Drive

3

listen2themovieSep 19, 2011

The greatest flaw of "Drive" is not it's obscenely short script, nor is it how cliche and mundane the film is. The biggest flaw is certainly not the acting or cinematography, both are terrific- they make the movie almost bearable. The movieThe greatest flaw of "Drive" is not it's obscenely short script, nor is it how cliche and mundane the film is. The biggest flaw is certainly not the acting or cinematography, both are terrific- they make the movie almost bearable. The movie may lack plot, pace and believability. But no- the biggest flaw is far greater than the sum of its parts. It is the desperation. The immense attempt that a young director makes to lure the audience. Pulsing techno, old school pauses that exist for their own sake, slow motion music-video-esk shots that occur at random moments. They are all meaningless. A movie without a plot cannot be saved by artsy fillers. They fail to captivate and create a bigger problem and a larger distraction than the mundane plot does from the unrealistic nature of the film.… Expand

7 of 19 users found this helpful712

All this user's reviews

0

roadshowscholarSep 19, 2011

While most people dislike this movie for the obvious reasons- it lacks dialogue, creativity and plot and it is slow moving and cliche- I dislike much more strongly because none of it felt believable. It was all so glossy and manicured withWhile most people dislike this movie for the obvious reasons- it lacks dialogue, creativity and plot and it is slow moving and cliche- I dislike much more strongly because none of it felt believable. It was all so glossy and manicured with catchy techno music, but no scene felt like it could ever happen the way it did- from start to finish. It was trying to be ridiculous but came off so over the top that it fell, very hard and very flat. I'm with the previous haters. Drive was AWFUL.… Expand

11 of 29 users found this helpful1118

All this user's reviews

1

memphisfeastSep 19, 2011

After seeing this movie, I was first a little taken aback to discover how popular it was among the critics. I then realized why- they were attracted to its very obvious qualities of artsy-ness. It is as "TomProCritic" says. They responded toAfter seeing this movie, I was first a little taken aback to discover how popular it was among the critics. I then realized why- they were attracted to its very obvious qualities of artsy-ness. It is as "TomProCritic" says. They responded to its artsy qualities- a few: long pauses for no reason, hesitation, unique camera angels, the use of techno and modern music, a kid who is not very childish...etc. The movie was dull. If you don't respond to hollow artsy crap, it falls flat. I only give it credit for having some truly terrific actors.… Expand

26 of 65 users found this helpful2639

All this user's reviews

1

TomProCriticSep 19, 2011

This film resembles a classic case of "Bait Art" common in contemporary filmmaking, especially among young directors. They lure in film critics who are overwhelmed by a wide range of intense hollywood cinema and give them somethingThis film resembles a classic case of "Bait Art" common in contemporary filmmaking, especially among young directors. They lure in film critics who are overwhelmed by a wide range of intense hollywood cinema and give them something digestible- a slow moving, short scripted, uneventful film- market it as artsy and put in some artsy music and artsy shots to complete the picture. Drive, for the rest of us, is nothing more than a ridiculously forgettable movie with some great actors. The film is painfully slow, painfully cliche and above all overdramatic in delivery. It never feels real. Made for the elitist critics, not for people like us.… Expand

28 of 74 users found this helpful2846

All this user's reviews

0

BenjaminStassoSep 19, 2011

Really, really bad. Totally dull and hard to follow. Script was a paragraph long. Lacked plot. Easily one of the least fulfilling movies of the year.

8 of 23 users found this helpful815

All this user's reviews

0

SammetsfanSep 19, 2011

Drive is total critics bait. Classic case of trying very hard to be loved. One of the worst movies of 2011. Predictable, cliche and overdramatic. Lacked plot.

