Taxi Driver released

Taxi Driver is a landmark film, set in a gritty, crime-ridden New York City after the Vietnam War. It follows Travis Bickle, a troubled taxi driver played by Robert De Niro, whose growing isolation and instability lead him toward violence. The movie explores loneliness, alienation, obsession, and the search for meaning. Disturbed by the crime, poverty, and moral decay he sees around him, Travis becomes increasingly isolated and obsessed with "cleaning up" the city. After a failed attempt to connect with a political campaign worker, he spirals into paranoia and violence. His attention turns to rescuing a young runaway, Iris, from exploitation. The film builds toward a bloody confrontation that leaves Travis both wounded and unexpectedly celebrated as a hero.

The film remains one of the most influential portrayals of 1970s New York City and helped cement Scorsese and De Niro as defining figures in American cinema.