By 
Harvey Keitel has an extraordinary record of working with first-time directors who went on to have huge Hollywood careers. The list includes Martin Scorsese’s Who’s That Knocking At My Door (1967), Ridley Scott’s The Duellists (1977), Paul Schrader’s Blue Collar (1978), and Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs (1992).
He also starred in Abel Ferrara’s first effort as a writer-director – Bad Lieutenant – although Ferrara had directed features before. And appeared in the debut directorial efforts of James Toback and Vietnamese-American Tony Bui.
In a conversation with Timothy Rhys of Moviemaker, Keitel reflected on the process of working with first-time directors, emphasising the importance of the initial interaction with the script or concept. He noted that his decision to collaborate often hinges on the impression he forms of the person behind the project, whether through reading the script or hearing the idea.
Harvey Keitel in Ridley Scott’s The Duellists.
Keitel’s inclination toward writer-directors was evident, acknowledging that he has frequently gravitated towards such partnerships. However, he clarified that while the director may not always be the writer, the key factor lies in the personal connection and feeling he gets from the individual. He said that not every first-time or experienced director necessarily fits the bill, underlining the significance of his experience with the material.
In an interview with Variety, when queried about his expectations from a director, Keitel humorously quipped, “To shut the f–k up and turn on the camera.” Yet, he swiftly tempered the jest with humility, expressing gratitude for the remarkable individuals he has encountered throughout his career. Keitel conveyed that any semblance of ingratitude on his part would be reprehensible, recognising the privilege of his professional journey.
A great actor who brings something special to each role
Harvey Keitel in Martin Scorsese’s Taxi Driver
In the early stages of Taxi Driver, Scorsese initially envisioned Keitel in the role of the campaign worker, a part that ultimately went to Albert Brooks. However, Keitel was drawn to the character of the pimp, despite its limited dialogue at the outset.
Drawing inspiration from a real-life encounter with a pimp in New York’s Hell’s Kitchen, Keitel embarked on a transformative journey. Collaborating for two weeks in the basement of the Actors Studio, he immersed himself in the world of pimps and their relationships with their charges. Guided by his mentor, who claimed to be an ex-pimp, Keitel delved deep into the intricacies of the role, including the notion of genuine affection for the women under his character’s sway.
“He taught me how to dance with the girl. First I played the girl and he was the guy, and then we switched roles. He taught me how to be a pimp. At one point he says, ‘Oh, and you love the girl.’ I said: ‘Yeah but you don’t really love her.’ He said: “No, you love her.” He repeated it several times. I still get the chills today remembering it. And he had a point. I showed the improvisation scenes to Marty and Paul Schrader and they incorporated them into the script.”
Additionally, Keitel brought personal touches to the character’s appearance, such as long hair, a hat, and platform shoes, which significantly altered his appearance. So dramatic was the transformation that even Keitel’s own father failed to recognise him when he visited the set.
Harvey Keitel’s best films
The actor’s career spans decades, marked by a remarkable array of roles that showcase his versatility and talent. Some of Harvey Keitel’s best films include 1991’s Bugsy in which he adds weight to the supporting cast as Mickey Cohen, infusing the infamous Los Angeles crime figure with gravitas despite his own ruggedly handsome appearance.
Elsewhere, in 1973’s Mean Streets, Keitel’s portrayal of Charlie provides the dramatic core of Martin Scorsese’s breakthrough film, navigating the complexities of loyalty, guilt, and redemption. And for Scorsese again, Taxi Driver showcases Keitel at his most chilling as Matthew “Sport” Higgins, a despicable pimp navigating the seedy underbelly of New York City.
Arguably, his best work came in 1992 with Bad Lieutenant. The film stands as a tour de force for Keitel, portraying a morally bankrupt police lieutenant with soul-crushing angst and raw vulnerability, leaving an indelible impression on audiences.
Top 10 Films Of Harvey Keitel
Since making his screen debut in 1967, Harvey Keitel has emerged as one of America’s most intriguing actors. And while he continues to deliver the goods, it’s arguable that the 1990s was the decade in which he truly peaked.
Comments