I remember watching Martin Scorsese’s The Departed when it was released in 2006. A film I just had to see because of Scorsese, but also thanks to the triple A-list acting talents of Leonardo DiCaprio, Mark Wahlberg and Matt Damon.
It’s been more than 10 years since then, and Scorsese’s highly rated crime/thriller about an undercover cop and a mole in the police service who are trying to identify each other, while infiltrating an Irish gang in South Boston remains a notable film.
As good as it is, I’m not sure if The Departed is the kind of movie that loses a portion of its shine over time. Or, could it be that my being caught up in ‘Leo Mania‘ in 2006 made me rate it a little more highly than it may have deserved, because I did rate it VERY highly indeed? It could also just be that this isn’t the first time I’ve seen the film; therefore, chances are, I won’t feel it’s as great as it was at first viewing. Either way, today I’d say that the first half of the movie is good, but it’s really in the second act that things get most thrilling.
Can I continue to call The Departed my favourite Scorsese movie? Perhaps not. Even though I still think it’s one of his best. And besides the example of what a good crime/thriller can look like, I’ll also remember The Departed for being the first time I heard a croissant referred to as ‘a French doughnut.’
For anyone who’s never watched The Departed, part of what makes the movie notable, besides the great story and cast is it doesn’t end the way you expect. Thank goodness that ten-plus years was enough for me to forget the ending, almost entirely. I mean, I did remember the rat on the window sill, but that’s it.
Watch it because it’s good and it is definitely a classic after all.
Happy Film Loving,
G
The Movie My Life 
My hubby who grew up in Boston got me to watch this, which I was already a fan of the cast and Scorsese so he didn’t have to convince me much. I really liked and thought it was smartly done. The ending….. I so did not see that coming. I know I yelled lol. For me, it’s a really good movie, but one I don’t think I can watch over and over again. I agree with you, I don’t think you will get the same feeling as when you see it for the first time.
I also yelled at the ending (in the elevator). It just isn’t what my heart wanted! 😁
So true!
It was inspired by a Hong Kong movie, the internal affairs I think.But as you said, this is still a classic, keeps guessing till end what is next.
Of course, Infernal Affairs. I forgot about that. I should probably trying watching that one of these days.
Love the plot, and how things got escalated.
Almost forgot, the ‘triangle of interest’ among the three characters is just great! 🙂
I like the phrase, the ‘triangle of interest’.
I agree about the way the story builds until the final moments. In fact, I’m a little jealous of anyone who is yet to watch it. 🤓
Freaky story to share – I linked here from your Movies Love Story post. I commented that I would call a movie theater rat “Leo” and The Departed coincidentally happened to be one of the two “recommended posts” from your site! I must have glanced the pic of Leo first, subconsciously I think.
Freaky indeed. Especially if you hadn’t even glanced at the photo of Leo at all. Is Leo the kind of name you would give a pet rat if you had one? All is possible. 🤓
Unfortunately, the only name I have for a rat is Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa! And other expletives.
Lol! Yes I Would undoubtedly name him Leo after this conversation😁 Although I would prefer a cat. And I doubt they’d get along. Do you have pets?
Presently, I have zero pets. I too would lean towards cats if I could have one. I honestly love big cats the most. However, they really should stay roaming free at a reasonably safe distance.
You’re right, cats and rodents generally don’t get along. So I thought I’d double check if the same rule applies for a big rodent like a rabbit. Google’s answer made me giggle: 😁
“Pet cats and pet rabbits can co-exist in the home if properly introduced. However, it is important to always remember that cats are predators and rabbits are prey. If your cat exhibits predatory behaviour, introducing a rabbit will put the rabbit in danger.”
Lol – That Google answer.
Big cats are majestic, aren’t they? I fantasize the domesticated case of Rajah from Aladdin. But would never pursue it. Sadly, some of my countrymen in particular Actually purchase and domesticate them. Did you know there are more Tigers in the state of Texas than all of the wild combined. Sad..
A childhood neighbor down the street had a giant pet rabbit. I saw it outside one day and thought I had fallen into Wonderland (And shrunken). It was as big as a Labrador! It seemed.
Am becoming more fond of animals as an adult. Have always liked them, but did not always relate to them like I am starting to now.
-EF🙂
The tiger fact about Texas is very unfortunate indeed. I can’t remember where I heard it but it was a very unpleasant surprise when I became aware.
Wow! A rabbit that huge would be quite something. The question is, were you excited with the idea of being in Wonderland or were you terrified? 😁
I think I’ll always be averse to being close to some animals, even if it’s a safe setting/distance. However, I do generally want the best for them.
Oh I was terrified of everything as a child. Wonderland, school, animals. My growing love of animals happened recently. My family and friends do not like animals whatsoever. So I totally sympathize with your aversion.
That’s generally quite understandable. I’m sure it’s healthy for a child to have a strong sense of self-preservation – and be afraid of most things they don’t understand. It’s another version of ‘stranger danger.’ 🤓