Drive (2011) Dir: Nicolas Winding Refn
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Sometimes you just need to rewatch a really good film, and this Nicolas Winding Refn directed film is just that. It's one I come back to time and time again, for a myriad of reasons. There's just so many reasons to love this crime film, and so many reasons why it's so easy to revisit.
The film features one of my all-time favourite soundtracks. It has such a satisfying uniformity in its sound, and channels both emotion and its beat to effectively emphasise the actions and emotions on-screen. Plus, it's just a really groovy selection of songs.
The colour palette for the film is, at times, immaculate, and, in combination with some beautifully framed and lit shots, makes for a rather stunning film, without ever going over-the-top. It may not be the flashiest film ever, but it sure is pretty.
Another strength of the film is its effective use of slow motion, which is well shot and, crucially, not overdone. It being used sparingly means it doesn't slow down the pace of the film, and allows the very cool action and driving sequences to be as engrossing and entertaining as possible.
I really enjoy the film's narrative. I think it's well composed, well paced and combines the action and romance very smoothly, which helps to create a thrilling and engaging story. I had forgotten how brutal and violent some aspects of the film were, although, it's worth mentioning that they don't feel out of place in the story.
Ryan Gosling often gets mocked for his relatively quiet role in this film, but, despite his lack of dialogue, he gives a very compelling performance, which showcases a lot of Gosling's more subtle acting capabilities. I, for one, really enjoy this performance from him.
If you want to cast a sincere, endearing and innocent-seeming female protagonist, cast Carey Mulligan. She's such a talented actress, and this is a role she definitely thrives in. Her interactions with both Gosling and Isaac are utterly exceptional, as are her facial expressions.
Bryan Cranston and Albert Brooks stand out for their supporting roles, with Cranston once again showing why he is often such an underrated feature film actor, and Brooks being a quietly rather compelling antagonist. Other very notable and enjoyable supporting performances come from the likes of Ron Perlman, Oscar Isaac, Kaden Leos and Christina Hendricks.
Overall, I don't think I'm alone in heavily praising this film. It's constantly mentioned on lists and compilations of great films from the previous decade, among other variables, and with good reason. It's such a great piece of cinema, which I wouldn't at all be surprised to live on in the minds of cinema-lovers for many years to come.
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