Sunday, February 26, 2012

Drive (2011)

"Drive" was released in 2011(on September 16th my birthday) and was directed by Nicolas Winding Refn. It's about a hollywood stuntman driver, who also works as a mechanic and a getaway driver at night, who gets involved in his neighbors affairs and finds himself obligated to protect her. It stars Ryan Gosling in a role in which he barely speaks. 


Whats great about "Drive" is that it is wholly original in it's approach. The film uses minimal dialogue to move each scene. First time watching you may even laugh during certain scenes because you can't believe they aren't talking more. But this is what film is all about. Film is visual and the visuals drive this film home. I have to commend the director for this because it's nearly impossible to find nowadays. 

Ryan Gosling gives a tremendous performance as the driver. His puppy dog eyes and small grin which he brings out occasionally create a deeply complex character. Like I said, there's not much talking, but emotions and feelings are conveyed through facial expression and mannerisms by Gosling. He really is a great actor and not just a pretty boy. (Cause everyone knows him from The Notebook) Another great performance and, in my opinion, an oscar snub was the one given by Albert Brooks. He is absolutely ruthless and calm all at the same time. C'mon academy, the guy was great.

Another highlight of this film was the soundtrack. It may have been the best of the year. Not only are the songs great but they enhance the scenes in which they are in. When music and film can coincide and evoke an emotion in the audience and push the story forward at the same time, it's a special thing. 

"Drive" was one of the best films of the year and unfortunately one of the most overlooked. Great performances, great directing and great music; that's enough of a reason to see it. Let me know what you think and you can try your hardest but the music will get stuck in your head. 

Enjoy. 

Here's the IMDB page:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0780504/
Here's the trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWX34ShfcsE

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