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Narrative & Subtext

Walking the tightrope when depicting morally compromised characters in a way that doesn't condone their actions while also keeping them interesting as protagonists.

#MoralAmbiguity
1 director5 episodesin Character Psychology
Raised byJulio

Martin Scorsese

5 episodes touching this theme
  • Strongly explored
    King of Comedy

    · raised by Julio

    "You praise how the film never excuses the kidnapping but still makes Rupert fascinating to watch."

    Cross-refTaxi DriverBreaking BadThe Godfather
  • Strongly explored
    Goodfellas

    · raised by Julio

    "You enjoy how the film makes their world seductive without pretending they’re good people."

    Cross-refTaxi DriverThe GodfatherBreaking Bad
  • Strongly explored
    The Aviator

    · raised by Julio

    "You like that the film doesn’t excuse his cruelty or neglect but still makes him compelling."

    Cross-refThe GodfatherBreaking BadTaxi Driver
  • Strongly explored
    The Irishman

    · raised by Julio

    "You respect that the film never glamorises his choices, even while giving him full narrative focus."

    Cross-refThe GodfatherBreaking BadTaxi Driver
  • Strongly explored
    Killers of the Flower Moon

    · raised by Julio

    "You wrestle with how the film centres Ernest and Hale while clearly condemning what they’re doing."

    Cross-refThe GodfatherBreaking Bad