Martin Scorsese’s Taxi Driver (1976) is hailed as one of the most iconic films in cinema history, with its gripping narrative, stellar performances, and haunting portrayal of urban isolation. From Robert De Niro’s method acting to Jodie Foster’s groundbreaking role, the film’s behind-the-scenes trivia reveals the meticulous efforts that shaped this masterpiece. Here’s a deep dive into some fascinating aspects of the film’s production, its cast, and the impact it left on Hollywood.
1. Robert De Niro’s Immersion: A Cab Driver by Night
Robert De Niro’s commitment to authenticity is legendary, and Taxi Driver exemplifies his method acting. To prepare for the role of Travis Bickle, De Niro worked as a late-night taxi driver in New York City. He clocked 15-hour shifts over a month in early 1975, even encountering passengers who recognized him from The Godfather Part II (1974), for which he had just won an Oscar. One struggling actor, upon realizing who De Niro was, quipped, “Is it that hard to get work?” De Niro also studied mental illness and visited a U.S. Army base in Italy to tape-record Midwestern soldiers’ accents, further shaping his portrayal of Bickle.
2. Paul Schrader’s Painful Inspiration
Screenwriter Paul Schrader’s personal struggles served as the foundation for Taxi Driver. During a period of intense loneliness and despair, Schrader experienced a nervous breakdown, squatted in his ex-girlfriend’s apartment, and isolated himself from the world. The idea for the script came as he spent long hours delivering chicken in Los Angeles, feeling detached from human connection. While Schrader initially set the story in Los Angeles, he moved it to New York City, where taxi drivers were ubiquitous, adding to the authenticity of the narrative.
3. The Evolution of Travis Bickle: Improvisation and Symbolism
One of the film’s most iconic scenes—Travis Bickle’s “You talkin’ to me?” monologue—was entirely improvised by De Niro. The script only mentioned that Travis looks in the mirror. Drawing inspiration from Stella Adler’s acting exercises and encouraged by Scorsese, De Niro crafted a scene that cemented Travis’s unraveling psyche in cinematic history. This moment encapsulates Travis’s loneliness and desperation for interaction, even if it’s with his reflection.
4. Jodie Foster: A Young Star’s Breakthrough
At just 12 years old, Jodie Foster delivered a groundbreaking performance as Iris, a child prostitute. To prepare for the role, Foster shadowed a real-life prostitute and incorporated observed behaviors into her character. Due to her age, certain explicit scenes were performed by her older sister, Connie Foster, who served as her body double. Foster also attended counseling sessions to ensure she could emotionally handle the role’s demands.
5. Martin Scorsese’s Directorial Vision
Scorsese’s directorial brilliance is evident in every frame of Taxi Driver. One of the film’s most poignant shots occurs when Travis calls Betsy for a second date. As the conversation turns awkward, the camera pans to an empty hallway, symbolizing Travis’s isolation. Scorsese also used the infamous garbage strike in New York to his advantage, with real-life trash heaps enhancing the city’s grim atmosphere.
6. Bernard Herrmann’s Haunting Score
Renowned composer Bernard Herrmann created the film’s unforgettable score, blending dissonant brass with atmospheric melodies to reflect Travis’s inner turmoil. Herrmann initially declined the project, dismissing it as a “car movie,” but changed his mind after reading the script. Tragically, Herrmann passed away on Christmas Eve 1975, just hours after completing the recording sessions. The film was dedicated to his memory.
7. The Controversial Script and Changes
Paul Schrader’s original script faced criticism for its depiction of racial themes. In the early drafts, characters such as Sport and the Mafioso were written as Black, but Scorsese and Schrader decided to change them to white men to avoid accusations of racism. Despite the revisions, the film sparked debates about its portrayal of violence and mental illness.
8. Cybill Shepherd and Casting Challenges
The producers sought a “Cybill Shepherd type” for the role of Betsy, and Shepherd herself was ultimately cast. However, her on-set struggles with remembering lines caused tension during filming. Despite these challenges, Shepherd delivered a memorable performance that complemented De Niro’s intense portrayal.
9. Improvisation and Realism on Set
Improvisation played a significant role in Taxi Driver. Harvey Keitel, who portrayed Sport, rehearsed with actual pimps to embody his character. The dance scene between Sport and Iris was entirely unscripted, adding authenticity to their dynamic. Meanwhile, scenes like Travis’s final shootout were marred by technical difficulties but benefited from the cast’s resilience.
10. Cultural Impact and Legacy
Taxi Driver left an indelible mark on cinema and culture. Its exploration of loneliness and alienation resonates with audiences to this day. However, the film also had darker ramifications. John Hinckley Jr. cited the movie as an influence in his attempt to assassinate President Ronald Reagan in 1981. Despite such controversies, Taxi Driver remains a critical and commercial success, earning four Academy Award nominations and solidifying Scorsese and De Niro as cinematic powerhouses.
A Timeless Exploration of Isolation
Taxi Driver is more than a movie; it’s a profound study of the human psyche. From De Niro’s transformative performance to Scorsese’s meticulous direction, every element of the film contributes to its status as a masterpiece. The behind-the-scenes stories not only highlight the dedication of its cast and crew but also underscore the timeless relevance of its themes. As a film that continues to inspire and provoke discussion, Taxi Driver remains a touchstone in cinematic history.