11 of 25 users found this helpful1114

All this user's reviews

6

RazvSep 19, 2011

Mediocre. I didn't go in expecting action, i knew it will be a slow-paced, artistic movie. However, i expected more both on the psychological part and on the emotional part. It was dull and mediocre on all levels, except for the artisticMediocre. I didn't go in expecting action, i knew it will be a slow-paced, artistic movie. However, i expected more both on the psychological part and on the emotional part. It was dull and mediocre on all levels, except for the artistic part, visually, i found it very good. Good actors too.… Expand

1 of 5 users found this helpful14

All this user's reviews

10

kings7Sep 19, 2011

+Gosling is compelling. +The soundtrack is amazing. +Supporting cast is well-acted and adds to the realism.
+It is subtle and not mainstream (which can be a good or bad thing depending on the type of movie-goer you are).
-The story is good,+Gosling is compelling. +The soundtrack is amazing. +Supporting cast is well-acted and adds to the realism.
+It is subtle and not mainstream (which can be a good or bad thing depending on the type of movie-goer you are).

-The story is good, but had more potential than it used.

Overall: Highly recommended for people who can think beyond what's happening on the screen and actually have some intelligence.… Expand

8 of 15 users found this helpful87

All this user's reviews

1

pcgSep 19, 2011

Awful. The first scene is good, and might even be great if it weren't followed by 90 minutes of frustrating, boring (and, occasionally, nauseating) cinema. The acting feels like it tries to be minimalistic, pensive, and mysterious; it comeAwful. The first scene is good, and might even be great if it weren't followed by 90 minutes of frustrating, boring (and, occasionally, nauseating) cinema. The acting feels like it tries to be minimalistic, pensive, and mysterious; it come off as dull, wooden, and self-important. The movie doesn't go anywhere and doesn't say anything, and remains a "style over substance" effort. Unfortunately, even the style is confusing at best: the pink lipstick credits, the Casio synth sound, the cheesy "Thunderdome"-style power ballad... if this movie had been made in the 80s, it might have some B-movie credibility. As a movie made 20 years after the 80s ended, Drive feels bewildering and artificial. And that's not even to say anything about the degrading, absurd violence; you don't have to be "faint of heart" to be disgusted with the blood spillage in Drive.

I rarely have such a visceral reaction to a movie as I did with Drive. I could not for the life of me understand why such a movie is even made, as it is an exercise in empty style... and a D effort at that.… Expand

11 of 29 users found this helpful1118

All this user's reviews

7

BikerjamesSep 19, 2011

What a strange movie. People just stare at each other for what seems like hours before they speak, if they speak at all. I thought the film was going to be driving and chase scenes, and there were a couple of those, but it is mostly a quasiWhat a strange movie. People just stare at each other for what seems like hours before they speak, if they speak at all. I thought the film was going to be driving and chase scenes, and there were a couple of those, but it is mostly a quasi mob movie. It is VERY slow in parts. It is strange seeing Albert Brooks in a mobster role. Every time he spoke I thought of the father fish in Finding Nemo! All the actors, including Brooks, do a good job, however. There were some great scenes in the movie (the opening drive sequence, the motel shoot-out), and some ridiculous scenes (the mask, some of the dialogue, the music/songs, the elevator kiss, people's reactions to things), but at least the movie is different and not the usual predictable Hollywood fair. Lastly, this is a very violent, gory movie. It goes from very serene to explosive quickly. Overall I recommend it, the good outweighs the bad.… Expand

1 of 8 users found this helpful17

All this user's reviews

10

Khunter4382Sep 19, 2011

Excellent! Gosling gives a great performance along with an especially strong supporting cast. Mulligan and Cranston are great and Brooks and Perlman are totally convincing. This movie felt "cool". I was completely focused on the story whichExcellent! Gosling gives a great performance along with an especially strong supporting cast. Mulligan and Cranston are great and Brooks and Perlman are totally convincing. This movie felt "cool". I was completely focused on the story which reaches moments of tenderness and brutality with great cinematic style and finesse. When I saw Gosling appear in this film, I kept thinking back to the classic veterans of the film industry such as Marlon Brando, James Dean, or Steve McQueen. He completely embodies this role and he does so with a very calm but focused reserve. The score is spectacular and is such an integral part of this story! This one will definitely be in my collection!… Expand

