Every Martin Scorsese Movie Ranked Worst To Best

At the centre of Scorsese's exploration of the rise and fall of the enigmatic Howard Hughes stands perhaps the greatest performance of Leonardo DiCaprio's career - a compelling juggling act that balances charm, tragedy and desperation with deep, unwavering sympathy.

Aside from its empathetic portrayal of a great man burdened by creeping, hidden demons, The Aviator is also one of Scorsese's most action-packed, daring directorial efforts, full to bursting with exceptionally thrilling flying scenes that, whilst epically conceived, never take away from the film's intimate core.

Proof that Scorsese makes all he does feel effortless, The Aviator is a powerful collection of lingering images and towering performances - including an Oscar-winning Cate Blanchett - that feels both grand and personal, explosive and sorrowful.