In 2015, Martin Scorsese created a 16-minute short film titled “The Audition”, which brings together an impressive ensemble of talent, including Robert De Niro, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Brad Pitt. The film is a humorous depiction of the rivalry between DiCaprio and De Niro as they compete for a role in Scorsese’s next movie. Despite its short length, the film has an impressive budget of $70 million, making it one of the most expensive shorts ever made.
The film’s uniqueness lies in its clever combination of art and advertising. Commissioned by Melco Crown Entertainment to promote the opening of the Studio City casino in Macau, “The Audition” humorously pokes fun at the celebrity status of its stars. Not only do we see them playing themselves, but they also mock their own personas, making light of their egos and trivialities. The film’s narrative takes the audience on a tour of the resort’s amenities, showcasing the lavish luxury that awaits customers with a fat wallet.
A Still From Martin Scorsese’s short film titled The Audition (Via IMDB)
Throughout the film, Scorsese cleverly weaves in subtle product placement, showcasing the resorts without breaking the narrative. Even the script is written in a way that fits the theme, with characters’ conversations about their upcoming movie and their rivalries. It’s this blend of advertising and narrative filmmaking that makes “The Audition” shine.
The star power is undeniable, with even the most minor role players, like Brad Pitt, making an appearance. De Niro and DiCaprio deliver standout performances, poking fun at each other’s eccentricities and even cracking jokes at their own expense. The resulting film is a light-hearted, harmless, and amusing look at the absurdity of celebrity life.
Although “The Audition” is not currently streaming, it’s available to watch on YouTube. For fans of Scorsese and his actors, it’s a delightful treat that showcases their creativity and humor, making it an enjoyable watch for audiences.
