View Full Version : Drive
The Prestige
09-14-11, 08:59 AM
http://flickfeast.co.uk/wp-content/themes/yamidoo/scripts/timthumb.php?src=http://flickfeast.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Drive2.jpg&w=390&h=600&zc=1
Are you fan of 70's car themed action films? 80's John Hughes' teeny bobs? Or how about violent 90's neo noir thrillers? If you said yes to any one of those questions then do yourself a kindness and please watch Nicolas Winding Refn's Drive.
While the general plot outline may sound frustratingly familiar, do NOT be fooled, this is not Gone In 60' Seconds or a Fast & Furious close, this is pretty muched established early on in the film where ultra pink opening titles take place over beautiful tracking shots of the L.A. night time skyline whilst a tense techno beat pulsates throughout. Subsequent shots within the scene show neo lights bouncing off Ryan Gosling's handsome mug. This is neo noir framing at it's finest. This is the world of Drive.
Set in contemporary L.A., this is the story of the nameless driver (Gosling) moonlighting by day as a stuntman/mechanic and by night as a suave getaway driver for wrong uns looking to make a bit of cash. This type of lifestyle has been going on for more than half a decade for Mr Driver, but then cute young mother Irene catches his gaze (a suitably vulnerbale Carey Mulligan) and, as you can imagine, he bonds with her and her son. Without giving to much away, her estranged husband comes back into their lives, and thats when Drive reaches for the 2nd gear.
Again, the plotting is very typical and it's fair to say it's cliched, but Refn doesn't do cliched. He takes the familiar and turns it on it's head, which is exactly what he does with all of the aspects of what is potentially his best film to date. The framing of the warm, earlier scenes between Driver and Irene are inspired. There is a surprising amount of attention to detail in even the most mundane moments, and Refn's electro, 80's music cues are inspired. Most of romance between The Gosling and Mulligan is conveyed in refreshingly subtle ways. Sweet smiles and gazes that hold on longer than they normally would help warm you to the characters, even if Mulligan is a bit underused afterwards.
But when Drive hits the higher gears, that's when you get a feel for the parts that made Refn excited about making this picture. When the **** goes down, the tension rarely lets up. There are homages to Mann in the ways that Refn cranks up the tension, with moments of surprising and gory violence that gives the film it's edge.
But it's all done very tastefully (if that's possible) and one excruciating beating is juxtopositioned with one of the most liveliest screen kisses I have ever seen. I remember reading an interview in which Refn looked to the head smashing scene in Irreversible in order to get the desired effect.
The supporting players have fun in their roles. The loveable Ron Pearlman does sleazy and funny with his turn as one half of a corrupt owner of a Pizza parlour. The other half is Albert Brooks, who seemingly down to earth demeanor completely disappears when he decides to stick a fork in it. It's a pretty sophisticated performance that screams subtle menance. Christina Hendricks is completely wasted in a minor role, and it's obvious that Winding Refn only got her involved because he fancies with her as one can tell by the way she is framed, but at least she manages to looks ludicrously gorgeous in her very few mins of screen time.
Besides Refn's ultra slick direction, however, the main star of the show is the Eastwood homage himself, Driver. I've said a lot about Gosling and what i'm about to say really isn't much different. The cool retro poster itself reveals him as an instantly iconic figure with that scorpion symboled silver jacket and skinny jeans. He even has a toothpick just to put the icing on the cake. There are shades of guys like Travis Bickle, Phillip Marlowe, many characters of Steve McQueen/Paul Newman in his effortlessly masculine and decent natured performance as a man who finding himself in increasingly brutal situations for his latent love of Irene. Gosling has very little dialogue in the film, so a lot of his expression comes from facial gestures and body language. He looks a little more athletic and as the film goes along, you get an understanding that the character has very few limits. All this without any backstory, name, age, etc.
In fact, if there is one thing I found frustrating about Drive, it's the fact that we don't get to know the character at besides the fact that he likes likes cars, has a moral code of honour and will do anything to protect Irene and her son. I get that it adds to the mystique of the character, but a little get-to-know would have been quite nice.
I also felt that even though I really enjoyed set up, it takes a little too long to get to thick of things. This film is about 100mins, that's not even two hours. Stripping down 10 mins of the early scenes by 10 mins would not have hurt at all. The actual end sequence feels a little rushed, but it doesn't hinder the film that badly.
Otherwise, watch this please. Refn has a new muse in Gosling, and the two will work together at least two more times in the next couple of years with Only God Forgives, a thai boxing film and a remake of Logan's Run, which, from a stylistic standpoint, could be brilliant with Refn at the helm and Gosling starring.
But for now, take a Drive and just allow it to take you to any place you want. God that sentence was ****ing pathetic :D! Anyways, you guys get what I mean, I think. But seriously, watch and enjoy.
bouncingbrick
09-14-11, 09:33 AM
I may actually go to the theater for this one! Highest praise I can give a film I haven't seen yet!
