The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)

The Wolf of Wall Street tells the true story of Jordan Belfort, from his rise to a wealthy stockbroker living the high life to his fall involving crime, corruption and the federal government. It's the 5th collaboration between Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio.

Right from the start, I was hooked. Sure, these guys are crazy, despicable people but I couldn't keep my eyes off of them. Nobody knows how to tell stories of despicable people better than Scorsese. They were fascinating and thoroughly entertaining. It's like Goodfellas but with stockbrokers. Instead of guns and violence, it's sex and drugs.

It shines light on the world of these sleezy stock brokers and their drug fueled sex parties. Judging by all the reports of people being offended by the graphic nature of it, I actually thought it would be worse. It's an adult movie and adults should be able to handle it all.

Sure, it's pretty graphic at times but it's 2013... People are okay with murder and bloody violence, yet they freak out over some nudity? It's not THAT bad.

This movie wouldn't be what it is without Leonardo DiCaprio. I've always been a fan, but he still blew me away. The Wolf of Wall Street is simply the best performance of his career. It was great to finally see him lighten up and have some fun. He was electric. Even if he does get robbed at the Oscars again, this will easily be remembered as his best performance and one of the best in a Scorsese film.

For the other performances, the whole cast hits it out of the park. Jonah Hill and Margot Robbie are the standouts. I can't believe Hill was nominated for Moneyball but is getting ignored here. Robbie, stunningly beautiful, is able to match DiCaprio beat for beat.

Belfort's story is troubling. It's a vital look at greed, pride, and the downside of the American dream. Everyone wants to make money and get rich. When people have such hopes for success, there will always be others trying to take advantage. Belfort is one of those people who uses the misfortunes of others for his own gain. This capitalist idea is part our society. Even how vile a character Belfort is, people like him will keep spawning because on some level we want to be like him.

I honestly don't think anyone else would be able to play Belfort. With how disgusting character he is, it's a tough task. But DiCaprio was able to add enough charisma and charm to keep us interested and make the movie work.

The Wolf of Wall Street is another Scorsese masterpiece. It was the most fun I've had at the movies all year. In year filled with great movies, The Wolf of Wall Street stands out above the rest. It's my first 10/10 of the year.

(10/10)