Ari Aster Celebrates Scorsese’s Legacy at New York Film Festival
During the recent New York Film Festival, filmmaker Ari Aster shared his reflections on the work of legendary director Martin Scorsese, describing it as a source of comfort and inspiration for those creating films that might not receive universal acclaim. Aster’s comments came during a roundtable discussion focused on Rebecca Miller‘s documentary titled *Mr. Scorsese*, which premiered at the festival.
Aster acknowledged the challenge of making divisive films, highlighting how Scorsese’s journey demonstrates that even celebrated directors face mixed reactions. He pointed out that films like *Taxi Driver* and *Raging Bull* were not initially embraced by audiences, emphasizing the importance of artistic integrity over commercial success. “As somebody who has made a couple films that were divisive, it’s helpful to remember, oh, right, *The King of Comedy* wasn’t well received,” Aster noted.
The five-part documentary from Apple TV+ features over 20 hours of candid conversation between Miller and Scorsese, delving into his formative works and the creative processes behind them. Aster spoke of the soothing effect the documentary had on him, particularly in light of his own experiences with his films *Hereditary* and *Midsommar*, which were met with more positive responses compared to his later works, *Beau is Afraid* and *Eddington*.
Aster Reflects on Artistic Freedom
Aster expressed admiration for the way Scorsese’s films often challenge audiences, describing them as “lightning bolts.” He remarked, “There’s nothing calculated about his films. And that’s the thing that was instructive to me growing up.” This sentiment underscored Aster’s belief in the value of creating art that may not always cater to mainstream tastes.
He elaborated on the emotional toll of releasing films, stating, “It’s heartbreaking to release a film. It’s heartbreaking when it goes well, because it’s not yours anymore. There’s something very alienating about it. It’s very lonely.” Aster’s candid reflections resonate with many filmmakers who grapple with audience expectations and critical reception.
Miller, who directed *Mr. Scorsese*, noted that the documentary’s foundation lies in the extensive conversations she had with Scorsese over five years. “Ultimately, we spoke for about 20 hours,” she explained. By creating an intimate setting, Miller was able to capture Scorsese’s genuine thoughts and feelings about his body of work.
Miller’s Insight on Scorsese’s Approach
Miller highlighted Scorsese’s commitment to honesty and innovation in filmmaking. “He really wanted to till new earth, I guess, and that was always the backbone,” she said. This approach is evident in the documentary, which intertwines archival footage with their discussions, providing a rich context for Scorsese’s artistic journey.
The panel at the New York Film Festival included not only Aster and Miller but also actor Michael Imperioli and Margaret Bodde, executive director of The Film Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to film preservation that Scorsese founded in 1990. Their collective insights underscored the impact of Scorsese’s work on both emerging and established filmmakers.
As *Mr. Scorsese* continues to resonate with audiences, it serves as a reminder of the complexities of artistic expression and the importance of embracing creative risks. Aster’s reflections at the festival affirm that even in an industry marked by division, there remains a shared appreciation for the transformative power of cinema.
