Poking Holes in the Glamour: Martin Scorsese Critiques Entertainment Tonight

Martin Scorsese Calls Out Entertainment Tonight in His Second-Best Film of the Year

By Rebecca Alter

Photo: Francesca Scorsese via TikTok

Martin Scorsese may criminally only have one Oscar (so far! Killers of the Flower Moon Best Picture campaign begins now), but maybe it’s for the best because his trophy shelf is probably already buckling under the weight of all those Father of the Year awards. The octogenarian is always an exemplary sport in his daughter Francesca’s TikToks, whether he’s yes-and-ing her invisible pet flea or having her back against anyone who wrongs her. But he ascended to another level on October 5 with his latest, greatest onscreen role yet, in “Dad Guesses Slang.”

In this video, Francesca grills her dad on Gen Z slang by putting it in contexts he can understand. It’s a complete delight and a must-watch, and at five minutes, it’s basically The Irishman of TikToks.

Digging into Martin Scorsese’s Guesses

Marty starts off strong, guessing that “I’m going to spill the tea” means “You’re gonna tell all you know” and that the “ick” means thorough repulsion. Things get trickier with the third term, “sneaky link,” which he thinks means a “personal peccadillo.” When Francesca tells him it basically means a regular hookup, he goes, “We never saw specific people in my day,” so there’s your official confirmation that Marty got around.

Things go a little bit better when Francesca puts these words in terms he can understand: “Watching a movie in 70 mm hits different” translates to him as, “It’s another perspective on the image so to speak!” and “The King of Comedy was slept on” gets him going on how it was, “The flop of the year — that’s what it was called on Entertainment Tonight. New Year’s Eve, ’83 to ’84.” When she tells him Lily Gladstone “Ate in Killers of the Flower Moon,” he knows that means “ruled.”

Cap, throwing shade, slap, and slay are gimmies, but “a ship is a boat,” and he calls himself a simp because to him it means someone who’s “whining all the time.” If she had just said, “You simp for Leo,” he would have had it on the first try, for sure.

Martin Scorsese: A Cultural Icon

Martin Scorsese, at 79 years old, continues to captivate audiences with his wit, charm, and profound understanding of cinema. While many know him as one of the greatest directors of our time, his recent TikTok cameo serves as a reminder that he is not only a creative genius but also a loving father and a cultural icon.

Scorsese’s ability to embrace new platforms and engage in popular culture demonstrates his willingness to evolve with the times. By participating in his daughter’s TikTok videos, he not only showcases his sense of humor but also connects with a younger generation, bridging the gap between classic filmmaking and modern social media.

Moreover, Scorsese’s appearance in “Dad Guesses Slang” reveals his curiosity and eagerness to learn. Despite being a seasoned veteran in the industry, he remains open to understanding and interpreting the ever-changing language of youth culture. This willingness to adapt and engage with new ideas is precisely what has allowed Scorsese to maintain his relevance and influence over the years.

The Importance of Language and Communication

Scorsese’s attempt to decipher Gen Z slang not only highlights his ability to find meaning in unfamiliar terms but also underscores the importance of language and communication in our society. Language is not static; it evolves and adapts to reflect the changing social dynamics and cultural trends. By embracing and exploring new linguistic expressions, Scorsese not only demonstrates his appreciation for the power of words but also encourages others to do the same.

Communication is a fundamental aspect of human interaction. It allows us to connect, understand, and bridge the gaps between different generations and cultures. As Scorsese engages in conversations with his daughter about slang, he exemplifies the value of intergenerational dialogue, fostering mutual understanding and respect.

Advice to Filmmakers and Public Figures

Scorsese’s involvement in his daughter’s TikTok video serves as a reminder to filmmakers and public figures of the importance of embracing new platforms and engaging with popular culture. In an increasingly interconnected world, it is essential for artists to adapt and explore different mediums to connect with audiences of all ages.

By actively participating and involving themselves in social media trends and conversations, filmmakers can expand their reach and create meaningful connections with younger audiences. This not only ensures the longevity of their careers but also allows them to contribute to the cultural zeitgeist and shape the narratives of the future.

Furthermore, Scorsese’s willingness to learn and understand Gen Z slang highlights the significance of staying curious and open-minded. As public figures, it is crucial to continuously educate ourselves about the evolving language and cultural expressions of the communities we seek to engage with. This commitment to learning fosters inclusivity, empathy, and relevance in an ever-changing world.

In conclusion, Martin Scorsese’s appearance in “Dad Guesses Slang” exemplifies his enduring influence as a filmmaker and his ability to connect with younger generations. His participation not only showcases his genuine love for his daughter but also reinforces the importance of language, communication, and adaptability in an ever-evolving world. As filmmakers and public figures follow in Scorsese’s footsteps, they can embrace new platforms, foster intergenerational dialogue, and contribute to the rich tapestry of cultural expression.