The highly-anticipated new film by iconic director Martin Scorsese kicked off the New York Film Festival at the Lincoln Center on Friday, reuniting screen legends and introducing new stars alike. Actors including Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Joe Pesci, Harvey Keitel, and Bobby Cannavale walked the red carpet to celebrate the premiere.
The high-budget film, which opens in select theaters November 1st and streams on Netflix on November 27th, blends cutting edge de-aging technology with riveting screen performances. Director Scorsese thanked Netflix for providing the funds to allow such a project. “The only people who backed us were really Netflix,” Scorsese explained on the red carpet. “The technology is amazing.”
“The Irishman” marks the Pacino’s first film with Scorsese, the pairing a long time coming. “Working with Marty [Scorsese] was great. It was sort of what I expected in a way because he is a consummate. He just makes you feel like you’re an actor in a place. He takes care of you,” Pacino said.
Longtime Scorsese collaborator Keitel echoed the sentiment. “He’s been a great friend, and his work has been formative to the country,” Keitel said. “He’s made a difference in people’s lives.”
Actress Stephanie Kurtzuba mused about set highlights, including listening to De Niro and Pesci reminisce about their previous work together. “I was literally constantly in awe,” Kurtzuba said.
Comedian Sebastian Maniscalco expressed his gratitude for the role in the groundbreaking film: “I never thought I would have been a part of it. Every step of the way has really been a surreal moment.”
Co-star Bo Dietl described the overall sentiment on the red carpet best though by simply stating Scorsese’s obvious immense talent. “He’s the greatest director of all time. End of story. There’s Martin Scorsese and then there’s the rest of the directors.”
It’s easy to agree.
“The Irishman” opens in select theaters November 1st, and is available for streaming on Netflix beginning November 27th.
