Adapted from a James Sallis novel of the same title, Nicolas Winding Refn's Drive is a stylish and ultra-violent thriller which harks back to the 80s through the use of a neon colour scheme, synth soundtrack and LA setting.
Ryan Gosling (Blue Valentine, Lars and the Real Girl, The Notebook) is only known to us as Driver...a strong, silent type who works as a mechanic and stuntman by day, and as a getaway driver at night. He becomes close to his neighbour Irene (Carey Mulligan) and her young son; so much so that after her husband is released from prison he gets himself entangled with the mob in order to protect them.
Although it has been called action, crime etc (elements of these genres are all included), I personally would consider Drive to be a love story, as all of Driver's actions are performed as a result of his feelings for Irene. Gosling has fantastic screen presence in a role which relies heavily on emotion shown through facial expressions and little on speech. We do not learn much about his character, not even his real name, but through several violent actions we see him take we do know he must be pretty crazy. However this does not stop the viewer from seeing him as a heroic figure...which might not have been the same had a different actor been cast. Mulligan is also excellent as usual, adding depth to a part which doesn't have a lot to do. The characters are what make the film. The plot can seem slow at times but this only adds to their development, and acts as a juxtaposition to the brutal killings...which by the way are all very brief but I had to cover my eyes a few times!
A special mention should also be given to its electronic score, written by Cliff Martinez, as well as the colourful, eye catching, cinematography. Combined these elements make up an extremely classy and cool piece of cinema.
Drive has been named the best film of 2011 by many, does it live up to the hype? Not entirely, but the performances and soundtrack give Refn's film an edge which most others from the last 12 months have been missing. 3.5/5
EXTRAS:
Q+A with the Director
Theatrical Trailer
TV Spot
Gallery
Whilst I obviously rate it far higher than you did, good review there Sophie. Out of interest, what was your favourite of 2011?
ReplyDeleteI think Melancholia and Black Swan were my favourites...though Black Swan seems so long ago now! Also really liked The Tree of Life, pre-ordered the Blu-Ray but still working up to watching it. I'm still catching up though...really want to see Take Shelter after reading your post.
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