Scorsese would like to direct more 'Boardwalk'

Critics are very respectful to Martin Scorsese, who is here via satellite to promote "Boardwalk Empire." They call him "Mr. Scorsese" while the show's writer, "Sopranos" vet Terence Winter, is addressed as "Terence."

The first six episodes have been sent to critics and the word in the room is that they're "very, very good."

Scorsese says he "would like very much" to direct more episodes of the series (he helmed the pilot), though added that scheduling is an issue.

The famed director says TV in recent years is finally managing to fulfill the creative community's hopes of exceptions of the medium.

"What's happening the past nine, ten years was what we had hoped for in the mid-60s when films were being made for TV," he said. "We hoped there would be this kind of freedom and ability to create another world and develop long-form characters and story. That didn't happen in the 70s, 80s and 90s. And, of course, ['Boardwalk Empire'] is a good example and the extraordinary series they have. I've been tempted to be involved with them over the years."

An HBO publicist kicked off the session by saying: "HBO is proud to tke you to the Jersey shore. The difference is you're going to see some great writing, great directing, great production values."

Star Steve Buscemi -- who came off very humble, likable -- said about landing the coveted lead role: "Only in my wildest fantasies … it was sort of terrifying, in a way, but also so exciting … when I first got the script, I'm almost sorry I'm reading this because if I don't get it, I'm going to be so sad."

More to come...