Login1976's Taxi Driver
Veselnov
11 years, 2 months ago at Feb 19 10:49 - Do you find Taxi Driver to be overrated like I do.
What is your thoughts?
What is your thoughts?
Deleted user
Deleted
11 years, 2 months ago at Feb 19 14:37 - It's overrated. FULL STOP.
xxixii
11 years, 2 months ago at Feb 19 16:09 - nearly every film which has a current teen cult following tends to be over-rated
to upset a few precious people heres my over-rated films list
Pulp Fiction - aside from 1 story its BS
Trainspotting - lets glorify drugs man
Requiem For A Dream - as above
A Clockwork Orange - vastly over-rated as a violent/disturbing movie but saved from crapness because Kubrick had a great eye and its a visual treat in places - in short its an art movie
Usual Suspects - the more you think about it the worse the film actually is
nearly any David lynch movie
Audition - wannabe Asian shocker spoilt by laughable character motivation and believability
to upset a few precious people heres my over-rated films list
Pulp Fiction - aside from 1 story its BS
Trainspotting - lets glorify drugs man
Requiem For A Dream - as above
A Clockwork Orange - vastly over-rated as a violent/disturbing movie but saved from crapness because Kubrick had a great eye and its a visual treat in places - in short its an art movie
Usual Suspects - the more you think about it the worse the film actually is
nearly any David lynch movie
Audition - wannabe Asian shocker spoilt by laughable character motivation and believability
youngbloods
11 years, 2 months ago at Feb 19 16:12 - I think it's overrated. It had some real good acting, directing and dialogue, but it's certainly not one of my favourites, so yes, I think it's overrated.
The Oceanair
11 years, 2 months ago at Feb 20 10:41 - 'Taxi Driver' isn't Scorsese's best. I much preferred 'GoodFellas'.
Deleted user
Deleted
11 years, 2 months ago at Feb 20 22:22 - I certainly dont think so
I'd consider it a masterpiece (though such a term has really lost all it's genuine meaning as a result of excessive overuse); it's atmospheric, tense, subtle, complex, and, in it's implications, terrifying. de Niro definitely gave what I'd call his best performance in it, as well. As far as the New Hollywood aesthetic goes, it could very well be the definitive masterpiece of that movement, which is really saying something considering what a fruitful and renaissance-like movement that was. It's a very subtle film, and the brilliance lies under the surface, but it's sort of cinematic modernism I guess you could say that really helps to make such a compelling film, both emotionally and intellectually. Parts of it still very much stick with me, which I conider to be the true mark of a great film
I'd consider it a masterpiece (though such a term has really lost all it's genuine meaning as a result of excessive overuse); it's atmospheric, tense, subtle, complex, and, in it's implications, terrifying. de Niro definitely gave what I'd call his best performance in it, as well. As far as the New Hollywood aesthetic goes, it could very well be the definitive masterpiece of that movement, which is really saying something considering what a fruitful and renaissance-like movement that was. It's a very subtle film, and the brilliance lies under the surface, but it's sort of cinematic modernism I guess you could say that really helps to make such a compelling film, both emotionally and intellectually. Parts of it still very much stick with me, which I conider to be the true mark of a great film
Deleted user
Deleted
11 years, 2 months ago at Feb 21 11:15 - Oh, yes. It's overrated. I wouldn't listen to anyone who says it's not.
That's why this review is the best review ever written:
www.listal.com/viewentry/54187
That's why this review is the best review ever written:
www.listal.com/viewentry/54187
johanlefourbe
11 years, 2 months ago at Feb 22 12:21 - 'Taxi driver' is great. Like xanadon't, m0821196 summed it pretty well.
It would be also quite interesting to see what alternatives (more in less in the same genre) the haters would rather watch.
It would be also quite interesting to see what alternatives (more in less in the same genre) the haters would rather watch.
Karolina
11 years, 2 months ago at Feb 22 12:40 - I think it's quite overrated.
But everyone's entitled to their own opinion. Opinions aren't facts, ok.
But everyone's entitled to their own opinion. Opinions aren't facts, ok.
Veselnov
11 years, 2 months ago at Feb 22 12:49 - I created this forum in the hope that people would react politely and not get all het up. Please don't do that. Like Karolina has said - everyone's entitled to their own opinion. Opinions aren't facts.
Keep that in mind and reply to this topic sensibly please.
