Taxi Driver

Definition

Taxi Driver is a 1976 American psychological thriller film directed by Martin Scorsese, which tells the story of Travis Bickle, a mentally unstable Vietnam War veteran who becomes a taxi driver in New York City. The film explores themes of alienation, violence, and the search for redemption, making it a pivotal work in the New Hollywood era and showcasing Scorsese's unique directorial style.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Taxi Driver was written by Paul Schrader and is notable for its iconic monologue 'You talking to me?' delivered by Robert De Niro.
2. The film won the Palme d'Or at the 1976 Cannes Film Festival, solidifying its place as a critical success and a significant cultural landmark.
3. Taxi Driver features a haunting score by composer Bernard Herrmann, which adds to the film's tense and unsettling atmosphere.
4. The film serves as a commentary on the social issues of the 1970s, including urban decay, loneliness, and the consequences of war on veterans.
5. Travis Bickle's descent into madness reflects broader themes of isolation and disconnection from society, making it a vital case study for understanding character development in film.

Review Questions

• How does Taxi Driver exemplify the characteristics of New Hollywood cinema?
  • Taxi Driver is a prime example of New Hollywood cinema due to its focus on complex characters and social issues that challenge conventional storytelling. The film’s raw portrayal of urban life in 1970s America highlights themes of alienation and moral ambiguity. Additionally, Martin Scorsese's innovative direction and the film's unflinching depiction of violence set it apart from earlier studio films, making it emblematic of this transformative era in filmmaking.
• Discuss the significance of Travis Bickle as an antihero in Taxi Driver and how this characterization impacts audience perception.
  • Travis Bickle is portrayed as an antihero whose morally questionable actions evoke both empathy and revulsion from the audience. His struggle with isolation and desire for connection reflect deeper societal issues that resonate throughout the film. This complex portrayal challenges traditional notions of heroism, prompting viewers to grapple with their own judgments about morality, violence, and redemption in modern society.
• Analyze how Taxi Driver's themes of alienation and violence contribute to its status as an influential work within Martin Scorsese's filmography.
  • Taxi Driver’s exploration of alienation and violence significantly contributes to its status as an influential work within Martin Scorsese's filmography. By portraying Travis Bickle's psychological deterioration against the backdrop of a gritty New York City, Scorsese sheds light on the impact of societal neglect on individuals. This examination not only defines Bickle's character but also echoes throughout Scorsese’s later works, solidifying his reputation as a filmmaker unafraid to confront uncomfortable truths about humanity.

Related terms

Martin Scorsese:

An influential American film director, producer, screenwriter, and actor known for his innovative storytelling and mastery of cinematic techniques, particularly in the crime and psychological genres.

New Hollywood: A period in American cinema during the late 1960s to the early 1980s characterized by filmmakers gaining creative control and producing films that explored more complex themes and narratives.

Antihero: A central character in a story who lacks conventional heroic qualities, often engaging in morally ambiguous behavior, which is exemplified by Travis Bickle's character in Taxi Driver.