FILM IN FOCUS: Taxi Driver

In this scene from Taxi Driver (Martin Scorsese, 1976), Travis Bickle (Robert De Niro) practices pulling his gun in front of a mirror.

Discussion Questions

After watching these clips from Taxi Driver, consider the questions below. Then submit your response.

Question

1. How do elements of film form create a sense of malaise that then comes to seem characteristic of post-Vietnam War urban America?

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Question

2. What aspects of Robert De Niro’s performance bring the viewer too close for comfort to his unbalanced character?

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