Written by Merissa Mapes
Modified & Updated: 05 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
Welcome to the fascinating world of “Who’s That Knocking At My Door,” a movie that has captured the hearts of film enthusiasts around the globe. Directed by Martin Scorsese and released in 1967, this iconic film marked the beginning of Scorsese’s illustrious career in the world of cinema. “Who’s That Knocking At My Door” explores themes of love, redemption, and identity, immersing viewers in a thought-provoking journey through the streets of New York City.
In this article, we will delve into 38 intriguing facts about “Who’s That Knocking At My Door” that will enhance your appreciation for this cinematic masterpiece. From behind-the-scenes tales to trivia about the cast and crew, get ready to uncover the secrets and stories that make this film an enduring classic.
Key Takeaways:
- “Who’s That Knocking At My Door” is a groundbreaking film that marked Martin Scorsese’s directorial debut and explored themes of Catholic guilt and redemption, showcasing his raw talent and visionary storytelling.
- The movie’s gritty portrayal of urban life and its influence on independent filmmakers make it a significant milestone in Scorsese’s career, reflecting the struggles of young adulthood and challenging traditional gender roles.
Who’s That Knocking At My Door marked Martin Scorsese’s directorial debut.
Released in 1967, this film was Scorsese’s first feature-length movie.
The screenplay for the movie was written by Martin Scorsese himself.
Before making a name for himself as a director, Scorsese started his career as a screenwriter.
The film stars Harvey Keitel in his first major role.
Keitel’s powerful performance in the movie helped establish him as a talented actor.
Who’s That Knocking At My Door explores themes of Catholic guilt and redemption.
The movie delves into the psychological struggles of its protagonist with religious themes at its core.
The film was originally titled “I Call First” but was later changed to “Who’s That Knocking At My Door”.
The new title better reflects the mysterious and ambiguous nature of the story.
Who’s That Knocking At My Door was shot on a shoestring budget of $75,000.
Despite its limited resources, the film showcases Scorsese’s creative vision and directorial talent.
The movie was filmed on location in the streets of New York City.
This gritty setting contributes to the realistic portrayal of the characters’ lives.
Who’s That Knocking At My Door was initially intended to be a student film.
However, it garnered attention and was eventually released theatrically.
The film features Scorsese’s signature use of long tracking shots and innovative camera techniques.
This visual style would become a trademark of his later works.
The movie received mixed reviews upon its release.
Some critics praised its raw energy and authenticity, while others found it disjointed.
Who’s That Knocking At My Door explores the complexities of relationships and masculinity.
The film delves into the protagonist’s struggles with love, loyalty, and his own identity.
It was during the making of this movie that Scorsese met actor Harvey Keitel for the first time.
This would mark the beginning of a fruitful collaboration between the two.
The movie’s soundtrack features a mix of popular songs from the 1960s.
The music enhances the emotional impact of the scenes and captures the spirit of the era.
Who’s That Knocking At My Door was inspired by Scorsese’s own experiences growing up in New York City.
The movie draws from his personal encounters and observations.
The film showcases Scorsese’s deep knowledge and love for cinema.
References to classic movies and filmmakers can be found throughout the story.
Who’s That Knocking At My Door portrays the gritty underworld of New York City.
The characters navigate through the streets, revealing the harsh realities of urban life.
The movie’s nonlinear narrative structure adds an element of mystery and intrigue.
Scorsese skillfully weaves together different timelines, keeping the audience engaged and guessing.
Who’s That Knocking At My Door explores the concept of moral dilemmas.
The characters are faced with difficult choices that test their principles and values.
The film serves as a study of human emotions and complexities.
Each character is multi-dimensional, with layered motivations and desires.
Who’s That Knocking At My Door captures the spirit of the 1960s counterculture.
It reflects the social and political upheaval of the era through its characters’ struggles.
The movie received a limited release initially but gained a cult following over the years.
It has since been recognized as a significant milestone in Scorsese’s career.
Who’s That Knocking At My Door was highly influential for independent filmmakers.
Its raw and unfiltered storytelling paved the way for a new wave of cinema.
