Watch: 19-Minute Video Essay Explores The Influences And Techniques In The Films Of Martin Scorsese

Author and filmmaker Steven Benedict has clearly spent a lot of time studying the work of the incomparable Martin Scorsese. And with good reason. Benedict prefaces “The Journeys of Martin Scorsese” with the following thesis, “Not only does [Scorsese’s] cinema explore the human experience; his films expand cinema’s ability to express that experience.” By that, he rightly means that Scorsese is one of those exceptional artists and filmmakers who not only manages to tap genuinely into the complexities, intricacies, and wildly varied emotions in life, but who does so while also adding depth to his chosen art form. Benedict’s 'Journeys' is a circumspect and studious look at the director’s body of work and influences.

Now, considering “The Journeys of Martin Scorsese” is about, obviously, Scorsese, you might find yourself surprised to quickly recognize shots from a number of non-Scorsese films early into the video. Benedict includes shots from movies by such legendary directors as...