime.
The Rise of Jimmy Hoffa
Russell introduces Frank to Jimmy Hoffa (Al Pacino), the charismatic and powerful leader of the Teamsters union. Hoffa becomes a close friend and mentor to Frank, trusting him with crucial tasks and involving him deeply in union affairs.
The Tensions with the Mafia
As Hoffa’s influence grows, his contentious relationship with the mafia strains. His refusal to play by their rules and his determination to regain control of the Teamsters lead to mounting tensions with mob leaders.
The Road to Betrayal
Frank finds himself torn between his loyalty to Hoffa and his obligations to the Bufalino family. The narrative builds toward the inevitable betrayal, with Frank tasked with eliminating Hoffa due to his increasing unpredictability and threat to the mafia.
The Assassination of Hoffa
In a gripping and emotional sequence, Frank carries out the assassination of Hoffa. This act marks a turning point, leaving Frank with lingering guilt and regret over betraying his friend.
The Lonely Reflection
The film concludes with an elderly Frank reflecting on his life choices. He is alienated from his family and haunted by his past, left to ponder the consequences of his actions.
Movie Ending
The movie ends with Frank Sheeran in a nursing home, reflecting on his life and the choices that led to his isolation. He attempts to reconcile with his estranged daughters, but they remain distant. The film closes on a somber note, with Frank alone, symbolizing the ultimate cost of his life of crime.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, “The Irishman” does not have any post-credits scenes.
Type of Movie
“The Irishman” is a crime drama and historical epic that blends elements of a biopic with a gangster film, known for its deep exploration of themes like loyalty, betrayal, and the passage of time.
Cast
- Robert De Niro as Frank Sheeran
- Al Pacino as Jimmy Hoffa
- Joe Pesci as Russell Bufalino
- Harvey Keitel as Angelo Bruno
- Ray Romano as Bill Bufalino
- Bobby Cannavale as Felix “Skinny Razor” DiTullio
- Anna Paquin as Peggy Sheeran
Film Music and Composer
The film’s score is composed by Robbie Robertson, who uses a mix of period-appropriate songs and original music to enhance the film’s atmosphere and emotional depth.
Filming Locations
- New York City, New York: Many urban scenes were filmed in various locations throughout the city.
- Long Island, New York: Used for suburban settings and Hoffa’s final meeting.
- New Jersey: Several scenes, including road sequences, were shot in New Jersey.
These locations contribute to the film’s authentic portrayal of mid-20th-century America and the East Coast mob scene.
Awards and Nominations
- Academy Awards: Nominated for 10 Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Supporting Actor (Al Pacino and Joe Pesci).
- Golden Globe Awards: Nominated for Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Director, and Best Supporting Actor.
- BAFTA Awards: Nominated for 10 awards, including Best Film, Best Director, and Best Supporting Actor.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- The film uses groundbreaking de-aging technology to depict characters at various ages, allowing actors like De Niro, Pacino, and Pesci to portray their characters across decades.
- Joe Pesci initially turned down the role of Russell Bufalino multiple times before finally agreeing to join the cast.
- The film reunited Martin Scorsese with longtime collaborators Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci after nearly two decades.
Inspirations and References
- Source Material: The film is based on the book “I Heard You Paint Houses” by Charles Brandt, which chronicles Frank Sheeran’s life and his alleged involvement in Hoffa’s disappearance.
- Historical Events: Incorporates real historical figures and events, such as the rise of organized crime and Hoffa’s influence in the labor movement.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
There are no significant alternate endings or deleted scenes known for the film. Scorsese’s vision for the story was fully realized in the final cut.
Book Adaptations and Differences
- Faithful Adaptation: The film closely follows the book’s account of Frank Sheeran’s life and his role in Hoffa’s disappearance.
- Character Emphasis: Some characters and events are condensed or emphasized differently to suit the film’s narrative structure and pacing.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- The Meeting with Hoffa: Frank’s initial introduction to Jimmy Hoffa, setting the stage for their complex relationship.
- The Road Trip: Frank and Russell’s journey to Detroit, filled with tension and foreboding.
- Hoffa’s Assassination: The emotional and climactic scene where Frank kills Hoffa.
Iconic Quotes
- “I heard you paint houses.” – Frank Sheeran (a euphemism for being a hitman)
- “It’s what it is.” – Russell Bufalino
- “When you’re young, they say you can become an astronaut, a movie star. But at some point, you stop dreaming.” – Frank Sheeran
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The film contains numerous nods to Scorsese’s previous gangster films, with stylistic choices and character archetypes reminiscent of “Goodfellas” and “Casino.”
- The de-aging technology used in the film allows for subtle changes in character appearance and mannerisms across different time periods.
Trivia
- The film marks the ninth collaboration between Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro.
- Al Pacino and Joe Pesci, two of the film’s stars, had never worked together in a movie before “The Irishman.”
- The film was in development for over a decade before production began.
Why Watch?
“The Irishman” is a masterful exploration of crime, loyalty, and the consequences of a life lived in the shadows. With stellar performances, particularly from De Niro, Pacino, and Pesci, and Scorsese’s unparalleled direction, it offers a profound reflection on aging and regret.
Director’s Other Movies
- Goodfellas (1990)
- Casino (1995)
- The Departed (2006)
- Shutter Island (2010)
- The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
