Review of Mean Streets (1973) by Bill F — 05 Sep 2009

This was Martin Scorsese's breakthrough film, or so I read, which is the reason I wanted to see it. However, it is so goddamn boring that I only watched it all the way through out of respect for Marty. Thank god for fast forward though.

I am always delighted to see Robert De Niro's performances from the time he still tried. It reminds me what a great actor he used to be, although it is weird to see him as a young punk. Too bad his character is fucking annoying. I mean, who the hell would keep such friends? I was supposed to care about the character's well-being I think, but all I hoped was that he'd die as soon as possible. I was actually glad when he was shot. That'll shut you the hell up, bitch!

The trademark Scorsese visual style is evident in many scenes. There are some awesome long takes that are also pretty unusual. Charlie's passing out comes to mind instantly. I also love the music in the movie. And there are the good points.

I don't like mindless mayhem, and I was quickly put off by the constantly fighting characters. What the hell is their problem, honestly? The entire film is just following this bunch of people sitting in bars and fighting. There's no plot to think of. That is never something I welcome with open arms, unless the movie itself is something truly remarkable. This one certainly isn't.

I'm glad this movie launched Scorsese's career, as he made some great movies later, but for the life of me I can't understand why this film helped him in any way. Maybe I should have been alive at the time to understand it. Whatever the case, I do believe this is a pretty shitty movie.