FilmDistrict | Release Date: September 16, 2011
8.2
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Universal acclaim based on 1693 Ratings
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Positive:
1,439
Mixed:
133
Negative:
121
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9
Qad24Nov 4, 2011
Director should expect many Oscar nominations: Best Cinematography, Best Sound and maybe even Best Picture. Who Knows?Well what can i say? Its one of the best movie I have ever seen so go see it .....
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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8
ActionBasterdNov 3, 2011
Based on book by James Sallis, Drive is not your normal action drama heist film. Director, Nicolas Winding Refn, who directed Valhalla Rising and Bronson, had said that films such as Bullitt and the Day of the Locust influenced Drive. RyanBased on book by James Sallis, Drive is not your normal action drama heist film. Director, Nicolas Winding Refn, who directed Valhalla Rising and Bronson, had said that films such as Bullitt and the Day of the Locust influenced Drive. Ryan Goslingâ Expand
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1
Edda1801Nov 3, 2011
I give it 1 point for the first 5 minutes. The remainder of the movie is a disappointment; it has ridiculously long pauses which become unintentionally funny/stupid and it then follows this up with gruesome fight scenes that are not enjoyableI give it 1 point for the first 5 minutes. The remainder of the movie is a disappointment; it has ridiculously long pauses which become unintentionally funny/stupid and it then follows this up with gruesome fight scenes that are not enjoyable or entertaining. I wouldn't recommend this movie to anyone. AWFUL. Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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9
BemaniAKOct 31, 2011
No doubt the best movie of the year, especially for action fans.
Ditching the new-age flowchart action script and moving back to the tried and true methods of creating a balance of tension, suspense and Action that creates emotion through
No doubt the best movie of the year, especially for action fans.
Ditching the new-age flowchart action script and moving back to the tried and true methods of creating a balance of tension, suspense and Action that creates emotion through pinpoint direction as opposed to making everything as over-the-top as possible.

Mix it with amazing actors, brutal violence, and an amazing 80's throwback soundtrack, and we get a movie that truly deserves to redefine the action genre.
Sadly, it won't overtake the billion-dollar box office boomers that should be properly defined as explosions-with-plot, however, there is a huge opportunity here for a new branch of lower-budget, higher-passion movies that can give real movie fans exactly what they want to see.
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7
JUIKEROct 30, 2011
Very stylish filmmaking with lots of aspects that I didn't care for. Gosling plays his character as weirdly smug and the pacing seems deliberately slow in a way that is only annoying. That said, Bryan Cranston is predictably very watchable,Very stylish filmmaking with lots of aspects that I didn't care for. Gosling plays his character as weirdly smug and the pacing seems deliberately slow in a way that is only annoying. That said, Bryan Cranston is predictably very watchable, the plot twists and turns and never flinches from following through to very natural conclusions, and there are great payoffs. Overall, the film favors style over real substance, art over literacy. Expand
0 of 4 users found this helpful04
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4
CrimewaveOct 30, 2011
People are freaking out about this movie like theyâ
0 of 4 users found this helpful04
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8
coldron1Oct 29, 2011
This was an enjoyable film and i am glad i watched it. It meets what i expected of it. Ended with few questions unanswered, but recommend this Film. People complain about how there is not much dialog in it but its not one of those films. IThis was an enjoyable film and i am glad i watched it. It meets what i expected of it. Ended with few questions unanswered, but recommend this Film. People complain about how there is not much dialog in it but its not one of those films. I was quite pleased with this movie. Starts slightly slow but that was okay for me and then got into really good action for the rest of the film. Expand
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0
nokaah9Oct 29, 2011
This movie was the biggest let down ever. The main character had two facial expressions and spoke 3 sentences during the entire movie. It mostly consisted of him sitting in the car with some really slow music in the background. This was 95%This movie was the biggest let down ever. The main character had two facial expressions and spoke 3 sentences during the entire movie. It mostly consisted of him sitting in the car with some really slow music in the background. This was 95% of the movie. The rest is what you saw in the trailer.

And btw, there is only one god damn car scene.
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2 of 6 users found this helpful24
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9
moviekretikOct 28, 2011
Film Noir meets Hammer Hardened Hero Maker meets Gangster Heavy Metal - as exploit of one of the reviewer in the imdb.com. Believe me when i say this.......it is the coolest damn action flick i've seen in quiet some time. It's not your basicFilm Noir meets Hammer Hardened Hero Maker meets Gangster Heavy Metal - as exploit of one of the reviewer in the imdb.com. Believe me when i say this.......it is the coolest damn action flick i've seen in quiet some time. It's not your basic shoot em' picture. It has this slight 'noire' edge to it that makes it shine much brighter than the rest.

The film is an electric mixture of beautiful, lingering cinematography, a pulsating soundtrack, lean dialogue and short bursts of graphic, bloody violence. It's tense and involving- almost impossible not to get immersed in. Nicolas Winding Refn is a Director to definitely keep a tab on.

Definitely the best of 2011 so far!
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10
abracadabraOct 28, 2011
I don't understand why this movie has so many haters. The movie's remarkable and I've watched it with pleasure. Every take was well thought out. Play of lights, positions of actors, their gestures and facial expressions where charming.I don't understand why this movie has so many haters. The movie's remarkable and I've watched it with pleasure. Every take was well thought out. Play of lights, positions of actors, their gestures and facial expressions where charming. Someone said there is lack of dialogs. I don't agree - the action was focused on a driver who has been played rather as a silent person but with strong personality. These tricks I mentioned above were enough to tell me a full plot. And the storyline was really absorbing. Expand
2 of 6 users found this helpful24
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10
gartside27Oct 27, 2011
This is a film that I have wanted to see since the first trailer, but have only just seen today, I expected a film that was all about the cars and the chase, like Gone in 60 Seconds, etc. Instead, I got a film that is like nothing I have seenThis is a film that I have wanted to see since the first trailer, but have only just seen today, I expected a film that was all about the cars and the chase, like Gone in 60 Seconds, etc. Instead, I got a film that is like nothing I have seen before. The cars were gorgeous but the cinematography was first class! Some of the camera angles and shots in the film were actually beautiful, and Gosling really plays his character well.
I haven't seen any other Ryan Gosling movies, but after this, I will be keeping an eye out for any other movies with him in.

Loved it
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8
FilmDilettanteOct 26, 2011
Fast cars, an anti-hero, mobsters, and a love story. Is Drive a date movie? Could be, if you can overlook some brutal violence and a little blood. Otherwise there is enough white knuckle action and romantic yearning to keep you and your dateFast cars, an anti-hero, mobsters, and a love story. Is Drive a date movie? Could be, if you can overlook some brutal violence and a little blood. Otherwise there is enough white knuckle action and romantic yearning to keep you and your date entwined throughout the movie.

Ryan Gosling plays a nameless stunt driver called only "the driver" or "the kid" (referred to hereafter as "Driver") who got his start working for Shannon (Bryan Cranston), a garage owner and supplier of stunt cars to Hollywood studios. Shannon also assists Driver as a capable getaway driver for robberies and heists, but despite this extracurricular income, Shannon and Driver still need funding from mob-connected Bernie Rose (Albert Brooks) to buy a stock car. Based on Driver's superior driving ability, Rose agrees to sponsor the venture despite the skepticism of his business associate Nino (Ron Perlman), a mobster fronted by a pizza parlor. Apart from this, we know little about Driver except that he lives a solitary existence fixing carburetors in his apartment down the hall from Irene (Carey Mulligan). Because Irene's husband is in prison, she is coping on her own with raising a son and keeping food on the table. Driver is happy to come to the rescue of our damsel in distress while keeping a gentlemanly distance, but soon it is clear they are attracted to one another. Just as this relationship begins to gather momentum, Irene learns that her husband (Oscar Isaac) is being released from prison in a week, and then the real trouble begins.

Despite the compelling driving and fight sequences, this is one of Gosling's more understated performances since Lars and the Real Girl. He speaks little, keeping an enigmatic, tight-lipped smile throughout most of the film. He thaws only for Irene and her son, and it is then we see Driver is lonely and wistful for love and domesticity. However, Driver is a man of contradictions, and despite his double life as a criminal, he displays honor as he backs away in the spirit of Lancelot, watching his Guinevere from afar, and coming to the rescue of her ill-fated husband when it appears to be the only path to assure Irene's safety from his prison connections. In the end, however, Driver must make the ultimate sacrifice to save her.

Among these good performances is also an appearance as a heist accomplice by Christina Hendricks of Mad Men, but but even with interesting characters, intriguing plot twists, gripping fight scenes and exciting car chases, Driver occasionally threatens to veer off into the contrived. Director Nicholas Winding Refn manages to get it back on track and keep us in our seats. It also helps to remember this is a screenplay based on a neo-noir work of pulp fiction by James Sallis, and you will forgive all if you watch it in that spirit. For these reasons, I can easily rate Drive an eight.

