Review of Taxi Driver (1976) by Danny R — 23 Jul 2015
A profoundly disturbing psychological horror story about urban alienation and finally madness. Robert De Niro's magnificent portrayal of an embittered, lonely Vietnam War Marine veteran who drives a taxi at night while turning into an urban guerrilla is one of the most chilling and repellent characters in the history of modern films.
Martin Scorsese establishes himself as one of the most gifted directors of his generation with this unforgettable masterpiece. A cold-blooded tale of one man's lurid decent into the abyss of psychosis and despair is undeniably powerful and tough to watch.
The hypnotic, spellbinding cinematography by Michael Chapman introduces us to the hellish New York City of the mid-1970s and it's nighttime environment of whores, junkies, pimps, hoodlums, thieves and assorted maniacs, who are all elements in the world of Travis Bickle, the "Taxi Driver.
" Paul Schrader's strikingly original screenplay is sensational, as is the late Bernard Herrmann's magnificently haunting score. There are memorable supporting performances by Jodie Foster, Albert Brooks, Harvey Keitel, Leonard Harris, Peter Boyle, and Cybill Shepherd.
The shocking climactic sequence when the "Taxi Driver" finally loses it, is brutal, horrific and cinematically brilliant. This film has it's place in history not just as a great work of cinematic art, but also because of the infamous John Hinckley Jr.
who felt so connected to the main character in the film, Travis Bickle, that it inspired him to attempt to assassinate President Ronald Reagan, when he shot him to prove his love to actress Jodie Foster, who played a 12 year old prostitute in the film.
Hinckley was found not guilty by reason of insanity, his attorney concluded the defense by playing the movie for the jury. One of the greatest achievements in the history of the American cinema. Winner of the prestigious Golden Palm at the Cannes Film Festival (1976) and nominated for 4 Academy Awards including Best Picture, Best Actor: Robert De Niro, Best Supporting Actress: Jodie Foster, and Best Original Score: Bernard Herrmann.
"Taxi Driver" is number 47 on the American Film Institute's list of the 100 greatest films ever made. Highly Recommended.
This review of Taxi Driver (1976) was written by Danny R on 23 Jul 2015.
Taxi Driver has generally received very positive reviews.
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