Review of Taxi Driver (1954) by Daniel T — 30 Apr 2014

In a way, the film reminds me of a story that resembles something of a superhero comic. Most of the film is spent following Travis around New York as he hones his keen observation skills all the while figuring out whether or not to use his powers--remember, he's also an ex-marine who knows how to handle a gun--for good or bad.

Ultimately, he chooses good over bad after his attempt at assassinating Senator Palantine goes kaput thus causing him to save Iris. While this theory can easily be argued--i've heard other theories that argue the ending might not even be real but a figment of Travis's imagination--it's the music which sells this theory.

Throughout the film, there's a constant clash between light and dark while listening to the soft jazz in comparison to the menacing operatic piece. It symbolizes the inner turmoil of Travis's self-reflection as to who he is destined to become.