This review also appeared at www.filmdilettante.com.
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4
squiggs82Oct 24, 2011
Valhalla Rising again. Nicolas Winding Refn has made a second film using a lack of dialogue. I understand the use to make a film without speaking to the audience, but if you want to make a good film, at least have a great story instead ofValhalla Rising again. Nicolas Winding Refn has made a second film using a lack of dialogue. I understand the use to make a film without speaking to the audience, but if you want to make a good film, at least have a great story instead of trying to make artsy pictures. You need to pull people into a story with more than just the visual medium. Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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6
thesantanafanOct 23, 2011
The film misleads you in several ways into thinking that it is to be a movie about driving. Instead, what you get is Gosling driving a little, then getting out and bashing people's heads in(and not in the cool way). You spend the entireThe film misleads you in several ways into thinking that it is to be a movie about driving. Instead, what you get is Gosling driving a little, then getting out and bashing people's heads in(and not in the cool way). You spend the entire duration of the movie waiting for a climax that never comes. The film is very well crafted, but it sacrifices the potential to be enjoyed to make a creative statement that could really only be appreciated in retrospect. A funner movie that better fit its title would have been far more preferable, when the film ends it comes off as disappointing and incomplete. It's obviously that it finds influence in Taxi Driver and aims to be a close parallel to it, a mark that it admittedly hits. The mistake of this film was it's decision to deliberately mislead you into expecting something action packed, or at least with more driving. Expand
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10
cushicleOct 22, 2011
Phenomenal movie. Loved every aspect of the movie, the juxtaposition of intense action with extremely subtle facial expressions that tell you more about a character's motivation than a thousand words of dialogue. There is almost nothing IPhenomenal movie. Loved every aspect of the movie, the juxtaposition of intense action with extremely subtle facial expressions that tell you more about a character's motivation than a thousand words of dialogue. There is almost nothing I would change about this film and its easily the best movie I've seen this year, but if you expect a non stop action flick or have a short attention span this might not be for you. Expand
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10
MorriBeyOct 22, 2011
Amazing . Its a mixture of the following : Rules of Attraction, Punch drunk love, AI, Wall-e, No country for old men, Vanilla sky, Fight Club and a lovely Electronic soundtrack. Best film so far of this decade.
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6
EvanduqOct 19, 2011
The strong points of this film included interesting shot compositions and a cast that made for entertaining and memorable characters. The pacing seemed to match Driver's style: from slick and speedy to outright stationary at points, gettingThe strong points of this film included interesting shot compositions and a cast that made for entertaining and memorable characters. The pacing seemed to match Driver's style: from slick and speedy to outright stationary at points, getting away with it in the end but at somewhat of a cost. Scenes seemed like panes from a graphic novel at times. The major off-putting aspect of the film was the bizarre music selection. The tune for the main titles was promising, but during the times when the music swelled after that, I tended to get a bit confused. While it did create a strong emotional tag that was cashed in at the end, College's "A Real Hero" was just a weird musical choice for this flick's showcase song. Other than that, I'd definitely recommend seeing this movie at extended run venues or eventually DVD/VOD rental. Expand
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9
nutterjrOct 19, 2011
A film that truly seduces you; reals you in gently and then hits you like no tomorrow. Great work from Nicolas Winding Refn who neatly unfolds a love story with many layers through a masterful performance of Ryan Gosling. He plays a man whoA film that truly seduces you; reals you in gently and then hits you like no tomorrow. Great work from Nicolas Winding Refn who neatly unfolds a love story with many layers through a masterful performance of Ryan Gosling. He plays a man who hardly utters a word, yet says so much... Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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0
WhirlyballOct 18, 2011
This movie is utter garbage. Definitely one of the worst movie of 2011. Drive. Yeah. This movie drives me crazy. Me and my friend were expecting another Fast & Furious type of movie but were totally let down by this so-called art movie. IThis movie is utter garbage. Definitely one of the worst movie of 2011. Drive. Yeah. This movie drives me crazy. Me and my friend were expecting another Fast & Furious type of movie but were totally let down by this so-called art movie. I wish the movie was just call "Slow" cuz that what it is all about.

And yes, the soundtrack is also lousy. All these European I-dunno-who artists are all over the movie. Should have more music like Linkin Park, Korn and Lady Gaga or even Adele music to fit in the movie. That should bring the excitement for young people. No wonder I see many people leaving the cinema halfway the movie.
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2 of 6 users found this helpful24
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9
HashprinceOct 18, 2011
"Hey, you want a toothpick?"
I didn't feel this way for a movie since a long time.
DRIVE is the movie you need to see, the direction of the movie by Nicolas Winding Refn is ultra stylish and wonderful, the music and sounds in the movie
"Hey, you want a toothpick?"
I didn't feel this way for a movie since a long time.
DRIVE is the movie you need to see, the direction of the movie by Nicolas Winding Refn is ultra stylish and wonderful, the music and sounds in the movie matches perfectly to the environment, the performance of each actors is great, i love that the main character don't need to talk much, and you get so much more by his expression, his eyes,...
There's so many more things in this movie, the way the story is built, recurrent places where the hero and his princess will share few seconds staring at each other in silent.
This is kind of an unclassical love story about a hero and his princess, and the things he will do to protect her.
This is the movie of the year, a future cult movie fo sho.
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4
davenbettridgeOct 16, 2011
While I wish more movies would do things differently and take more risks, Drive is a movie that while being different - did NOT work. The opening scene was promising but the rest of the movie contained mis-chosen music, unnecessary use ofWhile I wish more movies would do things differently and take more risks, Drive is a movie that while being different - did NOT work. The opening scene was promising but the rest of the movie contained mis-chosen music, unnecessary use of slow motion, and a boring use of dialog. Drive's story was not special or innovative, I cared little for it's characters or it's situations which is the key for a movie's success. Pass on this one.â Expand
3 of 10 users found this helpful37
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3
BhawkOct 16, 2011
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Let me save you all 2 hrs of your life and too much of your well earned money. AVOID the new film Drive! After the interesting and unusual five minute opening (by FAR the best 5 minutes of the movie) this embarrassing vehicle for a usually excellent actor (Gosling) becomes an unintentionally funny car wreck. Ridiculously long pregnant pauses in dialogue (intended to be deep and thoughtful), ......possibly the stupidest soundtrack of all-time, and corny as can be bad guys (what is with the Oscar buzz for Brooks?!?), this terribly miss-titled mess should have been called STAB instead of DRIVE, since there are barely any cool driving scenes at all (in a film about a Hollywood stunt drive), and someone gets stabbed in some over-the-top way about every 5 minutes during the last third of this dog. Worst film I've seen since Shyamalan's The Happening and a MAJOR disappointment. Expand
2 of 7 users found this helpful25
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10
socalsp3Oct 15, 2011
Great movie. Eastwood Spaghetti Western meets Miami Vice meets GTA. Soundtrack was enjoyable as well. For the people who are giving this movie a negative review I would suggest Transformers or some other mindless action flick. This movie isGreat movie. Eastwood Spaghetti Western meets Miami Vice meets GTA. Soundtrack was enjoyable as well. For the people who are giving this movie a negative review I would suggest Transformers or some other mindless action flick. This movie is stylized. You'd have to appreciate the nuances of the film, camera angles, music, the fact that the main character has no name and rarely speaks, to enjoy it between the action sequences. Rent Transformers or some Michael Mann film if the only thing that keeps your attention are explosions going off every 5 minutes. Expand
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8
DKayOct 15, 2011
Don't take this the wrong way, Marty fans: "Drive" is my Gen Z kid's "Taxi Driver." Gosling has as much balls as anyone in Hollywood today, a DeNiro like set. It's all character here and w/out Gosling's charisma it crashes. So intelligentDon't take this the wrong way, Marty fans: "Drive" is my Gen Z kid's "Taxi Driver." Gosling has as much balls as anyone in Hollywood today, a DeNiro like set. It's all character here and w/out Gosling's charisma it crashes. So intelligent casting. The film's style and pacing is rebelliously flashy and the plot works, even though it's kind of back-seat driver predictable. The shootout at the motel f-in ruled and the music was equally slick. Loved watching it, but I didn't have the long term reflections I'd hoped for in a classic (a la "Taxi"). I was hoping the flashiness would blind me for days, instead, I was done rubbing my eyes at the parking lot. Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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7
grandpajoe6191Oct 15, 2011
Sensational director Nicholas Winding Refn's "Drive" is a good subtle movie that sorta revives the noir genre with violence and color. The film's ending is hurried and weak compared to the immense tension it creates. However, the directorSensational director Nicholas Winding Refn's "Drive" is a good subtle movie that sorta revives the noir genre with violence and color. The film's ending is hurried and weak compared to the immense tension it creates. However, the director actually presents a great movie with his ability to use various masterful camera angles as well as showing copious action and car chases. In conclusion...watch it. It's a cool movie that will definitely appeal to you. Expand
8 of 18 users found this helpful810
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10
nluckettOct 14, 2011
One of my favorite movies in recent memory. At first blush this felt like a really modern 80's film, from the brooding hero to the typography to the music. But it also has sentiments of modern movie making in the shockingly realistic violenceOne of my favorite movies in recent memory. At first blush this felt like a really modern 80's film, from the brooding hero to the typography to the music. But it also has sentiments of modern movie making in the shockingly realistic violence to the artfully long and dreamy moments between a man and his drive and also between a man and the woman and child he falls in love with. To a small extent you do have to be willing to melt into the world of Drive, but once you do, this is a sublime journey. Expand
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9
ShiiraOct 13, 2011
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A Clippers home game, a job; no problem, because the driver is one of those Dirty Harry types, somebody who compartmentalizes his pleasure from business, just like Clint Eastwood in the 1971 film, where the detective grabs a quick bite to eat at a hamburger joint across from the bank he knows is being robbed. Callahan notices the smoke exhaust fumes coming out of the parked car; he may even see the cigarette butts and matches outside the driver's side window collecting on the pavement, left behind by the chain-smoking autoist. The man at the wheel is nervous. The thieves should have hired a professional, a driver so cool and collected, he can follow a basketball game, first via television in the darkness of his hotel room, then on the radio in the darkness of the streets, before and after the robbery, not even minding that the second man emerging from the building is late. He's unflappable, this driver, with a demeanor that suggests Steve McQueen(in "Bullitt"), going so far as turning up the volume on the game, eclipsing the police radio in loudness, with the fuzz in hot pursuit. It's an affectation of nonchalance that recalls Harry finishing his hot dog while attending to the crime in progress. A bank-robbing outfit is only as good as its driver, and the specialist for these black stick-up men puts their getaway car on its side, but not before he hits the flower stand and a fire hydrant. Crossing the street, still chewing, with his M29 drawn, Harry then delivers that immortal speech to the felon, words that could only exist in the movies. "I know what you're thinking. Did he fire only six shots or only five?" As it turns out, the driver's interest in the fortunes of the L.A. Clippers is ostensible; he doesn't care one bit about how many shots the basketball team fired, but only that the game finishes before he turns into the Staples Center's parking garage, where he and his clients can disappear in the throng of hoop fans returning to their cars. Nevertheless, the sequence is pure cinema, too easy; too according to plan, all because of that pesky "the" attached to the protagonist's name, who at this point, is still an archetype. Played by Ryan Gosling, Driver(the "the" is implied through pastiche) evokes a mute Ryan O'Neal in "The Driver". The next day, we see the driver in uniform, but no, he's not a cop, but a stuntman for the movies, so in a sense, the driver is actually McQueen's double in the Peter Yates film; it's life imitating art, since a stuntman as opposed to a regular person(or an actor) stands a better chance of surviving a high-speed chase without injury. Like "To Live and Die in L.A.", "Drive" has in common with the William Freidkin film, a starving artist who dabbles in fakery. A Secret Service agent, on the trail of a failed painter-turned counterfeiter, burns an unsold canvas with his lighter, whereas the driver, a counterfeit actor, no longer burns rubber just for the cameras, but also in his personal life, where he is now the protagonist of his own crime story. Gosling is paying homage to his seventies-era forerunner, but then there's a diverging point, a vanishing point for the "the" in the character's name. The archetypal driver in the 1978 film, leaves both corresponding females alone, since neither The Player, nor The Connection, are called The Lover. Because of his asexual nature, The Driver never comes across as a real person. When O'Neal's character shows up at the apartment, he doesn't register that the hired allibi(for a casino heist) is beautiful. The woman takes no offense; she's sexless too. The Player just wants to collect her money. Their professionalism feels false, however, when you consider the genre involved: film noir, so the lack of sexual tension between them has a dislocating effect, since the man can't truly be hard-boiled without a hard-on, and the woman, act the part of femme fatale, in the presence of such flaccidity. Casey Mulligan, who is not The Prison Wife, nor The Mother, nor The Waitress, but a combination of all these facets that makes her Irene, puts the driver's preposition on notice the moment when these apartment neighbors share an elevator. The preposition gets eradicated for good in the supermarket parking lot, where Irene's car is on the fritz. "Where should I put this?" Driver asks, about the groceries(read: his thing) that he carries into her flat. Sadly, Irene has a husband in prison, so the real answer is a moot point. When he returns home, Irene becomes an accidental femme fatale, because Driver becomes a byproduct(not merely a replicant) of the exploitation cinema template, therefore prone to death. Every femme fatale has a hidden motive, and here, it exists on the level of narrative; she kills the sports movie, when Driver chooses to help Standard rob a pawn shop, rather than be a racecar driver. Nothing goes according to plan, of course, since there's no "the" in driver. Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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8
DeadshotCRYSISOct 13, 2011
The story was pretty interesting, and they released the film at the right time: when not many other great films are coming out. If this film was released when the hobbit or the dark knight rises comes out, this wouldn't stand a chance. WellThe story was pretty interesting, and they released the film at the right time: when not many other great films are coming out. If this film was released when the hobbit or the dark knight rises comes out, this wouldn't stand a chance. Well worth a watch though. Expand
2 of 6 users found this helpful24
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10
Sir_BrandonOct 13, 2011
Every once in a while, a film comes along that cannot be compared to anything else you have ever seen before. This is one of those films. Drive is truly one of a kind. Danish director Nicolas Winding Refn (Bronson) uses his talents and uniqueEvery once in a while, a film comes along that cannot be compared to anything else you have ever seen before. This is one of those films. Drive is truly one of a kind. Danish director Nicolas Winding Refn (Bronson) uses his talents and unique vision to tell a story with style and substance. He has made an artsy action film that lets music tell part of its story while always being visually exciting.

