Drive (2011)

Drive, 2011. Film. Directed by Nicolas WINDING REFN.
USA: Bold Films

Now for one of my favourite films. 

Originally intended as a fast-and-furious blockbuster starring Hugh Jackman, Drive tells the story of a Hollywood stuntman, mechanic and getaway driver as he ends up in more trouble than he can handle when he chooses to help his neighbour. It is clear that this is a film with a strong potential to be very Hollywood, fortunately it is far from it.

The Driver (Ryan Gosling) is an enigmatic character that we are never told anything about, not even his name. We are made to learn about The Driver through his facial expressions and his behaviour towards the other characters. Whilst his story evolves with quiet grace we learn about the dark side of his life but it is made evident through the introduction of his neighbour Irene (Carey Mulligan) that this mysterious man has a warm heart. The relationship between the two characters is based purely on tension; he is lonely but cannot commit due to his work and she is married. Though the sequence involving these two are predominately silent, our understanding comes from Gosling and Mulligan’s exceptional performance. From silent glances, small smiles and the simple way his eyes follow her as she moves around the room, words are just unnecessary.

Drive relies strongly on subtleties and shock. Throughout the film, non-diegetic sound is used sparingly, building the atmosphere only when it’s really needed. Unlike other films in the genre, car chases are few but extremely effective as we grow to feel for the silent protagonist and immerse ourselves into his dangerous life. Whilst there is no wall-to-wall action, violence drives the film on. From a heist gone wrong involving a femme fatale to an elevator sequence with The Driver, Irene and an assassin, the distressing scenes are filmed in such a careful way that you can’t ever look away for long.

Before this film, I hadn’t heard of the director however I think it’s safe to say that Nicolas Winding Refn deserved to win the Best Director award at Cannes, 2011. Right down to The Driver’s tooth pick, Refn has an exceptionally careful eye for detail that I find truly inspiring. Drive presents a strong juxtaposition between light and dark as it flicks between The Driver’s sunlit days with Irene and her son to driving through the streets in the middle of the night but the warm tones of Refn’s LA could not have been achieved without the inspiring cinematography by Newton Thomas Sigel. It is clear that every shot has been carefully thought out creating not only a stylish film but a visually beautiful film. Sigel manages to pick up Refn’s details perfectly and illustrates The Driver and his relationships flawlessly.

For me, Drive has been an exciting experience and I wish I could recommend it to everyone however it is undeniable that this film is not for anybody. If you’re looking for fast paced action this film definitely isn’t for you. Despite the violence, it can be a gentle film and it takes concentration in order to understand the characters and their motives but if you have the time and the patience Drive will not disappoint. It is slow and quiet but admirably beautiful.

Recommend to: Fans of crime films but not fast paced action

                            Anyone with a love for the actors

                            Someone with patience to sit and watch a quiet film but won’t mind the violence.