The Prestige
09-14-11, 09:43 AM
Updated
honeykid
09-14-11, 07:51 PM
Looking forward to it, mate. :)
filmgirlinterrupted
09-18-11, 08:11 PM
I quite enjoyed "Drive." Ryan Gosling really stole the show, I was impressed with his performance for sure. Also, I absolutely loved the music in this film, it really added something special to the movie. I've seen Refn's other movies, "Valhalla Rising" and "Bronson," and I have to say that I enjoyed "Drive" the most. Although it was slowly-paced and a bit lacking on the actual driving sequences, I thought it was pretty good. I wouldn't watch it again, it's the kind of movie that you watch once and you say to yourself, 'OK, that was pretty cool. Next.' Overall, though, it was a good watch.
7.5/10
The Prestige
09-19-11, 01:45 PM
The music was indeed wonderful. Great cues, and a good transitions between diegetic and non diegetic. I imagine the soundtrack is a must have for 80's music lovers. Theres quite a bit of driving in the film, just not actual car chases and stuff. Some of Driver's antics reminded me of a goodie Stuntman Mike, so an extended scene of the bit where pursues Ron Pearlman in his vehicle would have been nice, but otherwise, I consider those minor issues.
I have been thinking about this film for quite a bit after last week and if I had my way I would put it in contention for a academy award. I don't want to hype it up too much incase people's expectations become unrealistic, but it is definitely the best film of the year thus far, imo. It's beautiful in all aspects, even the violent imagery. I'm really excited to hear what other Mofo's think of it.
MovieMan8877445
09-19-11, 07:45 PM
I saw it yesterday and loved it. I would say more, but I'm a little busy right now.
filmgirlinterrupted
09-19-11, 07:59 PM
I have to admit, I'm not going to be one of the MoFos who will be *raving* about "Drive." Don't get me wrong, it was an above-average film that was engaging enough. I'm just not jumping up and down about it. Take away the awesome score/music & take away Ryan Gosling: you'd have a 6/10 or lower.
I could tell that A LOT of people leaving the theater were disappointed. "Drive" was marketed as a sort of indie homage to "Gone in 60 Seconds," and I think that most people probably bought their tickets under the impression that it would be "Fast & Furious" for grown ups. As soon as I saw Refn's name attached to the film, I knew it would end up being more artistic and cerebral (vis-a-vis "Bronson")...so since that's what I was expecting, I wasn't as miffed as some of the other folks.
I wasn't disappointed by "Drive," - I pretty much knew what I was in for. It was just missing that little *extra* something, you know? I wasn't emotionally invested, and I really wanted to be. It's almost as if it was too cool.
Nausicaä
09-19-11, 08:03 PM
impression that it would be "Fast & Furious" for grown ups.
If people got that from the trailers, they must be seeing things... I don't get a Fast and Furious for adults vibe from any of the trailers/clips at all.
filmgirlinterrupted
09-19-11, 08:05 PM
I don't get a Fast and Furious for adults vibe from any of the trailers/clips at all.
You don't, but I'm saying the regular population of humans, the ones who don't spend countless hours on Movie Forums, that THOSE people probably got that vibe. Know what I mean?
Are you fan of 70's car themed action films?
Yes. Though this was a good movie, it was not reminiscent of "70's car themed action films". Barely any driving scenes at all. I was hoping for another Duel.
The Prestige
09-20-11, 12:13 PM
Well the little drive scenes there were were clearly inspired by 70's car action fests, and Refn even confirmed this in various interviews.
I can somewhat see why some might be disappointed. I too pretty much knew what to expect although I did think there would be more car chases too, but it doesn't really take much away from the film. It's extremely well made, though and I think it's probably more cerebral than I initially thought. I had to google the 'Scorpion & Frog' reference Driver makes, and it's pretty significant to the film's themes and to what drives the Driver to do what he does. That's why I think that filmgirl and others may benefit from repeat viewings, because there is even more to the film once the layers are stripped.
I could tell that A LOT of people leaving the theater were disappointed
This is the impression I got too. I felt that the audience I saw it with didn't know what to make of it. It's one of those films, I guess.
filmgirlinterrupted
09-20-11, 03:11 PM
I had to google the 'Scorpion & Frog' reference Driver makes, and it's pretty significant to the film's themes and to what drives the Driver to do what he does. That's why I think that filmgirl and others may benefit from repeat viewings, because there is even more to the film once the layers are stripped.
I picked up on the Scorpion & Frog reference about halfway through and I understood the point of it fairly clearly.
The problem for me is, I wouldn't watch it again. Not because I hated it, but because there's nothing more for me to extract from the film. It was well done in that the overlying "point" of the movie was reached by the end of it. There's really nothing to debate or ponder - at least for me. So with that said, I'm satisfied with the 1 watch.
