Along with this, this scene is shot as a long shot therefore creating a considerable distance between the boxer and the audience. To be precise, Scorsese’s use of slow motion could suggest that he’s waiting for affirmation or in fact aiding the song in juxtaposing the theme of boxing by giving it a waltz-esc appearance. One could develop this to say that, due to him being solitary, it’s almost as if he’s fighting himself or that we are seeing his inner conflict. Likewise, the unidentifiable figure, the misty surroundings and low-key lighting all give the impression of unclarity and mystery to this solitary character. This is supported by the way in which the legato melody analogues to the movement, adding onto the idea that Scorsese wants to create an almost poetic atmosphere and an aesthetically harmonious scene as a whole. Classical gravitas is created due to it being played in Waltz time, Scorsese purposefully uses this to soften our interpretation of boxing as a sport. Throughout this opening scene, the non-diegetic sound of Pietro Mascagni’s ‘Cavalleria Rusticana’ is being played. Scorsese opens the film to show a figure sparring in a boxing ring as credits show on the screen.

Scorsese raging bull