Keep that in mind and reply to this topic sensibly please.
xxixii
11 years, 2 months ago at Feb 23 18:37 - I would throw in Jacobs Ladder into the over-rated pool - the most average mind-fuck movie I have seen
as for an alternative to Taxi Driver...Falling Down especially the scene in the burger bar and the fact you know it aint going to end well - one man pushed over the edge by life not 'Nam and all that other crap
as for an alternative to Taxi Driver...Falling Down especially the scene in the burger bar and the fact you know it aint going to end well - one man pushed over the edge by life not 'Nam and all that other crap
Deleted user
Deleted
11 years, 2 months ago at Feb 23 22:59 - @wing6008
I calmly and respectfully stated why I disagreed with your assertion; what are you asking me to "please not do"? It sounds as if your just asking me, xanadon't, and john to have the same opinion as you
I calmly and respectfully stated why I disagreed with your assertion; what are you asking me to "please not do"? It sounds as if your just asking me, xanadon't, and john to have the same opinion as you
Isolation
11 years, 2 months ago at Feb 24 19:28 - A little overrated since there were a few things I didn't understand about it, but I still love it!
Deleted user
Deleted
11 years, 1 month ago at Mar 9 12:43 - Its common consensus that its a masterpiece, it is massively influential and revolutionary for its time, its level of realism (albeit through a nihilistic perspective)and cinematography, intense method acting and soundtrack makes most modern films look like over stylized cartoons. Its reflection of poverty and modern alienation is doubtlessly lost on some,I would definitely say you ether get or you don't, which isn't to say you should be ignorant of how truly influential it is (Falling Down is okay, but more or less a watered down 90's Hollywood-lite variation on Taxi Driver, as directed by the same guy who made 'Batman and Robin', which in its way says it all).
johanlefourbe
11 years, 1 month ago at Mar 9 12:49 - I totally agree with what Orpheus and also what m08221196 said. It is indeed rather interesting that no one of us I have been rude whereas some 'Deleted user' pointed out that 'It's overrated. I wouldn't listen to anyone who says it's not.'
Of course, at the end of the day, it is a matter of taste.
Of course, at the end of the day, it is a matter of taste.
Deleted user
Deleted
11 years, 1 month ago at Mar 9 13:49 - I agree with johanlefourbe; it is a matter of taste, but to be frank I came so close to being rude about it because I absolutely love that movie.Lets just say I had to bite my metaphorical tongue.
I also find the accusations of 'current teen cult following' utterly absurd, trust me neither johanlefourbe, Xanadon't nor I are teens, and we all love the movie. Such a dry, patronizing comment is clearly built upon a lack of true understanding of both chronology and the history of cinema and in stark contrast to the level of some higher understanding for which is intended instead exposes a highly immature perspective. Just my opinion of course...guess that makes me one of your precious souls ha, ha;)
I also find the accusations of 'current teen cult following' utterly absurd, trust me neither johanlefourbe, Xanadon't nor I are teens, and we all love the movie. Such a dry, patronizing comment is clearly built upon a lack of true understanding of both chronology and the history of cinema and in stark contrast to the level of some higher understanding for which is intended instead exposes a highly immature perspective. Just my opinion of course...guess that makes me one of your precious souls ha, ha;)
johanlefourbe
11 years, 1 month ago at Mar 9 22:19 - Personally, what I enjoy the most about this movie is the main character, Travis Bickle. Basically, he is the opposite of the typical male hero that you get in your average Hollywood production. He is not heroic, he doesn't have a fancy job, a huge house but he is not exactly a typical psycho either. He is just a mild-mannered man who happens to be completely dysfunctional but his thoughts and feelings actually makes sense in the context of the story. In my opinion, he is some kind of mirror, showing us that every average person, like you and me, is actually constantly on the edge and we just need something marginal or dramatic to fall down in this mental abyss. Basically, on a psychological level, it is just really fascinating and the depth put in this character, enhanced by the tremendous acting and directing, is just mind-blowing.
About 'Falling Down', it is actually a pretty good flick but, come on, in one corner, you have De Niro-Scorsese and, in the other corner, Douglas+Schumacher, it is not what I call a fair fight. The problem with this modern version is that it spends too much time on theatrics pushing the plot towards the expected climax. Basically, even if you didn't like it, 'Taxi Driver' was a milestone, a game changer, which was hardly the case for 'Falling Down'.
