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Martin Scorsese, the legendary filmmaker, has enthusiastically recommended the psychological horror film I Saw the TV Glow, expressing his admiration by stating he liked the film “a great deal.” This marks a significant nod from a master of cinema to one of the year’s standout indie films that is already generating considerable buzz.
The venerated 82-year-old director addressed ongoing retirement speculations following delays in two of his upcoming projects, all while he faced criticism from acclaimed actress Nicole Kidman regarding his filmography’s lack of female representation.
An ardent movie lover, Scorsese is constantly engaged with both contemporary and classic films. Recently, during an interview with the Associated Press, he was asked whether he had encountered any noteworthy films lately that caught his eye.
He shared his enthusiasm for one particular recent release, stating: “There was one film I liked a great deal I saw two weeks ago called I Saw the TV Glow.”
Expanding on his impressions, the director known for masterpieces like Goodfellas and Taxi Driver remarked: “It really was emotionally and psychologically powerful and very moving. It builds on you, in a way.”
“I didn’t know who made it,” admitted Scorsese, before attributing the inventive direction to Jane Schoenbrun.
I Saw the TV Glow features standout performances by Justice Smith and Brigette Lundy-Paine as two friends, Owen and Maddy, who become increasingly fixated on a bizarre late-night show dubbed “The Pink Opaque.”
As their obsession deepens, they are forced to confront their own identities and the very nature of their reality.
The film has drawn comparisons to iconic series such as Twin Peaks and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and some critics have observed its resonant themes as a poignant trans allegory.
In a glowing five-star review for The Independent, Clarisse Loughrey noted: “Good allegories, of course, feel infinite. And I Saw the TV Glow speaks so powerfully to the curse of denial that the words ‘there is still time,’ scrubbed in chalk on a suburban street, can have an almost magical effect on the viewer.”
“When I think about that stuff it feels like someone took a shovel and dug out all of my insides,’ Owen says. ‘But I’m still too nervous to open myself up and check.’ Schoenbrun’s film brilliantly encapsulates that intensity and the inherent fear of vulnerability when one can’t see themselves.”
Despite its limited theatrical release in July, the film is now available for rent on Amazon Prime, allowing a wider audience to appreciate its depth.
When asked to recommend a classic film, Scorsese firmly stated: “People should see A Face in the Crowd over and over again. I think that’d be important.”
What are some key elements that make indie films stand out in today’s cinema landscape?
**Interview with Martin Scorsese: Insights on Indie Films and Representation in Cinema**
**Interviewer:** Martin, it’s great to have you here. Your recent recommendation of *I Saw the TV Glow* has certainly generated a lot of excitement. What was it about this film that resonated with you?
**Martin Scorsese:** Thank you for having me! I saw *I Saw the TV Glow* a couple of weeks ago, and I must say, I liked it a great deal. It has a unique style and an almost haunting quality that draws you in. The way it explores psychological themes through its narrative is both fresh and thought-provoking.
**Interviewer:** That’s intriguing! You’ve been a guiding figure in the film industry for decades. How does it feel to see emerging indie films making a mark, especially with your endorsement?
**Martin Scorsese:** It’s wonderful to witness. Independent filmmakers often take risks that larger studios shy away from, and that’s where you find some of the most innovative storytelling. I think it’s important that we recognize and support these voices; they can provide new perspectives that enrich the cinematic landscape.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of perspectives, there have been recent discussions regarding gender representation in your films, notably brought up by Nicole Kidman. How do you respond to that critique?
**Martin Scorsese:** It’s a valid point. The film industry has historically marginalized female voices, and it’s something I’m aware of. I strive to evolve in my storytelling and casting choices, and I believe it’s crucial to be accountable and to support the next generation of filmmakers, regardless of gender.
**Interviewer:** Balancing tradition and evolution must be a challenge, especially with ongoing speculation about your retirement. What keeps you motivated to continue creating?
**Martin Scorsese:** The love of film is what drives me. There’s always something new to learn and explore in cinema, whether it’s a story that hasn’t been told or a different method of storytelling. I’m fortunate to still have the opportunity to share these experiences with audiences.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Martin. It’s inspiring to hear your commitment to both innovation and representation in filmmaking.
**Martin Scorsese:** Thank you! It’s been a pleasure discussing these important topics. Keep an eye out for the emerging voices—they’re the future of film.