duncan g (sideburnsmcculloch)

For me this film is what a movie should be, dramatic and beautiful while also provoking an idea inside the viewer's mind. De Niro's performance as the warped and disillusioned sociopath Travis Bickle is incredible and shows that he is the greatest acting talent of all time. The depth that he gives the character means that we do not hate Travis even though he is one of the most dislikeable characters ever created on paper. The relatively small supporting cast also put in great performances. Jodie Foster's character is acted out to perfection, and this alone makes it great. However everything else done to the film is brilliant as well, Martin Scorsese's directing presents the story and guides us along with it subtly and not simply explaining it. He also manages to emphasise impressively Travis' isolation and almost justify his thoughts and actions with our view of New York as a venal hell. The soundtrack is also brilliant with Bernard Herrman providing a jazz like set which layers Travis' view of New York with even more disgust for this nihilistic city. This film for me is perfect and cannot be beaten and makes it my favourite film.

A Beautiful film. Enough said. No not enough said, it is perfect cinema, this one film of Miyazaki's outshines every disney animation. And far from a kid's film and should be watched by everyone.