Mean Streets (1973)

Mean Streets (1973) Movie Review – A Gritty Dive into the Underbelly of New York City

Mean Streets (1973), directed by Martin Scorsese, is a seminal American crime drama that marks the beginning of Scorsese’s exploration of the gritty, raw world of urban life and the moral dilemmas faced by those entangled in it. Set against the backdrop of New York City’s Little Italy, the film is an intensely personal and visceral look at the lives of young men navigating the perils of crime, loyalty, and redemption. This review will examine the film’s plot, themes, direction, performances, and its availability for streaming, particularly in the United States.

Plot Overview

Mean Streets follows the lives of two friends, Charlie (Harvey Keitel) and Johnny Boy (Robert De Niro), who are deeply embedded in the world of small-time crime in New York City’s Little Italy. Charlie, a devout Catholic, struggles with his religious guilt and his ambition to rise within the local mafia ranks, which is complicated by his friendship with the reckless and self-destructive Johnny Boy.

Johnny Boy is a young, volatile man who owes money to nearly everyone in the neighborhood and constantly finds himself in trouble. Despite Johnny’s erratic behavior and his tendency to make enemies, Charlie feels a sense of responsibility toward him, which drives much of the film’s tension.

As Charlie tries to balance his desire for respect and power with his loyalty to Johnny Boy, he is pulled deeper into the dangerous and violent world of organized crime. The film’s narrative is less about plot and more about character development and the exploration of the psychological and moral conflicts faced by its protagonists.

Themes and Emotional Impact

Mean Streets is rich with themes that delve into the complexities of urban life and the human condition:

1. Guilt and Redemption: A central theme in the film is Charlie’s struggle with guilt, stemming from his Catholic upbringing, and his desire for redemption. His internal conflict is a driving force in the narrative, as he tries to reconcile his religious beliefs with his actions in the criminal underworld.
2. Loyalty and Betrayal: The film explores the theme of loyalty, particularly in the relationship between Charlie and Johnny Boy. Charlie’s sense of loyalty to Johnny Boy often puts him in difficult situations, and the tension between loyalty and self-preservation is a key element of the story.
3. Moral Ambiguity: Mean Streets is a study in moral ambiguity, with characters who are neither entirely good nor entirely bad. The film presents a world where moral lines are blurred, and the choices the characters make are influenced by their environment and circumstances.
4. Urban Life and Violence: The film’s depiction of New York City’s Little Italy is gritty and realistic, capturing the violence and danger of life in the urban underworld. The environment is almost a character in itself, shaping the lives and destinies of those who inhabit it.

The emotional impact of Mean Streets is powerful, with a narrative that immerses viewers in the chaotic and often brutal world of its characters. The film’s exploration of complex themes and its intense character dynamics create a viewing experience that is both thought-provoking and deeply engaging.

Direction and Cinematic Style

Martin Scorsese’s direction in Mean Streets is a defining element of the film’s success. Scorsese brings a raw energy to the film, using dynamic camera work, rapid editing, and a rock ‘n’ roll soundtrack to create a sense of immediacy and tension. The use of handheld cameras and natural lighting adds to the film’s gritty realism, making the viewer feel as though they are part of the chaotic world depicted on screen.

The film is also notable for its innovative use of music, with Scorsese incorporating songs from artists like The Rolling Stones and The Ronettes to enhance the emotional and thematic depth of the narrative. The soundtrack is integral to the film’s atmosphere, reflecting the inner lives of the characters and the mood of the scenes.

Scorsese’s deep personal connection to the story is evident in the film’s attention to detail and its authentic portrayal of the Italian-American community in New York City. Mean Streets is a film that feels lived-in and real, with every element contributing to its overall impact.

Performances

The performances in Mean Streets are exceptional, with Harvey Keitel and Robert De Niro delivering some of the most memorable work of their careers.

• Harvey Keitel: As Charlie, Keitel gives a nuanced and introspective performance, portraying a man torn between his ambitions, his religious convictions, and his loyalty to his friend. Keitel’s portrayal captures the internal conflict of a character who is constantly struggling to do what he believes is right, even as he is drawn deeper into a life of crime.
• Robert De Niro: De Niro’s portrayal of Johnny Boy is electrifying and chaotic, embodying the reckless and unpredictable nature of his character. Johnny Boy is a man who lives on the edge, and De Niro’s performance is filled with intensity and charisma, making the character both infuriating and compelling.

The chemistry between Keitel and De Niro is a highlight of the film, with their interactions driving much of the narrative and adding depth to their characters’ relationship. The supporting cast, including actors like David Proval and Amy Robinson, also deliver strong performances that enhance the film’s authenticity and emotional impact.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Mean Streets was widely praised by critics for its innovative direction, strong performances, and realistic portrayal of urban life. It is often cited as the film that launched Martin Scorsese’s career and established his reputation as one of the most important American filmmakers of his generation.

The film’s influence can be seen in the many crime dramas that followed, with its style and themes resonating in the work of countless directors. Mean Streets is regarded as a classic of American cinema and a key film in the development of the crime genre.

Where to Watch Mean Streets (1973) Online

For those interested in watching Mean Streets, the film is available on several streaming platforms and rental services, particularly in the United States:

1. Amazon Prime Video: Mean Streets can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video, with rental prices typically starting at $3.99 and purchase options available for around $14.99.
2. Apple TV: The film is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV, offering high-definition streaming for viewers.
3. Google Play Movies & TV: Mean Streets can be rented or purchased on Google Play Movies & TV, providing flexibility for viewers on various devices.
4. YouTube Movies: The film is accessible on YouTube Movies for rent or purchase, offering an easy streaming option.
5. HBO Max: The film may also be available on HBO Max as part of its library of classic films, depending on regional licensing agreements.

Final Verdict

Mean Streets is a raw, gritty, and deeply personal film that marks the beginning of Martin Scorsese’s exploration of crime, morality, and the human condition. With powerful performances by Harvey Keitel and Robert De Niro, the film is a compelling study of loyalty, guilt, and the complexities of life in New York City’s underworld.

Available on multiple streaming platforms, Mean Streets is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and those interested in exploring the early work of one of America’s greatest directors. Whether revisiting this classic or discovering it for the first time, Mean Streets offers a gripping and unforgettable cinematic experience.