Taxi Driver

The most fascinating aspect of the 1976 American crime/vigilante film Taxi Driver is the fact that the director, Martin Scorsese, allows the viewer to formulate their own opinion about Travis Bickle. It is apparent throughout the film that Travis is mentally unstable, however it is never explained why or how to the audience. This I find captivating because there are many opinions of why he is the way that he is. In the very beginning of the movie, it is subtly brought to the viewer’s attention that Travis was honorably discharged from the United States Marines. Martin Scorsese never goes into this any further. While some believe that Travis is mentally challenged, I believe he is diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder. Something that he must have picked up from his many years in the marines. I believe this explains his involuntary need to help others and "save" them. Whether that be from themselves or from others. In this case, the victim, Iris, was caught up in child prostitution. Travis took it upon himself to enlighten her on what she doing and also become an apparent hero of Iris' and her family. While the acts he committed were horrible, the intention was pure and heartwarming. Something very interesting. While most post traumatic stress disorder stories are negative, this gives viewers the belief that heros are walking amongst us, and can be found in anyone. The subtle aspects of this movie truly make Taxi Driver one of the best films I have seen.