4 of 9 users found this helpful45

All this user's reviews

10

LeonTh3DukeSep 19, 2011

Surprising that anyone commenting on it being a series of meaningless images and boring scenes or mentioning the silences calling them pointless, even bothered to review a film they shouldn't have seen to begin with. It is quite clear thatSurprising that anyone commenting on it being a series of meaningless images and boring scenes or mentioning the silences calling them pointless, even bothered to review a film they shouldn't have seen to begin with. It is quite clear that some don't seem to be capable or maybe do not want to understand and look deeper than the obvious, which is the usual for these sorts of art-house films. â… Expand

4 of 10 users found this helpful46

All this user's reviews

0

MartinLeafSep 18, 2011

To understand the appeal of Drive, one has to understand the European mindset. Europe today is manifest by an anti western ideology. That means that there is dislike - enmity, for America, Israel, and of course Jews. Keep in mind that theTo understand the appeal of Drive, one has to understand the European mindset. Europe today is manifest by an anti western ideology. That means that there is dislike - enmity, for America, Israel, and of course Jews. Keep in mind that the intellectuals in France, at the Cannes film festival, gave Drive a standing ovation. That is why, for example, there are two conspicuous Jews in the movie. And those Jews manifest every false negative stereotype that Nazi propaganda could come up with. There was no legitimate reason for this in the movie. It was just a cheap gratuitous attempt at Jew bashing. Similarly, all of the characters have a dark side, although they are much more nuanced and human than the two Jews, who are devoid of humanity in this film. There is some laughable concept of cool that these European intellectuals aspire to, including apparently the director and the writer of the screenplay. But however hard they may try, those responsible for Drive did not create a cool movie: Rather a boring, empty, meandering series of images, that never coalesce into anything worthwhile, or exciting. As for the critics that rave about this movie, they are so far out of touch with the average American that they might as well be in Europe, where they too can pretend to be intellectuals out of touch with reality.… Expand

4 of 17 users found this helpful413

All this user's reviews

2

BManSep 18, 2011

I was looking forward to the movie after reading critic reviews and seeing the cast. I am sorry but I do not get it. i do not understand what all of the critics are raving about. Maybe they saw another movie called Drive because they couldI was looking forward to the movie after reading critic reviews and seeing the cast. I am sorry but I do not get it. i do not understand what all of the critics are raving about. Maybe they saw another movie called Drive because they could not of seen the movie I saw today. Slow, boring, predictable, horrible script, bad music and sound editing, poor acting... That about sums up what I can honestly say is the worst movie I have seen since Joe and the Volcano. And ever patron in the theater seemed to be of the same opinion. IF you must see it, wait for it to come out on pay per view so you can turn it off in the comfort of your own home. Cinematography as nice...… Expand

4 of 14 users found this helpful410

All this user's reviews

10

FinnaticSep 18, 2011

Ryan Gosling scores another winner with this compellingly atmospheric drama/thriller hybrid. Ryan plays an emotionally detached character, Driver, who has a simple 5 minute rule. You hire him, and he's there for you completely for 5Ryan Gosling scores another winner with this compellingly atmospheric drama/thriller hybrid. Ryan plays an emotionally detached character, Driver, who has a simple 5 minute rule. You hire him, and he's there for you completely for 5 minutes. Anything a minute either side of that, and you are on your own. What a setup! There's not a lot of dialogue from Driver, but what there is is acted out so well and glues you to your seat. The perfectly tuned soundtrack serves as another character in the film, helping to steer the action and heighten the emotion of the film. I can't say that I've ever seen a movie quite like Drive before. Sure, there are some similarities to other movies. The soundtrack alone reminds me of something out of Michael Mann's earlier works. But there's more here than even the pieces of homages to other times could possibly add up to make. There's been discussion about the very 80's lipstick font chosen for the titles of the film. I think this was done purposely, to evoke memories of another time. Drive will transport you away from the everyday into a taut and tense emotional vehicle that will leave you wanting more by the time it all inevitably ends. Highly recommended and not to be missed! See you at the popcorn stand.… Expand

