Dylan Names Scorsese's Most Controversial Film as His Top Pick
The legendary folk icon surprised audiences when he revealed which Martin Scorsese movie stands as his personal favorite, choosing the director's most divisive and protest-sparking work.
The artistic bond between filmmaker Martin Scorsese and folk legend Bob Dylan represents one of cinema's most fascinating collaborations. Scorsese's deep appreciation for music runs through his entire career - from selecting perfect soundtrack moments like 'Be My Baby' in Mean Streets to creating full-length tributes to musical legends.
The director has returned to Dylan's story multiple times, crafting the 2005 documentary No Direction Home: Bob Dylan and later the 2019 film Rolling Thunder Revue: A Bob Dylan Story by Martin Scorsese. These projects showcase Scorsese's dedication to capturing the essence of America's most enigmatic songwriter.
A Mutual Admiration
Dylan's respect for the filmmaker runs equally deep. During a performance at New York's Beacon Theatre, the singer openly praised Scorsese, calling him "one of probably the best directors, ever." But what came next surprised many in attendance.
The folk icon revealed his personal favorite among Scorsese's extensive filmography: "My favourite movie, I told him before, is The Last Temptation of Christ. I think he's gonna make one for the first temptation one of these days. Right, Marty? You just got to, for me."
A Bold and Divisive Choice
Released in 1988, The Last Temptation of Christ starred Willem Dafoe as Jesus and explored themes that shocked religious communities worldwide. The film depicted Christ wrestling with human desires, guilt, and temptation while grappling with his divine nature.
Religious groups launched massive protests against the movie. In Paris, someone actually set fire to a theater showing the film, seriously injuring several moviegoers. Many countries banned the picture outright, and censors heavily edited versions that did make it to screens.
Why This Pick Makes Sense
Dylan's choice reflects his own relationship with controversy throughout his career. The singer has never shied away from challenging expectations or stirring debate. His selection of Scorsese's most contested work aligns perfectly with his artistic philosophy of pushing boundaries and questioning established norms.
Despite being deeply religious himself, Dylan champions a film that many faithful viewers found offensive. This paradox captures the complexity that defines both artists - their willingness to explore difficult questions about faith, humanity, and artistic expression.