Killers of the Flower Moon: Five essential, underrated works of Martin Scorsese to stream on OTT

Martin Scorsese is back with his 26th full-length feature film, Killers of the Flower Moon, and it doesn't seem that the 80-year-old filmmaker's form has dwindled one bit since the time he started out, almost six decades ago. He is joined by his usual collaborators - actors Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro, cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto, editor Thelma Schoonmaker and music composer Robbie Robertson - and he has yet again occupied himself to take on an epic tale of morality, crime and everything in between. 

Killers of the Flower Moon is out in theatres in India on October 27, 2023, and is set to premiere later on Apple TV+ on an undisclosed date.

So, before the film arrives in cinemas, we thought it might be a good idea to revisit some of Scorsese's lesser-known works and understand the vibrant path that he has traversed over the years. Of course, one's aware of his classics like Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, Goodfellas, The Wolf of Wall Street, etc. but it is possible that some of his other gems have been overlooked by audiences. We have put together a list of five essential and 'underrated' works of Martin Scorsese which, conveniently, are available on OTT to stream. Let's go:

Shutter Island (2010)

Perhaps Scorsese's only "genre" film to date and the master filmmaker brought his absolute best to the table. Shutter Island, based on the novel of the same name by Dennis Lehane, may not have received the love that some of Marty Scorsese's other titles have over time, but the film is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good mystery thriller. To make things more special, Leonardo DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo, Ben Kingsley, Michelle Williams and almost everyone in the ensemble cast deliver a striking performance that is likely to remain with you for a long, long time. Robert Richardson, the legendary cinematographer, too, is at the top of his game here.

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

After Hours (1985)

A Black Comedy might not seem to be particularly up Martin Scorsese's alley but when you look at this film a bit closely, you are sure to find his trademark angst simmering underneath. The story goes that after Paramount Pictures abruptly shelved his passion project, The Last Temptation of the Christ, Scorsese was motivated to focus on a much smaller project. After Hours, the result of this focused retaliation, is based on a script written by Joseph Minion (who, at the time, was still a screenwriting student at Columbia) and stars Griffin Dunne and Rosanna Arquette in lead roles. If you are someone who might enjoy an alluring blend of film noir and screwball comedy, then you must, must check out After Hours. 

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video (Rent)

The Age of Innocence (1993)

Before Daniel Day-Lewis and Marty Scorsese got together for The Gangs of New York, the two worked on another starkly contrasting historical drama. The Age of Innocence is hailed as the director's top-drawer work and even though it is quite 'uncharacteristic' compared to his usual penchants, the film is imbued with a great sense of artistry, poignance and beauty. Michelle Pfeiffer and Winona Ryder, too, star in the film.

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video (Rent)

The Color of Money (1986)

Not many would have imagined Martin Scorsese, Paul Newman and Tom Cruise as part of the same project but when they did come together after all, the product is one heck of a movie. Considered the spiritual sequel to Newman's seminal 1961 film The Hustler, The Color of Money sees the Cool Hand Luke reprising his role as "Fast Eddie" Felson with the young and very effervescent Tom Cruise playing the part of Vincent. Centred around the world of pool and hustling, the film is an exceptional portrait of grit, grief and so much more. Those who do love sports dramas might enjoy this one but be cautioned that this isn't the sappy, good-hearted film that are expecting. Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio plays the role of Carmen in the film. 

Where to watch: YouTube (Buy or Rent)

Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore (1974)

A Martin Scorsese romcom is a different beast altogether but if you are keen to know more about the 'tender' side filmmaker's personality, then Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore must be given a chance. Ellen Burstyn plays Alice, a young widow who encounters love and hardships in her pursuit of becoming a singer. Alfred Lutter, Kris Kristofferson, Harvey Keitel and others, too, are part of the cast. 

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video (Rent)