5 of 11 users found this helpful56

All this user's reviews

1

Moose_NutsSep 18, 2011

This movie was the worst movie I've seen all summer, and that's saying something considering how abysmal the selection of new movies has been over the last 3 months. I give the first 5 minutes of the movie a 10, but the rest gets a 0...so itThis movie was the worst movie I've seen all summer, and that's saying something considering how abysmal the selection of new movies has been over the last 3 months. I give the first 5 minutes of the movie a 10, but the rest gets a 0...so it averages out to less than 1, but I decided to be generous and round up. I was in a similar theater to the ones other reviewers mentioned....the EXCESSIVELY pregnant pauses at bewildering points in the movie go so far beyond creating thoughtful contemplation in the viewers that eventually they begin to moan or laugh every time there is this awkward silence. And I need to emphasize how awkward and unrewarding you feel after 5 or so of these occurrences. It's as if your friends invite you to a party on your birthday...you show up expecting a surprise, but you open the door to a dark house. After standing there uncomfortably for 20 seconds, you flick on the light to see everyone has already eaten their cake (or, rather, stomped it into a puree in the back of an elevator), then they all walk past you to leave.… Expand

4 of 16 users found this helpful412

All this user's reviews

5

nvnickSep 18, 2011

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. So I just came home from watching a late night screening of this film. First thing off the bat, there was almost no dialogue between the protagonist and central characters. Even the "Bad Guys" and side characters seemed to have more dialogue. In general there was barely any dialogue in the entire movie, as a matter of fact. Does that take away from movie? That is debatable. This film seems to portray crime in a very negative light, from my perspective. The beginning is mellow and shows the inherent goodwill of the protagonist "Driver", and his attempts to protect those he cares about. The film really did a good job creating the bonds between these characters - the driver, Irene and her son. Halfway through the movie, I was thinking "Wow, they've set this up well. Here comes the action part." I was thinking that much like other thrillers like "Taken", the back story had been set up and the movie would become more fast-paced. After all, it's supposed to be an action movie. To my dismay, it was still slow, not much action but very gruesome. If you're looking for your standard popcorn action movie this is simply not it. The ending of this movie was sudden and left many loose ends. The movie had a message, but it wasn't much to end on. Secondly, the ending was very anti-climatic and dull. Overall, I found this movie entertaining. The soundtrack always seemed to fit in nicely, the cinematography, and slow motion sequences were great. But, ultimately it left something to be desired. Left the theater with a mixed "meh" feeling. 6/10… Expand

2 of 7 users found this helpful25

All this user's reviews

8

CitizenCharlieSep 18, 2011

The driver in Drive is just that, he drives. He has no past and even no name. One would guess prison was a part of his past but that is just a guess. The driver only has two distinguishing characteristics, he is extremely adept behind theThe driver in Drive is just that, he drives. He has no past and even no name. One would guess prison was a part of his past but that is just a guess. The driver only has two distinguishing characteristics, he is extremely adept behind the wheel of a car and he wears a strikingly odd white jacket with an orange scorpion on the back. The scorpionâ… Expand

2 of 9 users found this helpful27

All this user's reviews

10

tankwilliamsSep 18, 2011

One of the best movies I've seen in a long while. Possibly my favorite movie. Incredibly stylish, has a phenomenal score, has a creative and brilliant plot, and does a great job of character development, besides the driver. The driver hasOne of the best movies I've seen in a long while. Possibly my favorite movie. Incredibly stylish, has a phenomenal score, has a creative and brilliant plot, and does a great job of character development, besides the driver. The driver has no backstory. The driver has no name. The driver is a mystery, and that adds to the movie incredibly. This film isn't an action flick, it isn't a drama, its a genre-less movie, but thats a good thing. This film is incredibly gorey, so if you can't stand a little blood, I don't recommend this for you. Otherwise, you are in for a treat.… Expand

