Drive – Cannes 2011

By Shawn Michael Lukaszewicz

Between the cheers of violence and the gasp of utter surprise, Nicolas Winding Refn truly made something special. “Drive” might have been the experience for the 2011 Cannes line-up; the film itself generates the all-empowering feeling that all great films through out history have. The 80s retro vibe plays as almost another character on the screen with the odd beats as harmonious backdrops to this love heist extravaganza.

The film is intended for a more existential experience rather than a full on action flick. The lack of dialogue leaves Ryan Gosling to rely on the skills that only he can give to the roll of the Driver, who is a young Hollywood stuntman who also moonlights as a get away driver for different robberies. Gosling leaves nothing behind with his subtle face gestures giving away all he needs scene by scene. Gosling quietly shines and steals every moment in the film, but the supporting cast shines all around as well. Bryan Cranston leaves an almost comedic breath as the Driver’s father-like guide looking out for this young Hollywood stuntman. Carey Mulligan’s plays Irene, the Driver’s complicated love interest. Her performance matches Gosling’s silent roar and creates several cinematic moments with only subtle gestures. Albert Brooks gives a gritty razor waving performance as a villainous gangster who wants to clean up the mess the Driver has made. Brooks portrays such a ruthless yet likeable individual that you forget about his career in the comedy world and see him truly as a serious threat to the Driver. The entire cast just plays so flawlessly with one another. No performance feels too false or forced.

The opening scene is easily going to be remembered in film history. Refn uses the backdrop of LA as another character as we weave down different downtown streets with the Driver. Refn keeps the art form alive in his action sequences and keeps the film’s integrity in telling the story of the Driver and this heist that could potentially save Irene. The film is awkward, beautiful and violent but most importantly it’s cool, really cool. Nicolas Winding Refn’s film “Drive” has reached cult status with its original violent vibe of redemption. Refn’s style keeps this original existential heist tale roaring through the end. The auditorium could not hold the excitement and energy that the film gave. Everyone who witnessed could only keep their jaws down and think, Bravo Mr. Refn, Bravo.