Scorsese’s latest advertising campaign

Whilst it’s not unusual for big name directors to be asked to create memorable adverts for large companies, earlier this year it seems that legendary director Martin Scorsese went one step further.

In an unprecedented event, the director surprised the film world by releasing a hilarious short film advertising two new Asian casinos with a cast that would cause even the most ardent filmgoer to raise an eyebrow.

Macau

The short film was created by Scorsese to publicise Melco-Crown’s new movie-themed resort and casino in Macau. The province is considered as something of a tax haven and a fun-lovers paradise with an impressive range of venues that host a variety of adult gaming. If you’re thinking of heading there, it’s best to practice your Hollywood-worthy skills online with sites that offer a surprisingly realistic interpretation of the highly glamorous gameplay and some great bonuses too!

Melco-Crown clearly felt that the venture needed a bit of star power and so recruited Scorsese to make the film with an eye-watering estimated $70 million budget. It’s not unusual for directors to be asked to create such adverts as the likes of Wes Anderson have created memorable adverts for Stella Artois and American Express. But the sheer scope of Scorsese’s short film is what will make the biggest impression.

Star power

With a cast featuring the likes of Robert De Niro, Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio, it’s a clear indication of the huge respect that Scorsese has amongst film’s leading stars.

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s De Niro was a staple actor in many of Scorsese’s most iconic films, and with DiCaprio playing one of his most memorable roles in the director’s 2013 hit "The Wolf Of Wall Street," it can be seen that if a company needs to assemble a spectacular cast, then Scorsese is the man to do it.

The actors were reportedly paid $13 million each for the two day shoot which will give some indication as to the amount of money that is generated by this lucrative industry.

Screenplay

Although Scorsese directed the short film, the script was created by The Wolf Of Wall Street writer Terence Winter, and it focuses upon De Niro and DiCaprio who arrive in Macau where they both realise that they are competing for the same upcoming film part.

With a comic touch and a budget that lifts the film out of the realms of the standard advertising campaign, it signifies again the enduring appeal of these actors, so much so that many are calling for the advert to be turned into a full-length feature film!