But with excellent pacing, a compelling story and twists and turns reminiscent of the critically acclaimed Goodfellas, Scorsese's The Departed sees a director back on top form.
Based on the 2002 Hong Kong hit film, Infernal Affairs, the movie follows the path of two police officers and their connection to an Irish-American mob syndicate in Boston run by Frank Costello (Jack Nicholson).
Billy Costigan (Leonardo DiCaprio) is an undercover cop assigned to infiltrate the gang, whereas crooked police officer Colin Sullivan (Matt Damon) is an informant for the syndicate.
Both men become deeply consumed by their double lives and are embroiled in a race against time to discover the identity of each other.
The ensuing story is a bold and bloody affair and one of those compulsive thrillers that immediately keeps you hooked right up until the credits.
Scorsese's talents aside, the film also succeeds because of a star-studded cast all at the top of their game, including Hollywood heavyweights such as Martin Sheen, Ray Winstone and Alec Baldwin.
Even Scorsese's golden boy Leonardo DiCaprio and the usually lukewarm Matt Damon give tremendous performances.
However, credit especially goes to Jack Nicholson for his chilling and electrifying portrayal of mob boss Frank Costello.
This is a universal film suitable for Scorsese fans as much as people just after a good police thriller.
But be warned, like much of Scorsese's work, it is very, very violent.
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