The film’s realistic portrayal of urban life became a trademark of Scorsese’s later works.
He would continue to explore similar themes in movies like Mean Streets and Taxi Driver.
Who’s That Knocking At My Door was edited by Thelma Schoonmaker, who would later become Scorsese’s long-time collaborator.
Their partnership would result in numerous critically acclaimed films.
The movie showcases Scorsese’s attention to detail and meticulous craftsmanship.
Every shot is carefully composed, contributing to the overall visual storytelling.
Who’s That Knocking At My Door examines the impact of societal expectations on personal identity.
The protagonist grapples with traditional values and his desire for personal freedom.
The film’s black-and-white cinematography adds a timeless and nostalgic quality.
It accentuates the contrast between light and shadow, creating a visually striking experience.
Who’s That Knocking At My Door features scenes of intense emotional and psychological tension.
The performances and dialogue contribute to the palpable sense of unease.
The movie showcases Scorsese’s exploration of Catholic iconography and symbolism.
Religious imagery is woven throughout the narrative, adding depth and meaning to the story.
Who’s That Knocking At My Door was rediscovered by a wider audience years after its release.
It has since been analyzed and studied as part of Scorsese’s filmography.
The film’s title derives from a line in an old blues song called “I Hear You Knocking”.
This musical reference adds a layer of significance to the story’s themes.
Who’s That Knocking At My Door reflects the struggles of young adulthood and finding one’s place in the world.
It resonates with viewers who have experienced similar challenges and self-discovery.
The movie’s dialogue is authentic and raw, reflecting the language of the streets.
It adds to the realism of the narrative and the characters’ experiences.
Who’s That Knocking At My Door explores the boundaries of intimacy and sexual awakening.
The protagonist’s relationships are depicted with honesty and vulnerability.
The film raises questions about the nature of forgiveness and redemption.
The characters grapple with their past mistakes and strive to find inner peace.
Who’s That Knocking At My Door showcases Scorsese’s use of vivid and memorable imagery.
Each frame is carefully composed to evoke certain emotions and convey the story visually.
The movie’s exploration of masculinity challenged traditional gender roles.
It offered a nuanced portrayal of male vulnerability and emotional fragility.
Who’s That Knocking At My Door serves as a testament to Scorsese’s talent and visionary storytelling.
It laid the foundation for his legendary career in the world of cinema.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Who’s That Knocking At My Door” is an iconic movie that showcases Martin Scorsese’s directorial debut and explores themes of love, morality, and identity. The film serves as a significant milestone in Scorsese’s career and provides a glimpse into his unique filmmaking style that would become synonymous with his later works. The powerful performances by Harvey Keitel and Zina Bethune, along with the gritty portrayal of New York City, contribute to the overall raw and authentic feel of the movie. With its thought-provoking narrative and memorable moments, “Who’s That Knocking At My Door” continues to captivate audiences and solidify its status as a classic in cinema history.
FAQs
1. Who directed “Who’s That Knocking At My Door?”
Martin Scorsese directed “Who’s That Knocking At My Door.” It was his directorial debut and marked the beginning of his illustrious career in filmmaking.
2. When was “Who’s That Knocking At My Door” released?
The movie was released in 1967. It premiered at several film festivals and received critical acclaim for its innovative storytelling and compelling performances.
3. What is the main theme of the movie?
The main themes explored in “Who’s That Knocking At My Door” include love, morality, and identity. The film delves into the complexities of relationships and the struggles individuals face in reconciling their own desires with societal expectations.
4. Who are the main actors in the movie?
Harvey Keitel and Zina Bethune are the main actors in “Who’s That Knocking At My Door.” They deliver impressive performances that bring the characters to life and add depth to the narrative.
5. What impact did “Who’s That Knocking At My Door” have on Martin Scorsese’s career?
“Who’s That Knocking At My Door” served as a launching pad for Martin Scorsese’s career. The film showcased his unique directorial style and laid the foundation for the themes and techniques he would explore in his later works, cementing his place as one of the greatest directors in cinema history.
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