2 of 7 users found this helpful25

All this user's reviews

9

Hensch2475Sep 17, 2011

I thought this movie would be a non-stop action fest but its not anywhere close to that. This is my surprise movie of the year. Good plot, emotional and pretty good acting. I thought Gosling was great in this film, except when it came toI thought this movie would be a non-stop action fest but its not anywhere close to that. This is my surprise movie of the year. Good plot, emotional and pretty good acting. I thought Gosling was great in this film, except when it came to dialogue with the female lead, those scenes were awkward. It starts off slow, but when the action picks up, you will be on the edge of your seat, an unpredictable, sleek film… Expand

3 of 8 users found this helpful35

All this user's reviews

10

BlueMoonSep 17, 2011

Drive is like nothing I've ever seen before. Rarely will a movie saturate its first 45 minutes or so with a gentle love story and then escalate so quickly into the horrific, grizzly, B-Movie violence that is Drive. This is what makes it suchDrive is like nothing I've ever seen before. Rarely will a movie saturate its first 45 minutes or so with a gentle love story and then escalate so quickly into the horrific, grizzly, B-Movie violence that is Drive. This is what makes it such a powerful film. Its formulaic use of silence and violence makes it work and makes it work well. Go see it but keep in mind, it is not for the faint of heart mainstream audiences.… Expand

22 of 33 users found this helpful2211

All this user's reviews

0

CincinnatiDaveSep 17, 2011

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I was so bewildered and disappointed that Meta-critic gave this a score of 80 (almost as surprised as Winter's Bone receiving a 90!). How is this possible? Did these "professional" critics see the same movie that was presented to the general public? This movie was awful! Dreadful! So bad in fact, that the audience began moaning and groaning with pain (and laughter) at the incredibly bad downward spiral the film took after the initial terrific opening sequence. The dialog was so dull and boring that I had to check to see if George Lucas penned it. Slow, lifeless, and uninspired events were periodically interrupted by pointless and graphic violence. I hated almost everything about this film, with the exception of Bryan Cranston! My heart was breaking badly for him as an actor having to be associated with this bomb. Ron Perlman and Albert Brooks should have their SAG cards taken from them. If future actors want to learn how to NOT act like a gangster or thug they should retrieve this movie from the landfill and watch their pitiful performances. The costumes were ridiculous (who dresses up that way to attend a function at a strip mall pizza place?) and the music was misguided...even the scripted pink font during the opening credits went awry (I know, I get it, an 80's reference, but why why why?). The bizarre sequence of Gosling wearing a mask and chasing Nino into the sea needs to be placed in the Screenwriter's dictionary under "what to do when you've run out of ideas, but still want to make your film ARTSY". PLEASE save yourself some time and money and skip this blunder.… Expand

11 of 36 users found this helpful1125

All this user's reviews

10

blaingranadoSep 17, 2011

Drive is a milestone in filmmaking. There won't be a film like this in some time. Artistic, Brutal, Sweet, and Poignant. It will no doubt baffle many and I think that's its greatest quality. A maverick tour de force. I consider this film aDrive is a milestone in filmmaking. There won't be a film like this in some time. Artistic, Brutal, Sweet, and Poignant. It will no doubt baffle many and I think that's its greatest quality. A maverick tour de force. I consider this film a Masterpiece. It is also in the running for my favorite film of all time.… Expand

8 of 14 users found this helpful86

All this user's reviews

2

FrankMSep 17, 2011

I registered just to review this movie. Critics are usually always right on but this movie was just awful. I was sitting there waiting for something to happen and it just never did. I was more entertained by "Gigli" and critics hated thatI registered just to review this movie. Critics are usually always right on but this movie was just awful. I was sitting there waiting for something to happen and it just never did. I was more entertained by "Gigli" and critics hated that movie. The movie did have a few good great scenes. For example the first scene was AMAZING and I thought the movie was going to be great but then there were like 6 bad scenes and another good scene. The movie had maybe 3 good scenes (the first chase scene, the elevator scene, and the crash scene at the beach) but it was not worth the other 2 hours or your money. Stay away and wait for the DVD.… Expand

5 of 19 users found this helpful514

All this user's reviews

9

SlythforlifeSep 17, 2011

I thought it was fantastic. Great soundtrack, sleek, low-key, but powerful. Maybe a little over the top w/the violence. But Ryan Gosling was absolute perfection. I can see why some people wouldn't like it, but I personally loved it.

