Martin Scorsese | Biography, Films, Taxi Driver, & Facts | Britannica

Martin Scorsese Biography

Martin Scorsese (born November 17, 1942, Queens, New York, U.S.) is an American filmmaker celebrated for his intense and often violent portrayals of American culture. His career since the 1970s has produced an ambitious and influential body of work, making him one of the most important directors of the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

Notable Films

Artistic Significance

Scorsese's films blend a sharp cynicism about modern culture with a profound love for cinema itself. His work reflects a deep engagement with the challenges and transformations of contemporary society.

Film Preservation Advocacy

In a 2018 essay for the Encyclopædia Britannica Anniversary Edition: 250 Years of Excellence, Scorsese described his ongoing dedication to film preservation since the 1970s, stating, “[i]n the future the memory of the actual film image will have to be preserved as carefully and lovingly as an ancient artifact at the Met.”

Summary

Martin Scorsese's lasting impact as a filmmaker stems from his powerful storytelling and passionate commitment to preserving cinema history for future generations.

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Britannica Britannica — 2025-11-04