Relaxing Jazz Noir

Rating: 10/10 (19 January 2014)

Taxi Driver is one of those films that I know everything about and yet, in reality, know nothing. I thought I'd seen it several times before and yet, this was the very first time.
In fact, I know so little about this film, I'm pretty sure I'm watching a tale about the day-in-the-life experiences of a taxi driver, including the multiple personalities he picks up along the way. My instincts tell me though that something different, perhaps even bizarre, is going to happen, but I'd be just as content to see De Niro get together with the beautiful blonde and ride off into the sunset, but somehow I know this isn't going to happen.
I imagined something brash and vulgar, but instead it's a superbly laid-back and relaxing experience. The camera work is astonishing too, with such clear lines and easy angles.
Even though I know nothing about this film, I can still perceive its importance. Is it a story about a confused man coming to terms with being a straightforward taxi driver, or a man that's gradually going out of his mind, sliding through the sewer of life?
In case, just like me, you think you've seen this film before but really haven't, I'm telling you - it's an absolutely excellent, rewarding film that casts aside pre-conceptions of backstreet trashiness and replaces them with a newly found respect for mankind, it's that powerful.
A 10/10 viewing experience without any shadow of a doubt.