Filmmaker Martin Scorsese has paid tribute to his close friend and fellow director Rob Reiner, who tragically passed away earlier this month at the hands of his son, Nick Reiner. In an emotionally charged essay for The New York Times, Scorsese reflected on their friendship, expressing deep sorrow over the loss. He wrote, “Rob Reiner was my friend, and so was Michele. From now on, I’ll have to use the past tense, and that fills me with such profound sadness.”
Scorsese recounted his first meeting with Reiner in the early 1970s, highlighting their instant connection. He described Reiner as someone with a “natural affinity” for others, who brought laughter and joy to every encounter. “He was hilarious and sometimes bitingly funny, but he was never the kind of guy who would take over the room,” Scorsese noted. This sentiment captures the essence of Reiner’s character, which combined humor with a refreshing humility.
A Lasting Bond Through Cinema
Throughout their years of friendship, Scorsese and Reiner supported each other’s work in the film industry. Scorsese fondly recalled moments they shared as fellow New York transplants navigating Hollywood. He mentioned casting Reiner in his acclaimed film The Wolf of Wall Street, as well as a memorable moment during a tribute at the Kennedy Center where they shared laughter.
Reflecting on Reiner’s film legacy, Scorsese cited his personal favorite, Misery, praising the performances of Kathy Bates and James Caan. He also celebrated the iconic film This Is Spinal Tap, calling it “a kind of immaculate creation.” Scorsese emphasized that Reiner’s contributions as both director and actor were integral to the film’s success, underscoring the unique brilliance of his work.
A Deep Sense of Loss
Scorsese expressed that the circumstances surrounding Reiner’s death are incomprehensible. He described them as “an obscenity, an abyss in lived reality,” reflecting the profound impact of this tragedy not only on him but also on their extensive circle of friends. He acknowledged the passage of time as a necessary element in processing the loss, stating, “the only thing that will help me to accept it is the passing of time.”
In closing, Scorsese articulated a heartfelt wish: “I have to be allowed to imagine them alive and well … and that one day, I’ll be at a dinner or a party and find myself seated next to Rob, and I’ll hear his laugh and see his beatific face.” This poignant sentiment encapsulates the enduring legacy of Reiner’s spirit and the cherished memories he leaves behind.
Scorsese’s tribute serves as a testament to the powerful bond they shared and the indelible mark Reiner made on the lives of those around him, particularly in the realm of cinema.
