10 Best Opening Scenes In Martin Scorsese Films

Scorsese’s films are remembered for their tendency to be brutal and extremely violent. Yet for all of the director’s various gangster classics, it is in fact the story of a lonesome and enraged war veteran that remains the most disturbing of his entire filmography.

The gritty and suspenseful psychological thriller stars Robert De Niro in a career defining role as the troubled Travis Bickle. Set in the gloomy New York streets of the 1970s, Taxi Driver is one of the most notable films of the New Hollywood era and today is recognised as one of the most influential films of all time.

Transitioning from the epic title sequence and haunting Bernard Herrmann score, Taxi Driver opens with a character analysis of the complexed Travis Bickle. The scene sets the tone and mood of the entire film as Travis applies for a job as a cab driver.

During an impromptu interview with the company owner, Bickle hides all signs of potential concerns, stating that he was prepared to work, “Anytime, anywhere”.

Travis is able to secure the job due to his service in the Marines, and so begins his new career as a taxi driver.