Drive

Release Date:Sep 16, 2011
Runtime:1 hr. 40 min.
Director:Nicolas Winding Refn
Cast:Ryan Gosling, Carey Mulligan, Bryan Cranston, Albert Brooks, Ron Perlman, Oscar Isaac, Christina Hendricks.

The saying 'less is more' may sound like a cliché but never has it been truer than in conjunction to arguably one of the best films of this year. Directed by Danish filmmaker Nicolas Refn, "Drive" is anything but your average car chase movie and here's why. First off, it has minimal dialogue. Almost to the point of being a silent film, it's the intense calm that speaks louder than words and delves into the unexpected. Furthermore, it has style. Whether it's attributing to classic film noirs or under the influence of contemporary directors, such as Michael Mann or the Coen Brothers, "Drive" is distinguishable enough to leave its trace. Moving slowly to build caliber and then amping up when it needs to, the contrast is stark but works to its advantage. Lastly, it has taste. The soundtrack is atypical for this type of film and embraces the mellowness that is comparable to its central character. Ryan Gosling is the epitome of cool when he's steering the wheel or pining from afar. His quiet charm and forthright acting have all the makings of a Hollywood legend, but it's his merciless attitude that will forever be embedded, and make for one of the most gruesome but notable scenes in recent history. Also battling typecasts is Albert Brooks as the central antagonist. With all jokes aside, Brooks is perfectly suited for this gangster role and just as sharp as his knife-wielding abilities. In any case, "Drive" can be considered an art form or a film open to opinions; you either like it or you don't. But either way, you'll sure be left talking about it and that's what matters.

Rating: 4½ stars