About 'Falling Down', it is actually a pretty good flick but, come on, in one corner, you have De Niro-Scorsese and, in the other corner, Douglas+Schumacher, it is not what I call a fair fight. The problem with this modern version is that it spends too much time on theatrics pushing the plot towards the expected climax. Basically, even if you didn't like it, 'Taxi Driver' was a milestone, a game changer, which was hardly the case for 'Falling Down'.
Deleted user
Deleted
11 years, 1 month ago at Mar 10 18:56 - ^ Agreed
Moderator
Bml93
11 years, 1 month ago at Mar 10 22:11 - I'd pick Falling Down over Taxi Driver, like, ehm, every time, but that's me. And I'm insane.
Xanadon't
11 years, 1 month ago at Mar 12 4:46 - Not to dismiss Bml93's or anyone's preference for Falling Down (though it's something of a head-scratcher to me), but I'd be interested to hear more from wing6008 or other naysayers about why exactly Taxi Driver is overrated. And, you know, not one of the most singularly powerful and arresting products of New American Cinema.
Because when I think about the film, I imagine a haunting jazz score, a brutally focused and perfectly-measured central performance, a camera that expertly supplants us inside Travis Bickle's exterior and interior world, and an urgent and naked cry that would feel nihilistic if it didn't ring of so much compassion and remorse. And then when I sit down and watch the film I get all of that and more. So obviously I'm missing something.
Because when I think about the film, I imagine a haunting jazz score, a brutally focused and perfectly-measured central performance, a camera that expertly supplants us inside Travis Bickle's exterior and interior world, and an urgent and naked cry that would feel nihilistic if it didn't ring of so much compassion and remorse. And then when I sit down and watch the film I get all of that and more. So obviously I'm missing something.
Veselnov
11 years, 1 month ago at Mar 12 10:55 - This review is exactly what I think of the film.
Oh, and that last exaggerated statement by Xanadont is exactly why Taxi Driver is again overrated. ...Butthurt Moviebuffs & Butthurt Taxi Driver fans: there is not right or wrong answer. ...and I think everyone is easily capable of replying to this thread on their own from now on; I believe I've said all I wanted to... :P ...
P.S I think I've got a fairly steady view on what m08221196 really looks like: :) :) :)
Oh, and that last exaggerated statement by Xanadont is exactly why Taxi Driver is again overrated. ...Butthurt Moviebuffs & Butthurt Taxi Driver fans: there is not right or wrong answer. ...and I think everyone is easily capable of replying to this thread on their own from now on; I believe I've said all I wanted to... :P ...
P.S I think I've got a fairly steady view on what m08221196 really looks like: :) :) :)
Deleted user
Deleted
11 years, 1 month ago at Mar 12 13:15 - Fair enough but I will say that review has absolutely no understanding of chronology, the statement about 'generic post-Nam veteran' proves this. Sure this is something that has been reproduced so many times and has become somewhat of a movie cliche, but in 76 when Taxi Driver came out it was very much something new, I mean we're talking SIX years prior to 'First blood' here, for Christ sake. Similarly to The Deerhunter and Apocalypse Now etc( and guess what, Taxi Driver came ahead of all of those movies too!), actually addressing the war at that point was a rather taboo subject, and the very concept of going against the propaganda of war and instead exploring its damaging effects was something that was NEW and revolutionary in cinema, something we obviously take for granted today. Like I said to slag the film off because you didn't enjoy it is one thing, to deny its massive influence is just ignorant, exposing both a rather flimsy knowledge of cinema but also of history in general.
I mean I'm kind of a firm believer in that you sit down and watch a movie and you either like it or you don't . So there's no way we're gonna convince you into liking Taxi Driver. But your claim is that its overrated, so in that case we're trying to make the argument its rightly heralded as a masterpiece, and not overrated at all. Its massive influence, the fact that is was so cutting edge and ahead of it time (that's 16 years before Falling Down) is one way of formulating the exact meaning of what qualifies 'a masterpiece'. But like I say, its a little like banging the head against the proverbial brick wall.
Talking of arguments about the brilliance of 70's cinema I'd love to get in an argument with johanlefourbe about why he's so wrong about The Exorcist, but I guess that's a whole different conversation and can of worms ha,ha;)
I mean I'm kind of a firm believer in that you sit down and watch a movie and you either like it or you don't . So there's no way we're gonna convince you into liking Taxi Driver. But your claim is that its overrated, so in that case we're trying to make the argument its rightly heralded as a masterpiece, and not overrated at all. Its massive influence, the fact that is was so cutting edge and ahead of it time (that's 16 years before Falling Down) is one way of formulating the exact meaning of what qualifies 'a masterpiece'. But like I say, its a little like banging the head against the proverbial brick wall.