Ryan Gosling plays a guy who only goes by Driver. He is quiet and keeps to himself. By day, he works in a garage for Shannon (Bryan Cranston) and works part-time as a Hollywood stuntman. At night, he is a getaway driver and uses his special skills behind the wheel to get the bad guys to safety. He is a loner by nature and has his own way of doing things. He has specific rules that people must follow before he takes a job and lends his services. And there is no mistaking on what he expects from them or himself, and he makes sure you definitely understand what he is telling you.

But even for a guy like Driver, he cannot help but fall in love with his neighbor Irene (Carey Mulligan), a young mother whose husband (Oscar Issac) gets out of prison and drags all of them in to a very messy situation. Due to how he feels about Irene and her son, Driver helps her husband with a heist that is to clear his debt once and for all. But it goes horribly wrong and he soon finds out there are more than a few people involved who want the bag of cash, including a gangster (Albert Brooks) who doesnâ
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3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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0
MB88Oct 11, 2011
Pretentious, conceited, contrived, hollow and boring. This film has no redeeming features. Anyone who enjoys this film clearly has an extremely limited knowledge of films. True 'arty' films such as Requiem for a Dream and A Scanner DarklyPretentious, conceited, contrived, hollow and boring. This film has no redeeming features. Anyone who enjoys this film clearly has an extremely limited knowledge of films. True 'arty' films such as Requiem for a Dream and A Scanner Darkly show what can be achieved with cinematography and a different approach to the formulaic construction of most Hollywood films. Drive merely shows how poorly a film can turn out when the director loses sight of the plot and focuses too much on being different. The result is a film where you feel nothing for the good-as-mute characters, lackluster driving scenes, gratuitously violent, yet brief, action scenes, a nonsensical plot as well as around 20 minutes of unnecessary silence. In short, Drive is a truly awful film. Expand
6 of 17 users found this helpful611
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0
Slayer__4Oct 10, 2011
I have registered on Metacritic specifically for the purposes of reviewing this "movie". This horrible junk is not a movie and definitely is not entertainment. I can say with absolute honesty that I attempted to give this movie the benefit ofI have registered on Metacritic specifically for the purposes of reviewing this "movie". This horrible junk is not a movie and definitely is not entertainment. I can say with absolute honesty that I attempted to give this movie the benefit of the doubt, but no saving grace presented itself. I am willing to say that this is THE worst movie I have ever seen in my life.

There was very little action, and the romance wasn't there either. I don't know how this movie was produced and I am in complete shock towards how utterly awful this experience truly was. Marijuana wouldn't even save this film, you would have to be high on acid, and even that might not work. I generally understand where the critics come from when rating movies but they are the polar opposite of right about this movie. Many people actually left the theatre about 60% of the way through and I was seriously considering following their lead. I feel like I wasted enough time watching that movie and I don't feel like wasting more going into heavy detail about everything this movie did wrong. If you are considering seeing this movie: DON'T.
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7 of 17 users found this helpful710
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9
J-ShapOct 10, 2011
Drive is, hands down, the single most exciting and involving film to come out all year. The best part is, you also can't really figure out what makes it so engaging. It just is. Too many films think. This once acts.
3 of 8 users found this helpful35
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7
SleeperOct 10, 2011
"Drive" is different. It's a modern western with extremely violent death scenes. It reminded me of Sergio Leone's westerns with the nameless hero at center, cleaning up the mess left behind by very bad people.

While Eastwood's Blondie was a
"Drive" is different. It's a modern western with extremely violent death scenes. It reminded me of Sergio Leone's westerns with the nameless hero at center, cleaning up the mess left behind by very bad people.

While Eastwood's Blondie was a silent type without expression, but still likeable, Gosling's nameless hero is pretty silent, but impressively expressive at the same time. He goes through all the motions with real emotion, and even though none of his back story appears, we know that he has a dark past that has driven him into the underworld, into hiding from something terrible, something that always comes back to haunt him. Albert Brooks is surprisingly effective as a cold, cold bastard. I admit getting a little tired of Carey Mulligan, that sweet wife with the sweet kid, and an unfortunate husband. However, I understood why she was important. The characters seemed emotionally invested in each other, which added context to the action. And what an action. The driving was not disappointing, nor the heavy brutality of the killings, which were just as ugly as brutal as killings must be. Nothing attractive about the violence in this film.

When watching Ryan Gosling, I feel there is finally an actor comparable with the great Jimmy Stewart. He can both act sweet and cruel, desperate and calm, and at every moment believable. Without Gosling, this would have been just another action movie about a loner seeking justice in an unjust world.
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3 of 8 users found this helpful35
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10
SonyaOct 10, 2011
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. You don't need to hear grandiloquent dialogues, you don't need to see those tons od special effects, see sex scenes. This movie contains magnitude od emotions, Gosling's unspoken words still occupy your mind. You feel like in a gloomy dream, which not necessarily ends well.. The movie is marvelous. One of the best I've seen lately. Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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9
avatar16Oct 10, 2011
Avec toute la pub faite autour, on ne pouvait rater ce Drive, surtout avec cette palme de la mise en scène. Que les choses soient claires : Drive n'est pas un film comme les autres. Certes, le scénario peutAvec toute la pub faite autour, on ne pouvait rater ce Drive, surtout avec cette palme de la mise en scène. Que les choses soient claires : Drive n'est pas un film comme les autres. Certes, le scénario peut s'avérer classique pour certains. Mais le film excelle par ses acteurs (Ryan Gosling, stupéfiant) et surtout par sa mise en scène (la récompense et bien méritée). Le problème vient quand même de la mise en scène : une histoire qui inspire le punch, filmée avec lenteur, ce qui est original et inhabituel. Et c'est là que Drive perdra ou gagnera des fans, malgré/grâce à des scènes puissantes visuellement. Personnellement, j'y adhère. Mais je comprends ceux qui y sont réticents. Mais mon avis reste le même : Drive est un très bon film qui ne laisse en aucun cas différent. Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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0
mldOct 10, 2011
Most antisemitic movie you will see all year. Every Jewish character (the religion of no other characters are mentioned) is a Nazi-style stereotype of money grubbing, immorality and nearly laughable degeneracy. Albert Brooks should walk inMost antisemitic movie you will see all year. Every Jewish character (the religion of no other characters are mentioned) is a Nazi-style stereotype of money grubbing, immorality and nearly laughable degeneracy. Albert Brooks should walk in shame to have participated in this garbage. Expand
3 of 12 users found this helpful39
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2
K1_BOATEROct 8, 2011
I joined after my disappointment in this movie given that IMDB gave it an 8.4. Hopefully this site will be more objective.