I still don't know all that much about the specifics and feel of the film, but if anyone has seen Walter Hill's existential thriller The Driver (1978), can they give me some kind of compare/contrast with that? Holden?
03mj2808
09-20-11, 05:47 PM
I'm glad someone has a thread about this, there's been quite a lot of buzz around this film, I'm excited to go see it as I'm a big fan of both Christina Hendricks and Carey Mulligan. Plus it has 92% on Rotten Tomatoes so it's bound to be good! Has anyone seen it?
filmgirlinterrupted
09-20-11, 08:19 PM
I'm a big fan of both Christina Hendricks and Carey Mulligan.
Christina Hendricks is barely in it, just an FYI.
Plus it has 92% on Rotten Tomatoes so it's bound to be good!
It has a score of 79 on Meta Critic, which I find to be a fairer number.
Has anyone seen it?
Have you read through this thread?
Linus41
09-24-11, 03:22 PM
looks like a Jason Statham movie to me. Only without him :p
thracian dawg
09-24-11, 04:50 PM
It's important to underscore in no way is the driver a "noble" outlaw.
His little speech about 5 minutes of heaven, is not a declaration of a strict moral code, but the total absence of one. The time restrictions he places on jobs limits them to smash and grabs heists. But what if something went wrong during in that period? What if someone was killed, or a whole mess of people were murdered and he helped them evade capture. So much for being a nice guy.
The film works because of the flip, instead of being the vicious perp, the driver becomes the hunted victim. He's cheated by dishonest people. (Wow, in the criminal underworld no less---go figger!) Also, this film is extremely well cast, it gains a lot by putting sympathetic actors in unsympathetic roles.
I still don't know all that much about the specifics and feel of the film, but if anyone has seen Walter Hill's existential thriller The Driver (1978), can they give me some kind of compare/contrast with that?
The driver (1978) is in a different, better realm all altogether---it's an existential thriller disguised as an action film. In "Drive", Gosling is the man with no name---so death can't find him. In "The Driver", the whole cast is without name. The only existential comparison is the Bryan Cranston character, who openly admits he's been cheating the driver since day one. Ha ha.
Used Future
09-24-11, 05:00 PM
I still don't know all that much about the specifics and feel of the film, but if anyone has seen Walter Hill's existential thriller The Driver (1978), can they give me some kind of compare/contrast with that? Holden?
As a fan of Walter Hill's The Driver I've been wondering the same thing, and think thematically and stylistically Drive looks like a cross between that and To Live and Die in L.A. which is equally great. I've also heard comparisons to Michael Mann's excellent Thief which can only be a good thing. Will check it out this week.
MovieMad16
09-24-11, 05:03 PM
I'm keen to see this.
nicky01
09-27-11, 07:31 AM
Lol! now it is available to watch online at most of streaming site. I've enjoyed this great release movie after it's release in USA theater. If you've missed it, then should go get download this brilliant movie through any good Hollywood movie entertainment source.
The Prestige
09-27-11, 10:02 AM
As a fan of Walter Hill's The Driver I've been wondering the same thing, and think thematically and stylistically Drive looks like a cross between that and To Live and Die in L.A. which is equally great. I've also heard comparisons to Michael Mann's excellent Thief which can only be a good thing. Will check it out this week.
Yeah, the use of the city and stuff, especially the lights during the night sequences are very Mannesque. I've not seen The Driver, but i'm certainly curious about it now.
Loved it, most likely movie of the year for me. I'll write more later.
5
MovieMad16
10-09-11, 05:40 PM
Just came back from it. Absolutely loved it. Probably agree that its the best film of the year.
earlsmoviepicks
10-24-11, 06:11 PM
Just saw this. Overall enjoyable, but the last 1/3rd lagged for me, and Albert Brooks as a knife-wielding bad guy should've dripped with blood, but it just dripped with wrong sauce.
filmgirlinterrupted
10-24-11, 06:24 PM
Just saw this. Overall enjoyable, but the last 1/3rd lagged for me, and Albert Brooks as a knife-wielding bad guy should've dripped with blood, but it just dripped with wrong sauce.
LOL! I couldn't stop myself from hearing a Pixar clown fish :p
ollanik
10-24-11, 07:59 PM
overrated
The Prestige
10-25-11, 11:53 AM
Just saw this. Overall enjoyable, but the last 1/3rd lagged for me, and Albert Brooks as a knife-wielding bad guy should've dripped with blood, but it just dripped with wrong sauce.
