Why 'The Irishman' is 3 Hours Long and Its Impact on Modern Filmmaking

Introduction:

The 2019 film 'The Irishman' has garnered significant attention for its three-hour runtime, questioning the traditional norms of movie lengths and challenging critics and viewers alike. This article explores the reasons behind the film's length, its impact on modern storytelling, and the current trends in filmmaking, all while fitting the structure and standards of Google's SEO expectations.

The Studio's Decision

Director's Vision and Influence:

The Irishman is an epic crime film directed by Martin Scorsese, a director renowned for his innovative storytelling and fearless approach to film length. The three-hour runtime of the film is mostly due to the studio's decision to defer to Scorsese's vision and artistic choices. Scorsese, with over 50 years of experience in the film industry and an established track record of masterpieces, has the clout to justify a longer runtime. Permitting a director of his caliber to create a film of this length aligns with his well-documented dedication to storytelling and character development.

The Historical Context of Film Length

The Evolution of Film Length:

When silent films dominated the industry, the standard length was around 90 minutes due to Hollywood's preferences and audience attention spans. Industry leaders and distributors feared that audiences would lose interest over longer periods. The advent of sound in films (talkies) continued this practice, with 90-minute films remaining the norm. However, by the 21st century, the conventional 90-minute runtime had become less of a constraint.

The Unique Demands of 'The Irishman'

Narrative Complexity and Character Development:

The script for The Irishman demanded a significant runtime to accurately depict the complex narrative and the intricacies of the characters' lives over a long period. Screenwriter Charles Wachsmann collaborated with Scorsese and author Stephen Adapted to craft a story that spans several decades, requiring a runtime that goes beyond the typical 90 minutes. Scorsese himself mentioned the necessity of the runtime to properly tell the story without compromising the audience's engagement.

Despite initial criticisms, many argue that the film's length is justified:

The runtime allows the film to delve deeply into the characters' backgrounds and motivations. The pacing is maintained, ensuring the story doesn't lag. The film's complexity and richness are enhanced by the extended runtime.

The Debate on Excessive Length

Modern Trends and Viewer Expectations:

While some consider the three-hour runtime excessive, the current binge-watching culture has normalized longer content. Streaming platforms offer the flexibility to watch entire series or films over extended periods, diminishing the stigma associated with long runtime films. In the wake of this trend, a three-and-a-half-hour film like The Irishman can be seen as ambitious and properly executed, rather than a flaw.

Browsing through the The Irishman on major streaming platforms, it's interesting to note the high ratings and positive feedback it has received from many viewers who appreciate the depth and attention to detail in the storytelling. The film's runtime seems to have garnered a significant following, demonstrating the potential success of extended content.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the three-hour runtime of The Irishman is a testament to both the director's vision and the changing landscape of modern filmmaking. While traditional norms of film length still hold sway, in an era of binge-watching and genre-blending, extended content can be embraced as a meaningful and artistically valid format. The film's lasting impact is a result of its adherence to Scorsese's artistic vision and the strength of its narrative, making it a noteworthy entry in the world of cinema.