Terrible movie, I thought I was in an episode of Miami Vice from the 80's. Gosling is more wooden than Keanu Reeves,
I joined after my disappointment in this movie given that IMDB gave it an 8.4. Hopefully this site will be more objective.

Terrible movie, I thought I was in an episode of Miami Vice from the 80's. Gosling is more wooden than Keanu Reeves, Bryan C. had too small a role as did Ron Perleman. This movie isn't worth even downloading. uggg
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4 of 13 users found this helpful49
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10
LordoftheBrownOct 8, 2011
More than just an action movie, this film is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Gosling gives one of the greatest performances of his career and of the year, period. Far more substance than I was originally anticipating, with the stellarMore than just an action movie, this film is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Gosling gives one of the greatest performances of his career and of the year, period. Far more substance than I was originally anticipating, with the stellar performances tied to extraordinary writing. Don't even get me started on how amazing the soundtrack is. This is the best action movie I've ever seen, and one of the best pictures of the year, without a doubt. Expand
2 of 6 users found this helpful24
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10
nixon31Oct 8, 2011
Its been a long time since I was blown away by a film. This flick has so much more than I expected. I watched it alone and enjoyed every bit of it. The music really makes the movie.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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7
BullNgOct 8, 2011
Only if there was a little more action in this movie, it would've been a really great movie. But the dude, Ryan Gosling deserve an Oscar nomination, at least !
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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10
nicechiantiOct 7, 2011
A gripping story told with knowing pace and style... This film renewed my cinemagoing energy which had waned over previous months. Outstanding - I loved every minute of it!
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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10
Coco890Oct 7, 2011
Drive is a movie where you will either love it, or hate it, depending on how well you can tolerate arthouse films. So be prepared(If you ever watch the movie), to see a bunch of scenes where the characters just stare at each other rather thanDrive is a movie where you will either love it, or hate it, depending on how well you can tolerate arthouse films. So be prepared(If you ever watch the movie), to see a bunch of scenes where the characters just stare at each other rather than actually talking to one another. Specifically Gosling's character and Mulligan's character. So there's not that much dialogue especially within the first 30 minutes. Even though I'm not a fan of arthouse movies, I loved this one. Though, the title and the way this is being marketed as is very misleading. I expected a movie with tons of action and cool car chasing scenes. That is not this movie. There's little action and really only two car chasing scenes. This movie focuses on the relationship between Gosling's character and Mulligan's character, for about the first hour. Then the last 40 minutes is just a lot of killing, a lot of the killings are graphic and extremely gory. The acting is terrific, the cast does a wonderful job but the two that stuck out the most were Gosling and Mulligan, surprisingly. They were both exceptional, and the chemistry between them was great. I just wish that they could have added another scene or two with Gosling's character and Irene(Mulligan) hanging out together or driving somewhere together to really make the relationship seem even more believable and stronger. I also wish that they would have given Gosling's character a name, he's only referred as "Driver" or "The Driver." I can see why they did that, I suppose it's probably better that they didn't give him a name but it would have been nice of them to give us a name. I admit I was pretty skeptic when I first heard Gosling playing this type of role, he proved me wrong. I actually can't picture anyone else doing this role but him. He ended up replacing Hugh Jackman, that was probably the best decision ever. I could not picture Hugh Jackman pulling off this type of role the way Gosling did. The story is simple and it kind of annoys me that people are saying this movie sucks because there was hardly a story. Sometimes a movie with a simple story can turn out to be an amazing film based on how well it's told and done. Other times a movie with a simple story can turn out to be total crap(Transformers Revenge of The Fallen). I mean no one seemed to care how Avatar hardly had a story, hell I didn't even care and I liked it. I didn't mind the simple story here because the movie was done so well. It was nicely shot especially during the two car chasing scenes. I especially liked the first car chase scene because you never left the car, it was filmed inside the car the whole time so it was nice to feel like you were part of that experience. The soundtrack for this movie was amazing, if the soundtrack for this movie is not nominated for best score I'm going to be upset. I loved the nice 80's like retro songs. Each song fit perfectly with each scene, and set a nice tone throughout the movie. I especially loved the song "A Real Hero" by College. That song just fit so perfectly with Gosling's character and actually added some depth to his character. Though the ending might have been disappointing for some, I liked the way it ended, and let me tell you it's not your normal Clichéd happy ending. It was actually very sad and different. People also seemed to complain about how awkward it was when Gosling and Mulligan stared at each other a lot without saying anything. I can see why people felt that way but it was really only awkward the first time they met and hung out together. Isn't that normal though? They both start to like each other but they're nervous so they stare, smile and laugh at each other. I think it added some realism to this movie. Another thing that seemed to bother people was that Gosling hardly said anything during the movie, especially when he was with Irene(Mulligan). This is true, but they purposely did that. He was originally suppose to talk a lot but they decided to cut away most of his lines, to make him seem more mysterious. I think it was a smart idea of them to do this, it fit well with the movie, and it gives you a chance to try and figure his character out yourself. What was his childhood like? What got him into driving? How did he learn to drive so well? Ect. There's really no wrong answers to those questions and I actually thought about this movie for about a week after I saw it, hell I'm still thinking about it. I think I went overboard with reviewing this movie, I could continue to go on forever talking about this movie and everything that I loved about it but I won't. People who disliked this movie are probably going to think I was on crack while I was watching it but this is a great movie. Expand
2 of 6 users found this helpful24
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8
wishmasterOct 7, 2011
I loved the action scenes, bloody death, a captivating story that gives you options to guess the end, I have to applaud the performances of the cast, especially clear, Gosling and Mulligan (I love her). dramatic and entertaining film thatI loved the action scenes, bloody death, a captivating story that gives you options to guess the end, I have to applaud the performances of the cast, especially clear, Gosling and Mulligan (I love her). dramatic and entertaining film that leaves you stunned and wanting more.! Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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9
ImUnavailableOct 7, 2011
This slow burner will disappoint those expecting an action packed adventure with huge set pieces and loud explosions. Drive blends arthouse cinema with heavy violence to create a film that is affecting on an emotional level and has a distinctThis slow burner will disappoint those expecting an action packed adventure with huge set pieces and loud explosions. Drive blends arthouse cinema with heavy violence to create a film that is affecting on an emotional level and has a distinct visual flair. Not for everyone but approach it with an open mind. Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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3
MissVertigoOct 5, 2011
I can see why the critics would love this movie. It is different and generally speaking, that already scores high with critics. I did not enjoy it, but not because it was different. The rhythm is uneven, the score good but soundtrack doesn'tI can see why the critics would love this movie. It is different and generally speaking, that already scores high with critics. I did not enjoy it, but not because it was different. The rhythm is uneven, the score good but soundtrack doesn't work. The script clearly aims for "gritty and real" rather than the holywoodish "witty and snappy" but the result is boring instead of interesting. The title is misleading because there is very little actual street driving, people should know that. But really, for me, the key element for the story to work which is the love between the two main characters is just never credible. Without a foundation, no building can remain standing, no matter how pretty the curtains or how different the layout is. Expand
4 of 12 users found this helpful48
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8
DLcriticOct 5, 2011
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I really liked this movie. The 80's feelin' music and pink titles were really misleading, but I liked where this movie went. Starts off as a wheel man for hire, then it's a boy meets girl, then I thought it was going to be a Days of Thunder type thing, oh but wait, we're back to wheel man for hire and ends up a really really bloody. Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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1
miketeOct 4, 2011
I, like many others, joined just to review this movie. I have to say I love movies. I love arthouse movies. This movie was not too wierd or "arts-y" for me. The reason for the low score is that it is genuinely awful. I would have given it aI, like many others, joined just to review this movie. I have to say I love movies. I love arthouse movies. This movie was not too wierd or "arts-y" for me. The reason for the low score is that it is genuinely awful. I would have given it a 0, but the opening scene is very good, and I liked one other scene. Apart from that, I see absolutely nothing redeeming about Drive. The protagonist is an antisocial personality-vacuum. The love interest and her son are cute but ornamental. The two mob villains are ham-fisted and cliched to a point beyond parody. The audience is given no reason to emotionally invest in the well-being of any characters. There is not a germ of realism in the tacky, tv-movie script. All of which could serve to reinforce the mythology, if that's what this movie is after, but the archetypes aren't strong enough, and the story arc not epic enough to sustain a myth. And, to top it all off, amid all the clumsy writing and un-reality of the script, the filmmakers practically beg to be taken seriously with overlong dramatic pauses and hyper-graphic depictions of violence. It is a superficial, nihilistic, cynical exercise in vanity that seems to want to be taken as deep. It's terrible. Expand
10 of 21 users found this helpful1011
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8
mrxdaveOct 4, 2011
I agree that this movie seems to polarize people. If you don't mind a slower, arty-er movie...with a great 80's feel, and plenty of twists & turns....then you'll love it. If you are expecting tons of action and over-the-top dialogue, then youI agree that this movie seems to polarize people. If you don't mind a slower, arty-er movie...with a great 80's feel, and plenty of twists & turns....then you'll love it. If you are expecting tons of action and over-the-top dialogue, then you are probably going to hate it. I personally loved it. Even so, it's not a "perfect" movie - simply very good. Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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10
havslife76Oct 3, 2011
Just an overall great movie and by far my favorite of the year (so far). Fantastic story that is well paced and delivers heart-racing action and suspense. I must admit that the movie takes a little for the action to start up, but once itJust an overall great movie and by far my favorite of the year (so far). Fantastic story that is well paced and delivers heart-racing action and suspense. I must admit that the movie takes a little for the action to start up, but once it starts it rarely lets up. The movie is one of the most violent movies i've seen in a while, but thankfully the glorified violence and gore in some scenes actually feels fitting to the emotions the director wants the audience to feel.But overall, I think this movie should be up for Best Picture (and possibly Best Actor for Gossling). Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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0
aldersonreyes99Oct 3, 2011
One of the worst movies of the year. Not engaging in the slightest. Totally boring. A dud. Some good acting, but can't save the lifelessness of the movie.
2 of 6 users found this helpful24
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9
todayorOct 3, 2011
An action movie that manages to be both unique and stylized, callous and gentle. If you want to see something typical, and/or you enjoy the thorough oeuvre of Michael Bay, I suggest you spend your money elsewhere. However, if you enjoy aAn action movie that manages to be both unique and stylized, callous and gentle. If you want to see something typical, and/or you enjoy the thorough oeuvre of Michael Bay, I suggest you spend your money elsewhere. However, if you enjoy a meticulously created film- go right ahead. Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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1
GottOct 3, 2011
I just didn't get it. Way too weird and not about a get away driver at all. There is maybe 15 minutes of driving in the whole movie.