Really?? I thought he conveyed just about the right amount of menace. It was an underplayed performance for the most part, and suitably so, specially when you do see how high his capacity for violence can be.
earlsmoviepicks
10-25-11, 04:25 PM
He did a good enough job, and it was interesting to see him in this part. Despite the novelty though, I don't think he has the range to be a knife-wielding villain. He had to overcome some major typecasting hurdles for this part, and IMO they played it too safe with this character. Hell, if I see a great comedian playing a vicious killer in a breakout role, I want him to be freakin insane.
cinemaafficionado
02-12-12, 09:57 AM
Well, I just saw it. I like Gosling. He is a good method actor but in this movie he was a little too cool, his responses were a little too sedated, except when he was stomping the guy into a mashed potato in the elevator. In those situations, girls either run and get scarred of their " friend " or they kick back and enjoy the show. Our heroine did neither except get miscast for the part.
The story is kind of flawed from beginning: boy meets girl, boy nicely falls for girl, but oops gir's husband is just released from prison, no problem, boy makes friends with husband, boy helps girl and husband, so that they could go off happily into the sunset. How very altruistic but very doubtfully real.
Even the scene in the elevator. Gosling is standing with the girl aware that a character in the same elevator is about to do him egrigious bodily harm and what does he do? He is so cool, he turns his back on the guy and embraces the girl ( tying up both of his hands in the process )for a long lingering kiss. Of course, the other guy, I guess out of respect, waits for Gosling to finish making out and allows him to turn so he can defend himself.. Come on........
Other than that I enjoyed the movie. Well, no, I thought the ending sucked. I mean, here's this cool driver that so quickly turns into an adept killer but comletely let's his guard down with the last man standing .
Albert Brooks suprised me a bit with his meaness. He was very good bu Gosling was able to take care of him, no problem, but guess what, he just leaves a million dollars
besides the body and drives off wounded into the sunset. Talk about people that don't know how to end the movie.
Other than all that, I guess it was a good flick but if you payed for me to see it again, I would most likely take your money and take you to another movie.
Nausicaä
02-12-12, 01:19 PM
In those situations, girls either run and get scarred of their " friend " or they kick back and enjoy the show. Our heroine did neither except get miscast for the part.
She was watching in shock, perfectly realistic. Plus she could hardly go anywhere while stuck in the lift while the majority of that violence happened.
Gosling is standing with the girl aware that a character in the same elevator is about to do him egrigious bodily harm and what does he do? He is so cool, he turns his back on the guy and embraces the girl ( tying up both of his hands in the process )for a long lingering kiss. Of course, the other guy, I guess out of respect, waits for Gosling to finish making out and allows him to turn so he can defend himself.. Come on........
One reason he did that was so he could safely move her out of the way ready for him to attack the man(and he probably knew this would be the only time he could be so intimate with her after she sees what he is about to do) and probably realised the man wouldn't do anything while in the lift, less suspicious then just suddenly moving her out of the way and therefore no surprise attack from Gosling... 'it's a couple kissing and they don't suspect that I'm going to kill them once the lift has got to where they are going'. The man with the gun would have waited until the lift came to a stop so he can shoot and kill and make an easier getaway, unlike stuck in the lift with two people and shooting.
no problem, but guess what, he just leaves a million dollars
If you pay attention to the film you would see reasons why he left the money. Perfectly fine ending to the film.
cinemaafficionado
02-12-12, 06:32 PM
She was watching in shock, perfectly realistic. Plus she could hardly go anywhere while stuck in the lift while the majority of that violence happened.
One reason he did that was so he could safely move her out of the way ready for him to attack the man(and he probably knew this would be the only time he could be so intimate with her after she sees what he is about to do) and probably realised the man wouldn't do anything while in the lift, less suspicious then just suddenly moving her out of the way and therefore no surprise attack from Gosling... 'it's a couple kissing and they don't suspect that I'm going to kill them once the lift has got to where they are going'. The man with the gun would have waited until the lift came to a stop so he can shoot and kill and make an easier getaway, unlike stuck in the lift with two people and shooting.
If you pay attention to the film you would see reasons why he left the money. Perfectly fine ending to the film.
First of all, it really would be nice if you were less confrontational about my posts. I really want o give you a kiss but it's really hard on the internet so I'll just debate your arguement:
1 - the girl was allready out of the elevator, standing there and watching the guy getting stomped to death ( her facial reaction was not registering any particular shock )
2 - Your explaination is so fantasy movie like. I don't think you have been in any real physical fights. When a guy becomes aware of an impending attack, it's either fight or flight. You will never ever see somone just turn their back and handicap himself by wrapping himself around a girl and kissing her, knowing that he is about to get jumped and giving his attacker all kinds of opportunities to end it quickly. Are you kidding me?
3- Whatever gave you the idea that I wasn't paying attention to the movie
as I discussed very specific details?
Albert told him very clearly that it didn't matter whether or not he left the money but that the girl would be ok. Why would Gosling believe a character that was so deceptive throughout?
She would have been eliminated anyway because she was a witness and those kind of guys never leave loose ends.
It would have made much more sense for Gosling to scoop up the money, get the girl and get out of Dodge. That way for sure he had a better chance of protecting her and that kind of money could buy new identities and travel to far away places where they could both dissapear forever.
