7 out of 10

Rating: 9/10 (11 September 2002)

The direction is great and even though Bickle's character isn't written all too well he really makes the character. Its no surprise that i have never heard to the character refered to as Travis Bickle in conversation, only DeNiro, or Deniro's character. Either way, his presence on screen is prolific and is reason enough to be interested in his character. However good the direction is (and it is, the film is shot in a very modern style with fast cuts and odd angles for its time) the story is ultimately lacking... The story is a huge buildup for little pay-off. I wonder if this is because the studio and censors would not allow for the big ending we all expect when we watch this movie but for whatever reason it is short and unexplained (and a little unrealistic.) Before the halfway point i was sure i would love this movie and probably buy the dvd but unfortunately it wasnt what i expected. Not to take too much away from the film, i still think it was groundbreaking and probably underappreciated but you can't help but wish there was more to it.