It was boring and strange.
7 of 19 users found this helpful712
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6
scrieciuOct 3, 2011
The trailer for '' Drive '' is so misleading. In fact, it's an art house film, which explains everything. The very beginning of the movie was exiting and captivating. I really got into it, and I couldn't wait to see the rest. Then,The trailer for '' Drive '' is so misleading. In fact, it's an art house film, which explains everything. The very beginning of the movie was exiting and captivating. I really got into it, and I couldn't wait to see the rest. Then, unexpectedly, it really, really, I mean really slows down. It's a slow movie, with barely two drive scenes. The description that I read about '' Drive '' says : '' A Hollywood stunt performer who moonlights as a wheelman discovers that a contract has been put on him after a heist gone wrong ''. Well that main event starts approximately around 50 minutes after the film debuted. This film is a little bit like if you took the boring parts (when their aren't killing anyone, their life situation) form an assassin, driver, killer, etc, and made a movie about it. Sure, the acting was good (big thumbs up for Ryan Gosling, I was impressed by his performance), the 70 's - 80 's music was cool and the cinematography was excellent. It's the kind of movie were all the snobby critics will give it a high score. Also, there were a few violent scenes, which were surprisingly bloody and brutal. I think that everybody should give it a try. If you don't get art house films, then you will really hate this. I only saw the movie once, but if I see it again, I will probably like it more. I think it's better a second viewing, because after seeing this, I left with nothing and I wasn't sure what I saw. The thing that bothers me the most is the people who liked this movie are getting overprotective and start to insult others by telling them that they don't know cinema, that they should watch '' Transformers '' instead, blah blah blah. Not everybody in the world will like this movie, it's impossible. Everybody was their own opinion. I'm giving it a 6, because while watching this movie I got a great feeling for some reason, yes i'm a little bit disappointed, yes most of the parts were boring, but everything is well done (the acting, etc). Has for the drama, it was a success. Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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2
Wato_RuseOct 3, 2011
The opening scene from Nicolas Refn's "Drive", in which Gosling's character is working as a getaway driver, set the premise for what I thought would be a great film. Instead, it marked the pinnacle of its discontinued merit. Firstly,The opening scene from Nicolas Refn's "Drive", in which Gosling's character is working as a getaway driver, set the premise for what I thought would be a great film. Instead, it marked the pinnacle of its discontinued merit. Firstly, throughout the movie it was apparent that the director was attempting to create a quasi-80's film feel; from the pink cursive font (Dirty Dancing, Risky Business) to the intermittently permeating synthetic music, to the formulaic and overly used montage scenes. Refn's use of these cliched devices contributed to a consistent tone of awkwardness and banality. Secondly, from the cinematographic style, to the multiple metaphors and motifs, to the utilization of silence as a recurring theme, to the character development; all felt forced into the film and thoughtlessly used. It is clear that Refn understood that all of these cinematic elements were necessary for a powerful film, and yet used them too frequently and without subtlety. Lastly, while it seems that Refn often attempted to emphasize silence and characterize through plain dialogue, it often left many scenes feeling unnecessary and artificial. I understand what ideas Refn might have been attempting to convey by directing Drive, but instead of providing insight into the human condition, he ended up making a movie that was chaotic and which appeared messy on many levels. Perhaps Refn was inspired to put too much into one feature length film, or perhaps he just could not decide what kind of movie he wanted to make, but Drive turned out to be unsubtle, fragmented, and lacking the necessary flow to allow the viewer to achieve the necessary; suspension of disbelief. Expand
3 of 11 users found this helpful38
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10
morgansageOct 2, 2011
One of the best films in the last 10 years. Amazing and a must see for this year. Gosling has a Steve McQueen esc vibe and intensity, with very few words throughout the entire film, but his character is beyond interesting and he is able toOne of the best films in the last 10 years. Amazing and a must see for this year. Gosling has a Steve McQueen esc vibe and intensity, with very few words throughout the entire film, but his character is beyond interesting and he is able to move the plot forward with a few glances to his love interest(Carey Mulligan). Brilliant film and one of the best I've seen in years. Big thanks to everyone who worked on putting this film together. Simply amazing... Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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9
QuamikazeOct 2, 2011
You know, considering that I walked out of "Drive" weak at the knees, with my heart still pounding in a worrying fashion and my hands sore from clenching them together for a good hour or so; I find it completely baffling that this movie'sYou know, considering that I walked out of "Drive" weak at the knees, with my heart still pounding in a worrying fashion and my hands sore from clenching them together for a good hour or so; I find it completely baffling that this movie's reception is as polarizing as it is with regular audiences. I think of this as one of the most intense action films made in a good long time, but most can't seem to get past the meditative exposition at all, so much the relatively simple plot structure (which, again, completely baffles me: action movies have no dire need to be as needlessly convoluted as "Transformers" or the "Star Wars" prequels; everyone needs a little "Die Hard" sometimes). It's at the point where I think there's a mutual hatred of the movie based off of its unique direction and popularity with critics. To put it bluntly: if you believe that anyone whose review score is lower than three, you are sadly mistaken. The movie is directed extremely well -- it is a very clean, very tight action film that contrasts the quiet nature of the movie's dialogue with the EXTREME violence (and I do mean extreme -- this is Peckinpah violent). Basically, if you want an action movie that is a little bit different from run-of-the-mill stuff, watch Drive. Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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0
Terryn79707Oct 2, 2011
Usually I agree with the critics, but this one was way off. Why would anyone pay to see people on screen doing nothing, intersperced with blood & violence. Did the writers take a week off? I go to a movie to take a break from reality, toUsually I agree with the critics, but this one was way off. Why would anyone pay to see people on screen doing nothing, intersperced with blood & violence. Did the writers take a week off? I go to a movie to take a break from reality, to be drawn into the story. How can one be drawn into a film with no dialogue and a bunch of brooding, poor attempts to trying to look pensive? I hate that I wasted my money and time on this lame film. Expand
3 of 11 users found this helpful38
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10
quarantined1Oct 2, 2011
movie feels like a still river where you can see the silence taking over you..... its an amazingmovie feels like a still river where you can see the silence taking over you..... its an amazing experience.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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10
BHOPESHOct 2, 2011
free download this movie at www.tenthgalaxy.com .........................................................................................................
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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4
RienyeOct 2, 2011
I'm getting sick of these near-silent movies punctuated with 4 minutes of dialogue every 15 minutes. And Drive falls into this category. Why doesn't anyone really talk unless they are getting beaten or shot. The premise of the movie is great,I'm getting sick of these near-silent movies punctuated with 4 minutes of dialogue every 15 minutes. And Drive falls into this category. Why doesn't anyone really talk unless they are getting beaten or shot. The premise of the movie is great, but the the screenplay is lacking and what you remain with is an empty movie with a few outstanding moments. All in all, Drive is better watched on a sick day..when u are actually sick and could care less what happens! Expand
13 of 37 users found this helpful1324
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9
novictimOct 1, 2011
Drive was brilliant. The themes it revisits still resonate, especially with men and with those well versed in film. The existential (anti)hero, the man with no name with a past, unrevealed, with a death wish on one final redemptive mission,Drive was brilliant. The themes it revisits still resonate, especially with men and with those well versed in film. The existential (anti)hero, the man with no name with a past, unrevealed, with a death wish on one final redemptive mission, brilliantly shot, acted and scored. The style is slick, 80s like, the violence stylized, cool, heartless, surreal, like Ballard. Gosling is perfect. The performance channels McQueen. The screenplay also kills, like a Paul Schrader, revisiting the light sleeper. The chase scenes were amazing, like Bullitt or The 7UPs, blissfully free of CGI. Great techno soundtrac to boot. Captures the Ballardian dystopia nicely. Best film I've seen in the last few years and would see it again. Expand
2 of 6 users found this helpful24
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7
Knicksfan7Oct 1, 2011
Ryan gosling is the next superstar actor, hes the young Brad pitt right now, hes got the looks, the muscles, and the acting talent. Hes now proved he can play the comedic role, the action star, and dramatic. Drive was a good film, quiet andRyan gosling is the next superstar actor, hes the young Brad pitt right now, hes got the looks, the muscles, and the acting talent. Hes now proved he can play the comedic role, the action star, and dramatic. Drive was a good film, quiet and silent for about 85% of the duration, but it was good. A bit of a drag at times, a little too quiet but Ryan gosling was superb again. The occasional action was good, pretty bloody at times, and can be a bit disturbing for someone who dislikes bloody scenes or someone with a weak stomach. Overall a good film, decent story, great acting, 7/10 Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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0
judypatriciaOct 1, 2011
Like many others, I registered an account here to add to the negative reviews. I cannot understand what it is about Drive that people enjoyed. At all. I am baffled by the overwhelmingly positive reviews and praise for its "suspense" andLike many others, I registered an account here to add to the negative reviews. I cannot understand what it is about Drive that people enjoyed. At all. I am baffled by the overwhelmingly positive reviews and praise for its "suspense" and "tension". Not once did I feel even a slight interest or attachment to any character, which I realized about ten minutes in, and hoped would change. Nope. I had gone to see this with another person, at a little independent theater, and at one point thought about walking out. Based on the gasps and chuckles and jolts of the surrounding move-goers, I think I was the only one in that little independent theater who hated what she saw. Drive is incredibly boring, unimportant, unimpressive, unemotional, and absolutely pointless. I wouldn't bother giving it another view, and wish I could take back the one I had. Expand
4 of 12 users found this helpful48
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6
enzogiovanniOct 1, 2011
I'll summarize this movie in a few short words: The actors are great. The music is fantastic. The camera is excellent. The rest is just for idiots.
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1 of 5 users found this helpful14
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10
shaunmedSep 30, 2011
if you have a soul, this movie will grip you from beginning to end. it burns a hole in your stomach with anticipation and fills it with hope. heartbreaking and honest.
4 of 9 users found this helpful45
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7
StevieGJDSep 30, 2011
"Modern film noir" may seem internally contradictory, but it aptly describes "Drive," which is at the same time an homage to many of the cliches of film noir, but also so ultra violent that it would not have been made during film noir's"Modern film noir" may seem internally contradictory, but it aptly describes "Drive," which is at the same time an homage to many of the cliches of film noir, but also so ultra violent that it would not have been made during film noir's heyday. Other than the violence, it is straight down the middle film noir. It was definitely worth seeing. But there are some major logical problems with the story (e.g., organized crime bosses who are constantly unguarded and who do all their own dirty work or the main character, who is one step ahead of everybody until the end, when something happens that everyone but him knows is going to happen). Those logical story issues aside, it is a highly stylized film that is really fun to watch. Gosling is great in the movie, and there are great supporting performances by Albert Brooks and Carrie Mulligan. But the music is (with one distinct exception) so annoyingly out of place that it is distracting in a way that one would not have expected from an otherwise well crafted film. Expand
1 of 5 users found this helpful14
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9
iamtheoneneoSep 30, 2011
great movie, not for everyone i agree and i think the trailer is perhaps misleading BUT it still doesnt stop this movie being a real work of art and something to feast your eyes over.
Yes its slow, yes its gory when action does happen but the
great movie, not for everyone i agree and i think the trailer is perhaps misleading BUT it still doesnt stop this movie being a real work of art and something to feast your eyes over.
Yes its slow, yes its gory when action does happen but the plot is interesting, the cast do a great job and the atmosphere is dripping throughout.
reminds me alot of collateral for some reason.....quite michael mann esc i guess! Go see but dont expecting it to plod along at 100mph , more like 10mph.
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0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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10
VeritasSep 28, 2011
I will echo Maga's typical old sheltered person response to this movie, as it is not for anyone over 40 that tries hard to stay away from this "new fangled" violence. News flash: movies and media has been bloody and gruesome for decades.I will echo Maga's typical old sheltered person response to this movie, as it is not for anyone over 40 that tries hard to stay away from this "new fangled" violence. News flash: movies and media has been bloody and gruesome for decades. Every generation thinks the new one is going to hell, so let's take a moment to not be so stupid to not see your own cliche. This movie IS violent, but it's your fault if you go to see a rated R movie not expecting to see a rated R movie. Sorry if big Howwywood warped your closeted widdle bwain. As for the movie, it was worth a double watch for me. Not many movies make it into that category, so it's definitely something special. It was worth watching the second time just to see my friend's reaction to the hotel scene (he didn't see it with me the first time.) This movie does miss on a few points, but it's definitely head and shoulders above the drivel that inhabits most movie theaters. A watch if you have a soul, if you can't stomach violence, DON'T SEE IT! Can't believe this point has to be made over and over.

