Taxi Driver (1976) - Critical Reviews

Synopsis

Travis Bickle is an ex-Marine and Vietnam War veteran living in New York City. As he suffers from insomnia, he spends his time working as a taxi driver at night, watching porn movies at seedy cinemas during the day, or thinking about how the world, New York in particular, has deteriorated into a cesspool. He's a loner who has strong opinions about what is right and wrong with mankind. For him, the one bright spot in New York humanity is Betsy, a worker on the presidential nomination campaign of Senator Charles Palantine. He becomes obsessed with her. After an incident with her, he believes he has to do whatever he needs to make the world a better place in his opinion. One of his priorities is to be the savior for Iris, a twelve-year-old runaway and prostitute who he believes wants out of the profession and under the thumb of her pimp and lover Matthew.

Critical Acclaim

The 1976 release of Taxi Driver marked a significant moment in American cinema, receiving widespread critical acclaim for its gritty portrayal of urban alienation. Critics praised Martin Scorsese's direction and Paul Schrader's screenplay for capturing the unsettling atmosphere of New York City in the 1970s. The film's unflinching exploration of violence and moral decay resonated with audiences and critics alike, positioning Taxi Driver as a pivotal work in the New Hollywood era. The intensity of Robert De Niro's performance as Travis Bickle, alongside Jodie Foster's striking portrayal of Iris, garnered particular attention.

Notable critics of the time, such as Roger Ebert, hailed Taxi Driver as "one of the best and most powerful of all films," awarding it four stars and praising Scorsese's ability to craft a complex psychological narrative. Vincent Canby of The New York Times lauded it as "a terrific film" that delves deep into the psyche of its troubled protagonist. In modern times, the film maintains a strong critical consensus, reflected in a 96% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, illustrating its enduring appeal and influence. Reviewers continue to commend its raw depiction of inner turmoil and societal disillusionment.

The long-lasting impact of Taxi Driver is evident in its significant contributions to both film and popular culture. It received four Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, and took home the Palme d'Or at the 1976 Cannes Film Festival, solidifying its status as a cinematic classic. The film's iconic line, "You talking to me?" has entered the cultural lexicon and is frequently quoted and referenced. Taxi Driver remains a staple in discussions about the evolution of film narrative and character study, and its influence can be seen in numerous subsequent films and directors who draw inspiration from its bold storytelling and visual style.