The Big Picture The 25 Best Movies of the Century: No. 11 - 'The Wolf of Wall Street’
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Sep 24, 2025 The hosts dive into Martin Scorsese's 'The Wolf of Wall Street,' exploring its chaotic celebration of excess and morality. They debate whether the film glorifies its distorted characters or critiques them, while also highlighting Leonardo DiCaprio’s standout performance. The discussion covers its unique visual style, impactful soundtrack, and connection to American ambition. They examine the film's complex portrayal of relationships and societal commentary, questioning its place among Scorsese's late masterpieces and its relevance in post-2008 America.
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Montage, Needle Drops, And Tone
- The Wolf of Wall Street relies heavily on montage and over 30 needle-drops to drive tone and pace.
- The soundtrack choices create a lascivious and haunted atmosphere that underscores Belfort's descent.
Blues As Descent Into Hell
- Scorsese uses blues needle-drops to portray scenes as quasi-religious or infernal tableaux.
- These musical sequences function as visual meditations where Belfort contemplates his creation and guilt.
Money As False Remedy
- The film critiques American longing: wealth is presented as a false solution to pain and insecurity.
- Scorsese explores unresolved longing instead of offering origin-story excuses for behavior.
