Martin Scorsese’s latest film, *The Wager*, had its world premiere at the New York Film Festival and was met with enthusiastic applause, culminating in a standing ovation. The film is inspired by David Grann’s nonfiction book, telling a gripping story of survival and betrayal involving the crew of a British shipwrecked in the 18th century off the South American coast.
The film features Leonardo DiCaprio in the role of Captain David Cheap, with notable performances from Jesse Plemons, Lily Gladstone, and Saoirse Ronan. This marks a second collaboration between Scorsese and Gladstone after their previous work on *Killers of the Flower Moon*.
In a post-screening Q&A, Scorsese discussed the core themes of the film, highlighting how it explores the “fragility of humanity” and the moral dilemmas faced under desperation. He noted the difficulties involved in adapting a historical narrative that resonates with contemporary audiences.
Early critical responses to *The Wager* indicate it could be a strong contender for the 2025 Oscars, with reviewers commending its historical accuracy, the powerful performances from the cast, and Scorsese’s exceptional storytelling and direction.
The film is slated for a theatrical release on November 1 and will be available for streaming on Apple TV+ shortly thereafter. With *The Wager*, Scorsese continues to demonstrate his talent for bringing profound stories to the screen, reinforcing his reputation as one of cinema’s greatest directors.
