Eric Bertelsen

"The Irishman" is a masterpiece of directing by Martin Scorsese, and brought to life by Oscar-worthy performances by Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci. While never rationalizing the motives of organized crime over a thirty-year period, the movie brings forth the themes of regret and sorrow in a world of horrific violence and moral depravity. Even though this epic poem about man's inhumanity to man, honor among thieves, and utmost betrayal between the best of friends lasts three-and-half hours, one barely notices it! This film transcends the Mafia-genre itself, and, instead, becomes a witness to the depths to which we all can sink if we allow our lives to be dictated by the most wretched vices of all: greed; and, by proxy, soulessness.