Hope and Violence: The Cinematic Worlds of Spielberg and Scorsese
Steven Spielberg and Martin Scorsese have long been recognised as pivotal figures in American cinema, each significantly influencing the art of filmmaking. While both are undeniably masters of their craft, their cinematic worlds often present a stark contrast. Scorsese frequently immerses viewers in the harsh realities of violence and moral ambiguity, whereas Spielberg often elevates them to realms of wonder and unwavering hope. In exploring this compelling dichotomy, we will examine the distinct roles that violence and hope play in shaping their respective filmographies.
Scorsese: An Exploration of Violence
Martin Scorsese's films are often characterised by their unflinching portrayal of violence. From the brutal gang warfare depicted in Gangs of New York to the visceral intensity of Raging Bull, Scorsese does not shy away from illustrating the darker aspects of human nature. In his films, violence is not merely a plot device; it serves as a pervasive force that shapes characters, drives narratives, and reflects the often-harsh realities of the worlds he presents. Scorsese seems to suggest that violence, while impactful, offers no lasting solutions.
“It seems to me that any sensible person must see that violence does not change the world and if it does, then only temporarily.”
For example, in Goodfellas, a quintessential Scorsese film, violence is intrinsically linked to the gangster lifestyle. It functions as a tool for maintaining power, settling disputes, and enforcing loyalty. However, the film's memorable scenes of brutality ultimately underscore the moral decay and the futility of the characters' pursuit of wealth and status. Their violent actions lead only to paranoia, betrayal, and ultimately, destruction.
In Gangs of New York, the opening battle scene immediately establishes the brutal reality of the Five Points district. The chaotic clash between the Anglo-Protestant Confederation of American Natives, led by William "Bill the Butcher" Cutting, and the Irish Catholic immigrant Dead Rabbits, led by "Priest" Vallon, depicted with unflinching realism, showcases the tribal nature of the conflict and the constant struggle for survival in this lawless environment. The violence is not glorified; instead, it is presented as a grim and dehumanising aspect of everyday life. The scene underscores the cyclical nature of violence, as each generation inherits the hatred and animosity of the previous one, perpetuating a cycle of destruction that achieves nothing of lasting value.
Similarly, in Taxi Driver, Travis Bickle's descent into violence reflects his alienation and disillusionment with a corrupt and decaying society. While his actions may initially appear to be a response to the injustice he perceives, they ultimately lead to further chaos and do not offer any real resolution to the underlying problems. Scorsese uses violence to expose the raw realities of urban life and the psychological impact it has on individuals, suggesting that it is a symptom of a deeper societal malaise rather than a cure.
Scorsese's use of violence often serves a thematic purpose, allowing him to explore themes such as guilt, redemption, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. It reflects a world where morality is often compromised and where the distinction between right and wrong becomes blurred. In his films, violence is rarely portrayed as a means to lasting change or true justice.
Spielberg: A Celebration of Hope
In contrast, Steven Spielberg's films are deeply infused with the hope that he so readily expresses in his own life. This inherent hopefulness shines through in his cinematic work. Even when faced with adversity, his characters frequently demonstrate the strength to overcome challenges and achieve seemingly impossible goals.
“I’ve always been very hopeful which I guess isn’t strange coming from me. I don’t want to call myself an optimist. I want to say that I’ve always been full of hope. I’ve never lost that. I have a lot of hope for this country and for the entire world.”
From the heartwarming story of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial to the inspiring narrative of Schindler's List, Spielberg's films often celebrate the resilience of the human spirit and the power of belief.
E.T. provides a clear example of Spielberg's hopeful vision. Despite the fear and prejudice surrounding the alien visitor, Elliott and his siblings embrace E.T. with compassion, forming a bond that transcends language and species. The film's message of understanding and acceptance resonates deeply, offering a hopeful vision of a world where differences can be overcome. Even in a film as harrowing as Schindler's List, Spielberg identifies moments of hope amidst the horrors of the Holocaust. Oskar Schindler's transformation from a profiteer to a saviour demonstrates the capacity for good that can exist even in the darkest of times. The film's conclusion, with the surviving Schindlerjuden placing stones on Schindler's grave, stands as a testament to the enduring power of gratitude and remembrance.
In Minority Report, the theme of hope is more nuanced and arguably harder-won. While the PreCrime system initially appears to offer a utopian vision of a society free from murder, the film gradually reveals its inherent flaws and potential for abuse. John Anderton's journey is one of desperate struggle against a system determined to condemn him for a crime he has not yet committed.
The glimmer of hope in Minority Report lies in the possibility of free will and the potential to alter one's destiny. Anderton's fight to prove his innocence, and ultimately expose the corruption within PreCrime, suggests that even in a seemingly deterministic world, individuals retain the agency to shape their own futures. The film's conclusion, with the dismantling of PreCrime, offers a cautious optimism – a belief that society can learn from its mistakes and strive for a more just and equitable future, even if the path towards that future is fraught with difficulty. The hope resides not in a perfect system, but in the enduring human capacity for critical thought, resistance, and the pursuit of justice.
Spielberg's hope is not presented as naive or simplistic. Instead, it is often hard-earned, emerging from struggle and sacrifice. It represents a conscious choice to believe in the possibility of a better future, even when confronted with overwhelming odds.
Contrasting Visions, Shared Humanity
While the films of Scorsese and Spielberg may appear to be completely opposite, they both offer valuable insights into the human condition. Scorsese's unflinching portrayal of violence serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the dangers of unchecked aggression and moral decay. Spielberg's hopeful vision inspires us to believe in the power of compassion, resilience, and the potential for a brighter future.
Ultimately, these two cinematic giants may not be so different. Both Scorsese and Spielberg are storytellers who utilise their craft to explore the complexities of human experience. One illuminates the darkness, while the other shines a light on the hope that remains, even in the deepest shadows. Together, they offer a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the world we inhabit.
Explore the world of film with Global Trekker's documentaries, The Moviemakers, featuring Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg. Plus, catch two of their masterpieces, Gangs of New York and Minority Report, this month. Check your local listings on the Where to Watch page for details.
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