-V
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1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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10
ybysaSep 28, 2011
This was the first movie in a long time that kept my interest for hours after I had already left the theatre. The music was tremendous, the pacing of the dialogue was brilliant, and the story was engaging. The violence was a bit over the topThis was the first movie in a long time that kept my interest for hours after I had already left the theatre. The music was tremendous, the pacing of the dialogue was brilliant, and the story was engaging. The violence was a bit over the top and the whole NASCAR sub-plot was necessary but a little far fetched. All in all, great movie. I'd recommend this movie to anyone with patience and without a squeamish stomach! Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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10
DenisssSep 28, 2011
Great great great movie, do not be fooled by the negative reviews by users self proclaimed "critics", they clearly have no idea what are talking about. 100 minutes passed like a moment, it is been a long time since I had this experience.Great great great movie, do not be fooled by the negative reviews by users self proclaimed "critics", they clearly have no idea what are talking about. 100 minutes passed like a moment, it is been a long time since I had this experience. Stylish, interesting, now it is officially in my top movies of all times list :) Expand
2 of 6 users found this helpful24
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8
jdmarcSep 27, 2011
Interesting look into a scarred anti-social individual who only feels alive, at first, when he exercises his automotive skills. The lack of dialog between the two leads was hard for me to accept, but the attraction and distance theyInteresting look into a scarred anti-social individual who only feels alive, at first, when he exercises his automotive skills. The lack of dialog between the two leads was hard for me to accept, but the attraction and distance they maintained seemed real. Movie looked great, soundtrack unique, acting by all impressive. Three excruciatingly violent scenes that only mirror the lack of humanity in the world these characters inhabit. Expand
4 of 7 users found this helpful43
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9
FIlmsareawesomeSep 27, 2011
Awesome Movie, I just loved the story of the whole film. Thank God they cast Ryan Gosling and Carey Mulligan, they were pretty much fantastic. The Soundtrack was insanely amazing, everything was awesome, i just really liked the film, goodAwesome Movie, I just loved the story of the whole film. Thank God they cast Ryan Gosling and Carey Mulligan, they were pretty much fantastic. The Soundtrack was insanely amazing, everything was awesome, i just really liked the film, good performances, shows the most important things in every scene, the action keeps it entertaining and it makes you wish for more, and Carey Mulligan is so damn adorable. One of the best films of this year. Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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3
DragonflySep 27, 2011
DRIVE started out with such promise, then quickly derailed - or should I say - went off the road, crashed and burned...? It's really a shame, too. It was trying to be a masterpiece, in the vein of KILL BILL, which coincidentally, I happenedDRIVE started out with such promise, then quickly derailed - or should I say - went off the road, crashed and burned...? It's really a shame, too. It was trying to be a masterpiece, in the vein of KILL BILL, which coincidentally, I happened to watch once again a week before seeing DRIVE. DRIVE is no KILL BILL. Thank you, Quentin Tarantino, for reminding me of how great you are! In the end I found DRIVE pretentious. And poor Carey Mulligan. So underutilized. As for Ryan Gosling's character, what's his name?...Oh, that's right, he had no name! Expand
4 of 12 users found this helpful48
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6
TVJerrySep 27, 2011
Ryan Gosling is into cars: he's a mechanic, a stunt driver and a getaway driver.
But, this film is not a high-energy, action heist flick. It's a slow, gloomy, violent crime drama. His ill-fated attraction to Carey Mulligan sets the
Ryan Gosling is into cars: he's a mechanic, a stunt driver and a getaway driver.
But, this film is not a high-energy, action heist flick. It's a slow, gloomy, violent crime drama. His ill-fated attraction to Carey Mulligan sets the unfortunate circumstances in motion, again, very slowly. Gosling plays what he's best known for: a brooding and intense man of few words, but it's Albert Brooks (cast against his comic type as a mob boss) who's the most fun. Director Nicolas Winding Refn loves these intense films ("Valhalla Rising" was his last), but this one is trying too hard to be modern noir and feels heavy-handed and pretentious. Still, it's a darkly compelling experience.
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0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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8
Stephchan1901Sep 26, 2011
Great Film, and a damn good soundtrack. If Albert Brooks doesn't get nominated for at least a Globe, it would be a crime. Love the way it maintains a love story through so much violence, I mean Ryan Gosling gives the man in the elevator aGreat Film, and a damn good soundtrack. If Albert Brooks doesn't get nominated for at least a Globe, it would be a crime. Love the way it maintains a love story through so much violence, I mean Ryan Gosling gives the man in the elevator a beating of a lifetime. Expand
2 of 7 users found this helpful25
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2
robbsreviewSep 26, 2011
Terrible acting, gratuitous violence and very few chase scenes. The script must have been put together by a committee and directed by an amateur. This movie didn't deserve a 79 Metacritic score. It deserved 7.9.
0 of 5 users found this helpful05
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10
ZacharyMatsonSep 25, 2011
There's no doubt about it, this is one of the best films of the year. I definitely think this will get a lot of Oscar attention, and if it doesn't then I'll be very shocked. It's not for everyone, if you're more of a mainstream, happy endingThere's no doubt about it, this is one of the best films of the year. I definitely think this will get a lot of Oscar attention, and if it doesn't then I'll be very shocked. It's not for everyone, if you're more of a mainstream, happy ending kind of person, stick to movies like Dolphin Tale. This is very art house style so expect it to be a bit abnormal compared to what you would normally see at a theater. Gosling gives a great performance and Refn directs this film masterfully. Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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2
LionhardtzSep 25, 2011
This movie started good but dragged on so slowly for most of film. The acting and characters were great but this was my worst experience ever at the theaters. Boring boring boring. I can't understand how its gettin such good reviews.
1 of 6 users found this helpful15
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10
musicmann1967Sep 25, 2011
Fantastic film.. Definitely caught me by surprise.. At first Goslings silent persona routine seemed a little bit retarded to me.. (my fault, not his).. Then it all snapped into place for me and it was a slam bang, over the top ride. I loveFantastic film.. Definitely caught me by surprise.. At first Goslings silent persona routine seemed a little bit retarded to me.. (my fault, not his).. Then it all snapped into place for me and it was a slam bang, over the top ride. I love these kind of movies. Very very stylized and left of center. Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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9
wordy_actionsSep 24, 2011
Minor Spoilers
Usually 'car chases' and 'thought provoking' are phrases that don't occur in the same movie review. Drive, staring Ryan Gosling, is both. Let's start with the most obviously good thing about the movie, which is Ryan Gosling's
Minor Spoilers
Usually 'car chases' and 'thought provoking' are phrases that don't occur in the same movie review. Drive, staring Ryan Gosling, is both. Let's start with the most obviously good thing about the movie, which is Ryan Gosling's performance. Gosling plays an understated character who's motivations are well concealed (at least in the beginning of the movie). Do not go into this movie expecting an action/thriller. This movie is more of a character study of Ryan Gosling's character, whose only referred to as the driver. No name is mentioned during the film. The film has a very strong message about what we should value. It's a strong message, but a somewhat subtle one, and they don't force it on the audience. This movie builds tension well, having long scenes of character development with little dialogue suddenly interrupted by violence. The contrast is startling and exciting, though some of the slowness in the dialogue grows old fast. Fortunately, by the time I was starting to grow bored with the movie it abruptly shifted into its second half, which is much better in my opinion. While the first half mainly dealt with Gosling's relationships with Carey Mulligan's character, her son, and her husband, the second half has Gosling tying up the lose ends of a botched robbery. Needless to say, things become violent. This movie shows the consequences and dangers of caring for someone unconditionally, as well as the rewards for doing so. 8/10. 4/5.
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0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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10
Gloomy_nesSep 24, 2011
I cannot believe that some people give this movie a 1 or 0, how mindless and full of **** can you be to NOT understand the art and feelings this movie evokes? How can you even say that you fell asleep during this movie? That just means you'reI cannot believe that some people give this movie a 1 or 0, how mindless and full of **** can you be to NOT understand the art and feelings this movie evokes? How can you even say that you fell asleep during this movie? That just means you're an idiot, Im sorry but some of the same people who find this movie boring are the same who enjoy Transformers so much ad support Hollywood throwing out so many mindless movies for idiots who suck it up. Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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7
dylancampbellSep 24, 2011
Not what I expected at all going into this movie (the trailer makes it seem like more of an action movie) but I really liked it nonetheless. The performances were solid, the script was well paced, and the cinematography was superb.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
jeremypSep 24, 2011
An American film noir (reminiscent of the best of the 50's) that, while well oiled and at times mesmerizing, visits a familiar plot with familiar characters and a familiar building denouement. The violence when it comes half way through isAn American film noir (reminiscent of the best of the 50's) that, while well oiled and at times mesmerizing, visits a familiar plot with familiar characters and a familiar building denouement. The violence when it comes half way through is sudden, brutal, and gory, and unfortunately gets repeated again and again. I would have preferred more car chases.

