prize money

His films obsessively explore characters driven by the pursuit of prizes and rewards, from boxing glory in 'The Wrestler' to mathematical breakthrough in 'Pi' to ballet perfection in 'Black Swan'.

He repeatedly examines the corrupting influence of money and prizes through crime, gambling, and ambition in films like 'Casino', 'The Departed', and 'Goodfellas'.

His sprawling narratives dissect how characters chase wealth, success, and validation as prizes within American capitalism in 'There Will Be Blood', 'Boogie Nights', and 'The Master'.