That's reality!
Nausicaä
02-12-12, 07:35 PM
it really would be nice if you were less confrontational about my posts.
I give up...
cinemaafficionado
02-12-12, 11:50 PM
I give up...
Ooops... I just realized who that is on your avatar.
slestack11
02-13-12, 03:09 AM
It's a shame the Academy did not recognize this movie as one of its best pictures because I really thought it was one of the best this year. The intensity and grittiness reminded me of those tough guy movies of the 70's.
mastermetal777
02-17-12, 06:43 PM
Saw this film a few days ago, and I was surprised by it. First off, I loved it. There was an element of surprise to it that got me from the start. I saw no trailers of it (or if I did, they were less than memorable), so I watched it thinking it was going to be another wrongly-praised standard action flick. Boy, was I wrong. It's not so much a heist/car-driving film so much as a dramatic character study on what really motivates people to do what they do, especially in situations like getting involved with dangerous people. Ryan Gosling does a fantastic job as The Driver. As for his long pauses, I felt they were pretty well-placed and meaningful as he considers his next thought carefully. He was a little too cool during some scenes, which can come off as unsettling at times. However, not much is really known about his character, or how long he's been at his job, so I forgive his demeanor for that reason. Albert Brooks and Bryan Cranston are also fantastic, with Brooks taking every scene he's in by force. The story does come off as a bit muddled and stiff, not providing enough exposition to advance itself quickly enough during one or more important scenes. However, once you start getting into the characters' motives and why they do them, that's when the plot finally starts adding together a little better. I loved the camerawork, the writing, the acting, and the overall direction and atmosphere of this quick little drama. The story might be a little simplistic, but it fits perfectly. I give it 3.5 out of 4 stars.
jepanic
02-24-12, 12:20 PM
Here is my review of Drive:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFwt_UG1ROc
TylerDurden99
03-10-12, 08:16 PM
4.5
Definitely the best film of I've seen of 2011 thus far. I loved the ultra-stylish direction, the impressive performances (Albert Brooks is great) and the excellent soundtrack. I have some problems with the pacing, but they're all minor.
Loved it.
JaBreEJ
03-12-12, 07:51 AM
bad
gandalf26
03-12-12, 08:08 AM
bad
Thanks for the detailed critique!
I take it you are eagerly anticipating the release of Transformers 4, 5 and 6.
mastermetal777
03-12-12, 08:10 AM
bad
care to explain your opinion, or are you just gonna leave it at that?
Nausicaä
03-12-12, 08:11 AM
Good
JaBreEJ
03-12-12, 08:14 AM
Thanks for the detailed critique!
I take it you are eagerly anticipating the release of Transformers 4, 5 and 6.
I actually never watched any of Transformers movies or animations.I don't like action movies,especially the ones like Transformers.World is not black and white,you should know.
Nausicaä
03-12-12, 08:30 AM
Why did you think Drive was Bad?
gandalf26
03-12-12, 08:59 AM
I actually never watched any of Transformers movies or animations.I don't like action movies,especially the ones like Transformers.World is not black and white,you should know.
Well explain a little more as to why you think Drive was "bad". Many forum members consider it to be just about the best film of 2011.
Skepsis93
03-12-12, 09:05 AM
I think it's a stretch to call it the best of the year, but for sheer coolness and entertainment value I'd give it 4. It lacks the emotional depth to be a really "great" movie, for me.
genesis_pig
03-12-12, 12:52 PM
Best of 2011? Hardly.. but decent entertainment.
The movie was really cool and Ryan Gosling is a great actor!
Nausicaä
03-26-12, 11:26 AM
^ If you haven't seen it, he is excellent in a film called The Believer:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/7/78/Believerposter.jpg
Nausicaä
03-26-12, 07:04 PM
^ Have you seen The Believer?
ollanik
04-16-12, 11:11 PM
bad
horrible
Cenydd Ros
04-20-12, 07:47 PM
I rank Drive as best picture, best cinematography, best directing of 2011.
ollanik
04-22-12, 01:54 AM
I rank Drive as best picture, best cinematography, best directing of 2011.
2011. movies are not THAT bad...
Cenydd Ros
06-13-12, 01:29 AM
Driver kisses Irene in the elevator because he knows once he does what he must in that next instance, he'll never be able to kiss her again.
Might be the most perfect film I have ever seen.
...Okay?
I thought it was great. Easily one of my favorites of 2011. So far, I've seen it twice in the theaters. I'll most likely buy the BR at some point....
5
Flimmaker1473
06-13-12, 02:47 AM
I came into that movie with high expectations and they were met.
Ryan Gosling is showing why he is one of the best actors of this generation. He plays Driver so mysteriously, shows how badass he is when he is pissed, abut shows that he he has a heart. Carey Mulligan was amazing as Irene. She is also showing that she is a young actress that is apart of the future of films. Bryan Cranston shows how great an actor he is with another great supporting role. And Albert Brooks as the villain was was genius.