Talking of arguments about the brilliance of 70's cinema I'd love to get in an argument with johanlefourbe about why he's so wrong about The Exorcist, but I guess that's a whole different conversation and can of worms ha,ha;)
johanlefourbe
11 years, 1 month ago at Mar 12 16:57 - @Orpheus, nice one about 'The Exorcist', I'll get back to that in a minute ;)
I have read the review provided by wing6008 but it is not what you call an in-depth analysis. Basically, the guy described the plot during 3/4 of the text. The only piece of actual reviewing is the small bit where he said that it bored him. In this case, it is a matter of taste. Personally, I think it is a spellbinding movie but you might find it boring. It is kind of slow (marginal though), explaining why I gave it a 09/10 instead of a perfect 10/10.
I have read the review provided by wing6008 but it is not what you call an in-depth analysis. Basically, the guy described the plot during 3/4 of the text. The only piece of actual reviewing is the small bit where he said that it bored him. In this case, it is a matter of taste. Personally, I think it is a spellbinding movie but you might find it boring. It is kind of slow (marginal though), explaining why I gave it a 09/10 instead of a perfect 10/10.
Deleted user
Deleted
11 years, 1 month ago at Mar 12 23:02 - @Wing6008
Explain to me how Xanadont's statement is "exactly why Taxi Driver is again overrated"? To my mind, he's justifying why he (and, indirectly, the many who rally behind the film) considers it a masterpiece; he justifies hi opinion with specifics, which you and those agree with your original assertion have yet to do
It's fine to have an opinion, but if you can't justify it beyond citing another's review that takes two paragraphs just to say "there were some impressive things about it, but it's not without it's boring moments", you probably shouldn't start a thread about said opinion. And whining about subjectivity; really? Is there any greater cop out(I read "everyone has different opinions, can't you accept that"? as "I can't hold my own in an argument")
Whatever, that all criticisms of the film so far are so grossly threadbare speaks to a much greater degree the brilliance of the film than anything I could say
Explain to me how Xanadont's statement is "exactly why Taxi Driver is again overrated"? To my mind, he's justifying why he (and, indirectly, the many who rally behind the film) considers it a masterpiece; he justifies hi opinion with specifics, which you and those agree with your original assertion have yet to do
It's fine to have an opinion, but if you can't justify it beyond citing another's review that takes two paragraphs just to say "there were some impressive things about it, but it's not without it's boring moments", you probably shouldn't start a thread about said opinion. And whining about subjectivity; really? Is there any greater cop out(I read "everyone has different opinions, can't you accept that"? as "I can't hold my own in an argument")
Whatever, that all criticisms of the film so far are so grossly threadbare speaks to a much greater degree the brilliance of the film than anything I could say
Ruisperkele
11 years, 1 month ago at Mar 13 19:25 - Term "overrated" is overrated.
Art isn't competition. And what overrated even means? That because universal consensus is that it (i.e. Taxi Driver) is a masterpiece and one differs it makes the film overrated? How ignorant and self-centered is that, I ask. Overrated ain't even a valid argument as such. It's true, that it's harder to bash a classic, because there's a bigger opposition. But yet I haven't seen a single coherent analysis on this thread that tells me WHY Taxi Driver is supposedly overrated.
So until that, please don't get all pompous of how opinions are equal. Because they aren't. Opinions and their weight relies on the reasons behind it. And if there's none, the opinion is void of meaning as well. With all respect.
Art isn't competition. And what overrated even means? That because universal consensus is that it (i.e. Taxi Driver) is a masterpiece and one differs it makes the film overrated? How ignorant and self-centered is that, I ask. Overrated ain't even a valid argument as such. It's true, that it's harder to bash a classic, because there's a bigger opposition. But yet I haven't seen a single coherent analysis on this thread that tells me WHY Taxi Driver is supposedly overrated.
So until that, please don't get all pompous of how opinions are equal. Because they aren't. Opinions and their weight relies on the reasons behind it. And if there's none, the opinion is void of meaning as well. With all respect.
Deleted user
Deleted
11 years, 1 month ago at Mar 17 18:12 - taxi driver is one of the greatest movies of all time, even though raging bull and goodfellas are both better, it is still amazing.