The ending goes counter to what we are led to believe will happen: the hero, up to then ahead of the violence, turns his back on certain attack, and then we get a long,long teasing shot of him. Is he dead, is he alive? There are many slow mo shots, and the one in an elevator is particularly head shakingly drawn out.

The biggest sin is to give Carey Mulligan little to do except look pained and imprisoned. The second biggest sin is to cram Christina Hendricks into Jeans and leotards, and then to have the camera follow her. I know, I know, it's meant to be realistic. Gosling does his patented terse, coiled spring, maimed persona, and it works.
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0 of 4 users found this helpful04
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10
RichBlackSep 24, 2011
Irene: What do you do?
The Driver: I drive, for movies.
Irene: Is that dangerous? The Driver: It's only part time. Refn turns his career into a profession, when directing one gut wrenching cinematic experience. Drive is a great way to save
Irene: What do you do?
The Driver: I drive, for movies.
Irene: Is that dangerous?
The Driver: It's only part time. Refn turns his career into a profession, when directing one gut wrenching cinematic experience. Drive is a great way to save 2011's reputation from awful films, filled up with awesome car chases and gory action that will make you jump out of your seat, starting with the very beginning.

A placid looking man works at two things, stunt driving for movies, and escorting robbers in heists. One day his friend Shannon introduces him to Bernie Rose, who wants him for his stock car design. Meanwhile he meets his next-door neighbor Irene, and can't help but fall in love with her. But after helping out Irene and her son, the Driver soon finds out that her husband, Standard, was returning from prison. Soon after arriving, He witnesses Standard being beat up by thugs from his prison, and says that he owes them 10,000 dollars shortly or they'll get to his son and wife. The Driver assuring that he won't let that happen, helps him get that money by doing a heist with him. But then everything goes wrong, leaving it up to the driver to look for the boss of these thugs and make sure Irene and her son are safe.

The score gives the movie a "new age" kind of look to it, but it was so creative, and perfectly matched up with the film, especially "Nightcall" by kavinsky, and "A Real Hero" by College. It also makes me look back at Hobo with a Shotgun, being gory and having that eighties resemblance, even though they're nothing alike. Nicolas Winding Refn is new to me (not seeing his earlier work), but when seeing this, there's no doubt in my mind that this guy can make it to the top.

Ryan Gosling is at his best so far, giving his lead role as the Driver. Albert does an amazing performance also, playing Bernie Rose, and creates the gruesome and grisly turns throughout the movie. All the other actors were also magnificent, such as Ron Perlman (Nino), Carey Mulligan (Irene), Bryan Cranston (Shannon), and Oscar Isaac (Standard). The Part that surprised me the most was probably in his apartment with Blanche, which sets off an amazing and unsettling switch to it. Everything was so mesmerizing that I couldn't even turn away, because every second was worth watching.
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0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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2
DLCSep 24, 2011
I've always found the ratings on Metacritic to be reliable -- but not this time. Like some other have said, the opening scene is very well done, and sets the stage for an action-thriller. I thought the movie would play more on theI've always found the ratings on Metacritic to be reliable -- but not this time. Like some other have said, the opening scene is very well done, and sets the stage for an action-thriller. I thought the movie would play more on the Jekyll-Hyde motif -- a stunt driver by day and an off duty getaway driver for heists. Instead he meets "the girl" 5 minutes into the movie and soon we see him playing "temporary step dad" to her son. These scenes with the three of them seem to go on forever and at the same time go nowhere. What follows is an array of confusing and brutally violent scenes, with the love story taking a back seat. In sum, the story is not well developed...period. I suspect the "art lovers" giving this movie high ratings are the type who like to go to art galleries to see paintings with random splotches. If that's your thing, enjoy! I will give props to Gosling -- he was very intriguing from the opening but unfortunately wasn't given the story to build his character on. Expand
4 of 13 users found this helpful49
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1
A_List_ProducerSep 24, 2011
Brutal, slow, and pathetic with good acting from Brian but a movie with no plot, or life. Boring parts, gory parts but all in all, all parts of this movie waste your time and money. I would rather have stayed home and played with the dog, asBrutal, slow, and pathetic with good acting from Brian but a movie with no plot, or life. Boring parts, gory parts but all in all, all parts of this movie waste your time and money. I would rather have stayed home and played with the dog, as would the dog.