Gosling, Mulligan, Cranston and Brooks were all screwed with not getting nominations imo. I think Gosling tried to push to get nominated for Ides of March (which was a good movie just nothing special) when he should have pushed for drive.
I'd give this film four stars It was the sixth best film of 2011.
MadMan_731
06-13-12, 06:48 AM
My review of Drive from my blog: http://madman731.blogspot.com/2011/11/i-dont-sit-in-while-youre-running-it.html
Way Too Indie
06-13-12, 07:11 PM
I definitely felt letdown by DRIVE. It may have the best soundtrack of last year but I wouldn't even put it in my Top 10 films of last year.
For me the plot was pretty weak and I never felt connected to any of the characters. Mulligan had a pretty solid performance though. Definitely better than your average automotive action film but I just couldn't get into this film.
I don't see how you could criticize it for the plot being weak. If a director wants a simple story, then I don't see why he or she can't have one. Is that a problem nowadays, or what?
For me the plot was pretty weak and I never felt connected to any of the characters. Mulligan had a pretty solid performance though. Definitely better than your average automotive action film but I just couldn't get into this film.
I've come to the conclusion that it's just not for everyone. I really really liked it and don't really consider it an automotive action film. To me it was a love story and was really focused on a soft spoken, nameless, stranger, who is willing to protect with his life the two people in the world that he believes deserve not to be hurt. Willing to go to extremes like helping her husband and skull crushery.
But to be honest a lot of people liked Ron Perlman in it, but every time he was on screen it took me out of the movie completely. I cringe when I think back on, "That is one mother ****in fine ass pussy mobile mother ****er". Gosling, Mulligan, Brooks, and Cranston were great though.
Prob in my top 5 for 2011.
The Prestige
06-14-12, 08:40 AM
Yeah, I think you just have to accept the simplicity of the story, Way To Indie. It is refreshingly simple imo, and I think it is that very simplicity that translate into the spectator's performances, using suggestions and body language to convey depth. It seems like a cop out, but I happened to find a lot going on there.
I think it also gave Refn space to do his thing with the overall style of the film, which is stunning at times.
But to be honest a lot of people liked Ron Perlman in it, but every time he was on screen it took me out of the movie completely. I cringe when I think back on, "That is one mother ****in fine ass pussy mobile mother ****er". Gosling, Mulligan, Brooks, and Cranston were great though.
If you're not big on the guy, I could see how his performance would wind one up. But I thought it was a nice bit of casting against type. Besides Blade 2, I don't think I have ever seen Pearlman in an unsympathetic role, and he is surprisingly effective at playing such characters.
Anyways, like you said, this film isn't for everyone. There seems to be two set minds when people go into the film:
A) That it's going to be a dumb, fun action adventure with pimped up automobiles and stuff, like in the Fast & Furious series.
B) That it will be completely the opposite to A - that it's going to be this mega complex indie flick that's disguised as an action thriller.
As most will know by now, it's neither. To quote another user on imdb, Drive is a discourse in filmmaking. I'm mostly attracted to the tone of a film and whether or not I care about a character, regardless of if I hate them or not, and Drive ticked these things for me. If you're not big on neo noir or films that attempt to tell the story through atmosphere and great use of mise-en-scene then it's not the film for you.
Cenydd Ros
06-20-12, 03:24 AM
Maybe the best film I have ever seen. I've watched a thousand movies - some of them several time (junkie) - Drive is perfect. Love it.
But, that said, everyone to their own cup of tea. For me, this IS the perfect film.
planet news
06-20-12, 04:28 PM
But to be honest a lot of people liked Ron Perlman in it, but every time he was on screen it took me out of the movie completely.I kinda had that feeling too, but I think only because his character was just so naturally and immediately unsavory, which of course helps the satisfaction when he leaves.
This is one of my favorite movies ever. It's such a badass movie.
Mmmm Donuts
09-16-13, 05:23 PM
^Definitely. This was the movie that made me see films in a different light.
Mr Minio
09-16-13, 05:28 PM
Drive is my favourite Refn film and a true modern classic.
Guaporense
09-16-13, 07:20 PM
Yeah, modern classic, as Drive is the second best movie of 2011.
BlueLion
09-16-13, 09:47 PM
It's just too damn cool.
http://i.imgur.com/rLYMWIg.png
http://i.imgur.com/aekW2yk.png
I have a jacket that is quite similar to Gosling's, but I've been contemplating ordering the scorpion jacket. That would either make me look very cool and act as a p*ssy magnet, or make people go "lol, look at him he thinks he's Ryan Gosling, what a tool". Which one's more likely? The latter, of course. Which is why I think I shouldn't.
