Martin Scorsese, the 82-year-old Hollywood titan behind cinematic masterpieces like Goodfellas, Taxi Driver and Shutter Island, is undoubtedly one of the most esteemed filmmakers in history.

When it comes to cinema, this New York-born director, producer and screenwriter’s opinion carries significant weight. Hence, one actor can consider himself exceptionally honoured after being dubbed the ‘finest of his generation’ by Scorsese in a video that has since gone viral.

The actor in question? None other than Adam Driver, celebrated for his roles in the Star Wars saga, TV series Girls and the 2020 film Marriage Story, which earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Actor in 2019.

However, it was Driver’s performance in the 2016 thriller Silence, helmed by Scorsese, that garnered this high praise from the veteran filmmaker.

In this historical drama based on the 1966 novel of the same name, Driver portrays Father Francisco Garupe.

The narrative follows two 17th-century Portuguese missionaries, Father Sebastian Rodrigues (Andrew Garfield) and Father Francisco Garupe (Driver), as they journey to Japan in search of their missing mentor (Liam Neeson).

During their stay, they minister to Christian villagers who practise their faith in secret. If discovered by feudal lords or samurai, they must renounce their religion or endure a slow and agonising death.

Both Adam Driver and Andrew Garfield underwent a seven-day Jesuit silent prayer retreat, with guidance from Jesuit scholar Martin, to immerse themselves in their roles for the film.

It has been revealed that Driver shed nearly fifty pounds for his portrayal in the movie.

At a press conference for the film, with Driver by his side, Scorsese was captured in a clip, which has resurfaced on X, saying: “The experience I had with him [Driver]… yes remarkable screen presence, but truly… got to say it, one of the finest, if not the finest of his generation.”

The audience’s applause is audible as Driver shows his appreciation and embraces Scorsese warmly.

The clip has since gone viral, amassing over 58,000 views, with fans expressing their admiration.

One viewer exclaimed: “Two legends!” while another praised Silence as “a great movie”.

Another fan added their voice, stating: “For me Silence is the best Scorsese movie. With Parasites and Drive my car, the top three of the last decade.”