In my opinion one would have to be paid by the studios to give this movie a good review. Worst movie I have seen in many years.
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3 of 9 users found this helpful36
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9
ShyfoxSep 23, 2011
Shot gorgeously, terrific acting, and compelling yet semi-believable chase scenes. I enjoyed the hell out of it. I don't know how this is too "artsy", except in comparison to crap like Transformers or Final Destination. I've seen movies thatShot gorgeously, terrific acting, and compelling yet semi-believable chase scenes. I enjoyed the hell out of it. I don't know how this is too "artsy", except in comparison to crap like Transformers or Final Destination. I've seen movies that are too artsy, they definetly exist- most of them are pretentious film festival entries or indie dramas. Worst you could say about Drive is that there are some awkward silences. So yeah, awesome film. Expand
5 of 8 users found this helpful53
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10
TheoSSep 23, 2011
The first thing worth mentioning about Drive is the superb cinematography! Every single second has it's purpose, mostly in building Ryan Gosling's character, who doesn't surprise you a bit when he gets his hands dirty. His character gets itsThe first thing worth mentioning about Drive is the superb cinematography! Every single second has it's purpose, mostly in building Ryan Gosling's character, who doesn't surprise you a bit when he gets his hands dirty. His character gets its features using the supporting actors, who perform beautifly (especially Bryan Cranston and Albert Brooks) in unveiling the mystery that is Driver.
There are so many aspects to discus on this film, but I just can't find my words right now. The apparent slow evolution of aspects builds a strong tension between characters which in the end bursts in the most shocking ways. Those long pauses that people mostly complained about are the film's highest qualities as it makes everything seem more believable.
All in all, it's a film that is worth watching over and over, just for the simple fact that it makes you feel apart of the story.
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0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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10
DarshykSep 23, 2011
I cannot comprehend how everyone can decry a movie because of its apparent 'artiness.' Movies are art, they are about more than just telling a story and seeing a guy's head implode. The silences are not without purpose, they are really quiteI cannot comprehend how everyone can decry a movie because of its apparent 'artiness.' Movies are art, they are about more than just telling a story and seeing a guy's head implode. The silences are not without purpose, they are really quite powerful. That this move can be so great with so little dialogue says loads about the direction and acting. This is by no means a boring movie. I guess some people lack the intelligence to understand the subtleties of this truly brilliant movie. Expand
5 of 9 users found this helpful54
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9
BenardenSep 22, 2011
The first 5 minutes of "Drive" is Worth the price of admission ( 6 bucks, if your askin' ) stylish photography, tense, terse with several brilliant scenes within; but the " Art House Gore" in lieu of a more solid script mars the effort. RatedThe first 5 minutes of "Drive" is Worth the price of admission ( 6 bucks, if your askin' ) stylish photography, tense, terse with several brilliant scenes within; but the " Art House Gore" in lieu of a more solid script mars the effort. Rated "R" ( Nudity, language, unsafe driving practices ) "X" for Violence;- - and never, EVER pose a threat to this young mans Girlfriend. Expand
5 of 8 users found this helpful53
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9
Las7Sep 22, 2011
I thought it was a very good movie, a lot of really fantastic portraits and emotions relayed through great acting and brilliant camera work . It was very disappointing that it wasn't marketing correctly, once again other people within theI thought it was a very good movie, a lot of really fantastic portraits and emotions relayed through great acting and brilliant camera work . It was very disappointing that it wasn't marketing correctly, once again other people within the cinema ruined the experience for me. This is not Transporter so for the love of god don't go to see this movie if you are expecting something similar.

If you feel that sometimes less is more and enjoy movies which focus on developing realistic charters and show realistic relationships between them this is the movie for you. The violence was a footnote for me a plot device in a way, wasn't too bothered by it.

The supporting cast really were fantastic, I believe one of them would be a front runner in this year's Award Season - I'm not sure about Gosling, the "Driver" was in a lot of ways simply a driving force for the fates of these people all stuck in different situations out of which there is no easy getaway. He remained "nameless" through out the film which really accents over the real story I believe the movie told. To all the supporting cast he was a figure of omnipotence, giving what each craved or deserved but his actions brought grave ramifications.

For me at least this movie lived up to the hype but I don't believe it's Gosling's best work - but that's the way the role is scripted. A definite contender for movie of the year
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0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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10
hidanianSep 21, 2011
Hands down best movie I've seen this year, no doubt! This movie has it all: well thought out story, good action scenes, amazing soundtrack and great actors. Ryan Gosling totally ruled as the nameless main character.
2 of 6 users found this helpful24
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8
geegingerSep 21, 2011
I am loving Ryan Gosling and I really enjoyed this movie. The action (gore) scenes were taut especially in contrast to the "long awkward pause" scenes. The cinematography was great and really made you feel like you were in the scene. GreatI am loving Ryan Gosling and I really enjoyed this movie. The action (gore) scenes were taut especially in contrast to the "long awkward pause" scenes. The cinematography was great and really made you feel like you were in the scene. Great characters! Albert Brooks (?), yes, it worked! The one thing that bothered me was the soundtrack, which I am usually totally unaware of, that seemed to well up and remind you that you were watching a movie. Expand
2 of 6 users found this helpful24
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10
GilmoreSep 20, 2011
This movie is truly amazing! The acting is top notch and the soundtrack is one of the greatest that I have ever heard. I've been reading alot of negative reviews mainly because it was boring and didn't have enough action or some stupid crap.This movie is truly amazing! The acting is top notch and the soundtrack is one of the greatest that I have ever heard. I've been reading alot of negative reviews mainly because it was boring and didn't have enough action or some stupid crap. Well if your one of those people than yes go see transformers 3 because it will for sure have more action. This movie is purely psychological and most of the acting is expressed through emotion so you do not have much dialogue. However, i think that is what makes it so unique. I've never seen anything as cool as Drive in a long time. I bought the soundtrack ASAP and that night listened to it while driving in my car at excessive speeds. Awesome! See it! Expand
2 of 6 users found this helpful24
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1
JGSSep 20, 2011
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I have also just created a Metacritic account for the sole purpose of lending my voice to the sane, thinking, critical people who see past the stylish facade and realize that Drive is a bad film. A subterfuge of aesthetics covering up a dull pastiche of cliches. I went in ready to fall in love; neo-noir-ish elements? The Gos? A stylish looking thriller? I figured it couldn't miss. And yes, the first five minutes showed promise. But, for starters, I actually think Gosling did not work in this role; he's very charming and I think this is why people seem to have liked his character. But in reality, all we are given is a mono-syllabic killer; a dull, violent creep. Which is FINE, that could work. Except, it's far from "hero/lover/surrogate dad" mantle that the film is also struggling to hoist on him. A very confused follow-through of what I assume was a pretty great book/initial idea for the film What part did fans like best? The abandoned race car driver subplot that no seemed interested in anyway? The way that Gosling dons a mask for no practical reason to carry out one of his killings? When that other car shows up mid-robbery for no purpose? (oh, they were going to pull the double-cross on the side of the highway? Smart thinking). That Hendrick's role consists solely of getting slapped by our "hero" and then getting her head blown off? Did you like the gritty realism of Carey Mulligan's 90s-emo-pixie-girl-who-also-works-at-Denny's-and-has-a-husband-in-prison aesthetic? It was so beautiful when the Gos turned that guy's head into mush in front of her, wasn't it? Did you like how the characters (besides Gosling who, ooh! has a trademark toothpick! Cool!) explained who they were in tight, little speeches so we all knew where we stood? Albert Brooks's hands are "dirty" too! From all the violence he carries out as a mobster. Get it?! Oh wait, maybe you liked the soundtrack. Ah yes, you know when the chilled out blissful tune plays and the singer says: "A real human being and a real hero,". I just love stuff you don't have to think too much about, you know? (It would be like if in Top Gun, while "Highway to the Danger Zone" was playing, Maverick and Goose were on an actual highway passing a sign that said "Danger Zone, 20 miles away") To like this movie is to be easily fooled or just playing it safe to stay on the right side of the prevailing critical response. And, don't worry, you are not alone if you read these response and started to feel like "Maybe I didn't get it?" But there is nothing to get. I do love that beautiful Gosling, but you know, sometimes the ones we love... Expand
6 of 17 users found this helpful611
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10
j30Sep 20, 2011
You're either going to love or hate this movie, as you can see from the user reviews already. Fantastic film, great on so many levels. Thank God it wasn't a Hugh Jackman Fast and the Furious film, as it was planned before Ryan Gosling got theYou're either going to love or hate this movie, as you can see from the user reviews already. Fantastic film, great on so many levels. Thank God it wasn't a Hugh Jackman Fast and the Furious film, as it was planned before Ryan Gosling got the lead. In addition he personally chose director Nicolas Winding Refn.. However, more users would have liked it if Michael Bay directed and Hugh Jackman staring. Expand
38 of 51 users found this helpful3813
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7
RossSep 19, 2011
Just a beautifully photographed film and the music/sound effects...one of the most stimulating sound tracks in recent years. The lighting and overall compositions give the film a kind of depth of meaning that is seldom seen in mainstreamJust a beautifully photographed film and the music/sound effects...one of the most stimulating sound tracks in recent years. The lighting and overall compositions give the film a kind of depth of meaning that is seldom seen in mainstream films anymore. Having said all that, I found the ending a tad unsatisfying and I have to admit that the main character's laconic-ism got a little annoying towards the end! Okay, yes, his actions and facial expressions (and, again, the compositions) speak volumes about his interior angst but my goodness at some point we need some actual (cathartic) expression as well! Still, loved it.... Expand
2 of 6 users found this helpful24
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1
mindoculusSep 19, 2011
The director made more of a homage to film noir than a film. Its all mood and style, with little dialogue worth mentioning. By far the most maddening aspect is how little is said. Gosling just stares, nods his head, shows a supposedly knowingThe director made more of a homage to film noir than a film. Its all mood and style, with little dialogue worth mentioning. By far the most maddening aspect is how little is said. Gosling just stares, nods his head, shows a supposedly knowing gaze that the director feels is enough communication. Well, no. The violence is gross and jarring in an uncool way. It detracts from the movie because you get tired of being led around by one music sequence after another. This is a long boring music montage stitched together with a few words and dull gazes. Expand
3 of 13 users found this helpful310
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0
greatgreat222Sep 19, 2011
Trash of a film. I repeat. Trash. Horrible. Great acting, but NO PLOT! Lacks so, so much. Worst movie of the year thus far. As fulfilling as starting at a wall.
4 of 14 users found this helpful410
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0
thebigscreenSep 19, 2011
"listen2themovie" and "memphisfeast" have it right. The artsy-ness of this movie tries to distract you from how lifeless the plot is but instead make things worse. It really is one of the worst cases imaginable of critics bait.
18 of 51 users found this helpful1833
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