Guaporense
09-16-13, 09:50 PM
That depends on how many people actually watched Drive. It didn't sold many tickets (about 5 million) and I guess less than 10% of the US population actually saw it, either in cinema (1.5% of the US population) from downloading or from dvd/bluray, probably around 4-5% of the US population, so most people will not know what the scorpion jacket is.
Actually, PMMM was seem by a larger fraction of the Japanese population than that.
BlueLion
09-16-13, 10:02 PM
That depends on how many people actually watched Drive. It didn't sold many tickets (about 5 million) and I guess less than 10% of the US population actually saw it, either in cinema (1.5% of the US population) from downloading or from dvd/bluray, probably around 4-5% of the US population, so most people will not know what the scorpion jacket is.
That is exactly what I've been thinking. And I'm not even from the US, so where I come from probably not even 1% of the population has seen it. I'm still thinking about it.
If I buy it, the first thing I'll do is wear it, go out for a drive and listen to this kind of music while driving http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G22X5X49VhM
Just kidding, I have no interest in cars at all. But you get the idea.
Guaporense
09-16-13, 10:13 PM
From where are you from?
BlueLion
09-16-13, 10:15 PM
From where are you from?
Europe.
Guaporense
09-16-13, 10:20 PM
I definitely felt letdown by DRIVE. It may have the best soundtrack of last year but I wouldn't even put it in my Top 10 films of last year.
I have noticed that I am incredibly influenced by the soundtrack of the movie, almost all my favorite movies have soundtracks that I love.
Guaporense
09-16-13, 10:21 PM
Europe.
I see. That's actually not very different from saying "the US", considering the size of the US.
MovieGal
09-16-13, 10:23 PM
I am a huge Nicolaus Winding Refn fan and I thought this was his worse movie so far that I have seen. Perhaps because its an American made film by a Danish director. It does not hold up to the standards of his other films like "Pusher", "With Blood On My Hands: Pusher 2", "Bleeder", "Fear X" and "Bronson". I did not put "Valhalla Rising" with those films as this is the only artistic film by Winding Refn. But to me "Drive" was horrible. It fit along with all the other "American" films. It lacked the depth that his "Danish" films carry.
Seriously, Winding Refn needs to dump Ryan Gosling and go back to using Mads.
bluedeed
09-16-13, 11:51 PM
Yeah, modern classic, as Drive is the second best movie of 2011.
Behind The Tree of Life I presume?
gandalf26
09-17-13, 11:01 AM
OMG I think a Black/Dark Scorpion jacket would be hella cool. I want one.
"How about this, shut your mouth or I'll kick your teeth down your throat and shut it for you".
bluedeed
09-17-13, 11:36 AM
That depends on how many people actually watched Drive. It didn't sold many tickets (about 5 million) and I guess less than 10% of the US population actually saw it, either in cinema (1.5% of the US population) from downloading or from dvd/bluray, probably around 4-5% of the US population, so most people will not know what the scorpion jacket is.
While this isn't false, it doesn't consider the crowd of people Blue Lion would be hanging around. I doubt more than .1% of the 60+ population went to see it, but I bet a lot more of Blue Lion's peers and friends went to see it than the average suggests. A majority of the people in my school saw it when it some time between when it came out and now. We surround ourselves with at least moderately similar people. I know I couldn't get away with the jacket (even though I bear a resemblance to Gosling as many have told me) where I am because I don't live in a preschool or an elderly home.
I see. That's actually not very different from saying "the US", considering the size of the US.
What is this saying?
It's just too damn cool.
http://i.imgur.com/rLYMWIg.png
http://i.imgur.com/aekW2yk.png
I have a jacket that is quite similar to Gosling's, but I've been contemplating ordering the scorpion jacket. That would either make me look very cool and act as a p*ssy magnet, or make people go "lol, look at him he thinks he's Ryan Gosling, what a tool". Which one's more likely? The latter, of course. Which is why I think I shouldn't.
I have been debating buying the scorpion jacket as well. It's so awesome. Quite the price tag though. Isn't it like $160 or something in that range?
BlueLion
09-17-13, 05:03 PM
I have been debating buying the scorpion jacket as well. It's so awesome. Quite the price tag though. Isn't it like $160 or something in that range?
I've no idea how expensive it is. Usually when I really want something I don't care about the price, but I'm not sure if I really want it.
Mmmm Donuts
09-18-13, 01:47 AM
I feel like only Ryan Gosling could pull off this jacket now. But damn, just look at it. I bet you would feel 10x tougher with that thing on.
Just take a midnight walk with it on, and stare down any shady people you come across.
carlos-
10-02-13, 04:08 PM
1st time I really like Ryan Gosling in the movie of Drive. The movie is OK but the outfit of Ryan Gosling is great. And you know guys is my upcoming Halloween Outfit. Thanks Moviestarjacket.com!
Mmmm Donuts
10-02-13, 04:25 PM
1st time I really like Ryan Gosling in the movie of Drive. The movie is OK but the outfit of Ryan Gosling is great. And you know guys is my upcoming Halloween Outfit. Thanks Moviestarjacket.com!
