Martin Scorsese is known for his sharp eye and iconic style, but when it came to his involvement with the Apple TV+ series The Studio, he surprised the show‘s creators by holding back his feedback. The reserved approach Scorsese took on set has become a talking point for co-creators Evan Goldberg and Alex Gregory, who had anticipated more direct influence from the legendary director, making Martin Scorsese input on The Studio Apple TV show notable for its restraint.
Scorsese’s History of Self-Deprecation and Respect for Others’ Work
Longtime fans of Martin Scorsese may remember his willingness to joke about himself, famously seen in an early 2000s American Express commercial where he critiqued his own home video skills. In that ad, Scorsese fussed over the technical aspects of family party photos, poking fun at his own reputation for attention to detail. However, as The Studio’s co-creators Evan Goldberg and Alex Gregory observed, this willingness to comment bluntly on his own work does not translate to interfering with others’ creative processes on set.
Behind the Scenes: Scorsese’s Subtle Approach During Filming
During production on The Studio, Goldberg and Gregory shared how Scorsese was present for scenes he was featured in but chose not to interject his thoughts immediately. Of note: Scorsese did have input about a particular sequence but deliberately saved it for after the shot was completed. This self-restraint was unexpected given his stature. Goldberg, who co-directed the show with Seth Rogen, described his own habit of inviting input from anyone on set but emphasized that even he would have treated suggestions from someone like Scorsese with extra seriousness.
“There was a moment where him and Charlize Theron were whispering to each other, and it took like 10 takes to get the shot,”
Goldberg explained to the outlet.
“And then we got it and I was like, ‘What were you whispering about?’ He was like, ‘I knew you were doing this wrong, but I didn’t wanna be a backseat director, so I just didn’t say anything.’ And I was like, ‘Well, we could have used that time, but I appreciate that you didn’t wanna manhandle us.’”
—Evan Goldberg, Co-Creator
This exchange highlighted the high level of mutual respect on set, especially when a veteran like Scorsese chose to let Goldberg and Rogen take the lead.
The Impact of Scorsese’s Presence on The Studio
Goldberg and Gregory were both delighted and surprised by Scorsese’s participation in the project. His role on the show became a point of pride for the cast and crew, and his willingness to be involved lent credibility to the production. Gregory expressed his surprise at landing such a renowned filmmaker, while Goldberg recalled their initial uncertainty that Scorsese would actually follow through with his appearance.
“Pretty shocked Martin Scorsese was in the show.”
—Alex Gregory, Co-Creator
“The fact that he actually showed up, ‘cause we kept thinking, ‘He’s gonna cancel. It’s too amazing,’”
Goldberg noted.
“‘It’s too special. He’s just the best.’”
—Evan Goldberg, Co-Creator
Scorsese’s involvement also encouraged other notable performers, such as Charlize Theron, to join the project. The mood on set was elevated by his presence, with everyone appreciative despite his reluctance to provide direct creative direction.
Significance of Scorsese’s Approach and Legacy on Set
While Scorsese’s input on The Studio Apple TV show may have been muted, his decision to refrain from offering unsolicited advice underscored a deep respect for the creative process of other filmmakers. This gesture not only showed humility from a cinematic heavyweight but also created a collaborative and supportive environment during the show’s filming. For Goldberg, Rogen, and Gregory, the experience of working alongside Scorsese—and seeing his hands-off approach—proved as influential as receiving any direct advice. As other cast members and viewers look back on The Studio, Scorsese’s respectful involvement will remain a highlight, likely setting a tone for future high-profile collaborations in the industry.
