Martin Scorsese’s intrusive insistence on his abstract, metaphysical theme—the possibility of modern sainthood—marks this 1973 film, his first to attract critical notice, as still somewhat immature, yet the acting and editing have such an original, tumultuous force that the picture is completely gripping. Harvey Keitel is the young mobster on the rise; Robert De Niro is his brutish, irresponsible nemesis, whom he’s determined to love. With Amy Robinson, Cesare Danova, and George Memmoli.
Mean Streets
R • 1 hour 52 min • 1974