How did Martin Scorsese's asthma as a child influence his filmmaking career?

Scorsese's severe asthma as a child forced him to stay home and observe people, which led to his passion for cinema and ultimately shaped his remarkable career as a legendary filmmaker.

What were some of the major setbacks that Martin Scorsese faced in his career?

The documentary reveals that Scorsese faced numerous setbacks and failures throughout his career, including being yanked off the editing of the seminal documentary "Woodstock" and the infamous misfire of "New York, New York."

How does Martin Scorsese's Catholicism and fascination with violence intersect in his films?

The documentary explores the dichotomy between Scorsese's Catholicism and his fascination with violence, which has permeated much of his work, from religious epics to gritty crime dramas, as he grapples with the essential, metaphysical questions of good and evil.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Asthma Fueled Scorsese's Cinematic Genius: New Documentary Explores Filmmaker's Lifelong Struggle

Asthma Fueled Scorsese's Cinematic Genius: New Documentary Explores Filmmaker's Lifelong Struggle

16 Oct

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Summary

Scorsese's asthma as a child forced him to stay home and observe people, leading to his love of cinema
Scorsese has had numerous setbacks and failures throughout his career, but has always reinvented himself
Scorsese's Catholicism and fascination with violence are explored in the new documentary

Asthma Fueled Scorsese's Cinematic Genius: New Documentary Explores Filmmaker's Lifelong Struggle

As of October 16th, 2025, a new five-part documentary series titled "Mr Scorsese" is set to premiere on Apple TV, exploring the life and work of legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese. The series delves into Scorsese's New York upbringing, including his lifelong struggle with severe asthma as a child.

Scorsese's asthma forced him to stay home and observe people through the glass panes of his window, while his parents took him to the cinema as often as possible, providing him with a steady supply of more easily breathable air. This early exposure to the world of cinema would go on to shape Scorsese's remarkable career, as he has since become one of the most influential directors of our time.