Carlos? Is that you?
http://i1.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/original/000/515/180/af1.jpg
http://i2.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/original/000/515/186/36e.png
irishphoenix83
10-09-13, 04:54 PM
I have to admit, I'm not going to be one of the MoFos who will be *raving* about "Drive." Don't get me wrong, it was an above-average film that was engaging enough. I'm just not jumping up and down about it. Take away the awesome score/music & take away Ryan Gosling: you'd have a 6/10 or lower.
I could tell that A LOT of people leaving the theater were disappointed. "Drive" was marketed as a sort of indie homage to "Gone in 60 Seconds," and I think that most people probably bought their tickets under the impression that it would be "Fast & Furious" for grown ups. As soon as I saw Refn's name attached to the film, I knew it would end up being more artistic and cerebral (vis-a-vis "Bronson")...so since that's what I was expecting, I wasn't as miffed as some of the other folks.
I wasn't disappointed by "Drive," - I pretty much knew what I was in for. It was just missing that little *extra* something, you know? I wasn't emotionally invested, and I really wanted to be. It's almost as if it was too cool.
To say "Take away the awesome score/music & take away Ryan Gosling: you'd have a 6/10 or lower," is like saying "Take away all the main actors of Ocean's Eleven, along with director Steven Soderbergh: you'd have a 1/10." The music and Ryan Gosling both made the movie what it is. I will be the first to admit that Ryan Gosling will always be stereotyped as the "tight lipped, melancholic hero," but that was perfect for this role. I see this movie as one "artistic" in nature, and when viewing artistic movies, I feel they can be viewed on two planes. One plane, is where you identify with the emotion that art is producing. The second plane, is you recognize the piece (or film in this respect) as a vessel of art (in the whole and abstract form), and view it in that context. For me, i viewed it in the second plane. For me, watching Drive was like watching a visual hedonist experience for the eyes, coupled with a musical decadence for those born in the 90s. Not only did the music create the independent feel for the movie, but it immediately set it apart from anything but post opening sequence. If people were looking or hoping for a more adult version of Gone in Sixty Seconds, or Fast and Furious, then I can see why they were disappointed. In truth, I felt this was more of a love story, that happened to be told in the explained setting/context. The cold exterior of Ryan Gosling's character, made subtle references to his inability to truly love and trust and let go of his false sense of lonesome despair, by the final sacrifice he made for the female. To me it felt more like a spaghetti western in the sense, that there were slow, drawn sequences, interrupted by quick, but brutal fight scenes, leading up to a climatic third act. This movie was very reminiscent of the "The Man with No Name" movies Clint Eastwood did (in regards to subtlety of plot and timing). For me, i give this movie a 4.5 out of 5, view it as an abstract expression of one man's ability to express his love the only way he can....to drive....(i know, that gave me the "douche" chills as well).
Mmmm Donuts
10-09-13, 10:09 PM
Blame the marketing department for the misunderstanding. If you watch the trailer, it's nothing like the movie at all. I'm glad I watched the movie before seeing any of these horrible trailers.
Blame the marketing department for the misunderstanding. If you watch the trailer, it's nothing like the movie at all. I'm glad I watched the movie before seeing any of these horrible trailers.
Yeah the trailers made it seem like some incredibly fast paced action flick akin to say Fast and the Furious.
Kristyangeljackets
11-30-14, 05:03 PM
really an awesome movie to watch.. impressive acting by Ryan Gosling and awarded for lots. my side it should be 5 stars
hello101
11-30-14, 05:15 PM
I watched it recently, I liked it for its own style, I don't get the Taxi Driver comparisons however.
Both of them = Quiet guy who drives around a lot snaps and uses violence to correct perceived injustices.
BlueLion
11-30-14, 05:25 PM
It's like it's the same film really, the only difference being Taxi Driver is essentially a drama whilst Drive belongs more to the thriller/action/neo-noir genre.
hello101
11-30-14, 05:31 PM
IDK, maybe I'm just erked by someone actually comparing to my beloved Taxi Driver.
I wouldn't call Travis quiet, more like socially awkward. The Driver is quiet, prefers to use actions as talk, I don't find that very awkward, unorthodox yes.
Taxi Driver is gritty and grimy, Drive came off as really slick and glamourous.
Iroquois
12-15-14, 02:43 AM
Not another one.
http://40.media.tumblr.com/1c969d1418f49f66b9b6760a9ae40c31/tumblr_mu5ibhYzsK1sim60yo1_500.jpg
I have been debating buying the scorpion jacket as well. It's so awesome. Quite the price tag though. Isn't it like $160 or something in that range?
I'd buy something with similar style, but not an identical copy - that would just scream "fanboy" to me.
vBulletin® v3.8.0, Copyright ©2000-2025, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.