5 of 8 users found this helpful53

All this user's reviews

1

ymaillSep 17, 2011

Do not watch this film. I have never walked out of a movie nor have i fallen asleep in a movie. I nearly did both for the first time while watching Drive. I made the mistake of believing there would be some action in this movie. I wasDo not watch this film. I have never walked out of a movie nor have i fallen asleep in a movie. I nearly did both for the first time while watching Drive. I made the mistake of believing there would be some action in this movie. I was also unimpressed with the "driving" that was done in the film. Anyone that gave this movie a high rating was probably paid to do so.… Expand

6 of 21 users found this helpful615

All this user's reviews

10

TheMudDoctorSep 17, 2011

if you go into this film expecting a high-octane, 80â

2 of 7 users found this helpful25

All this user's reviews

6

RaygirlSep 17, 2011

Overrated. Started out like it was going to be another Transporter-type movie (a'la Jason Statham) but quickly got boring. Not that it wasn't an interesting, 'different', artsy type of film (minimal dialogue, lots of shots of actors lookingOverrated. Started out like it was going to be another Transporter-type movie (a'la Jason Statham) but quickly got boring. Not that it wasn't an interesting, 'different', artsy type of film (minimal dialogue, lots of shots of actors looking into space, drawn out scenes) but I hoped for more action and less boredom.… Expand

5 of 12 users found this helpful57

All this user's reviews

10

thegirlispoisonSep 17, 2011

Settle noir, intense violence, and a thrilling yet mysterious story. Though slow at first, the movie picks up right in the middle, and hardly lets up from there on. However, even the slow parts held my attention. It's unfortunate that thisSettle noir, intense violence, and a thrilling yet mysterious story. Though slow at first, the movie picks up right in the middle, and hardly lets up from there on. However, even the slow parts held my attention. It's unfortunate that this film probably will not get the credit it deserves as one of the best films of the year. Amazing performances from the entire cast, and it's a must see for the cult film followers.… Expand

11 of 17 users found this helpful116

All this user's reviews

10

boneSep 17, 2011

Everything about the film Drive is good. From the lead actor, supporting actors, the script, the direction, the action, the drama, and the music. Drive is the most endearing film I've seen in a while.

13 of 21 users found this helpful138

All this user's reviews

10

VanessaOrozco12Sep 17, 2011

The way the film was directed caught my attention. I couldn't stop watching it had me hooked from the start! Plus Gosling is extremely good looking and his attitude in the film is irresistible.

6 of 10 users found this helpful64

All this user's reviews

9

MarcDoyleSep 17, 2011

Although Gosling has been stronger, more dynamic in other films (Blue Valentine, Lars, Half Nelson), he brings such intensity and subtle emotion to what amounts to a relatively shallow character. Without dwelling on the details of the filmAlthough Gosling has been stronger, more dynamic in other films (Blue Valentine, Lars, Half Nelson), he brings such intensity and subtle emotion to what amounts to a relatively shallow character. Without dwelling on the details of the film to any great extent, I don't think that I haven't seen a film since maybe Hurt Locker that has made my heart feel like it was going to beat out of my chest like this one did. I'm not a fan of Carey Mulligan at all - couldn't stand her in An Education - but she's terrific in an understated role. You never plummet the depths of the driver's soul, but that is unnecessary - I can't imagine anyone else doing what he did here. Jason Statham? Nope. Burt Reynolds? Nah. There's something about the timber of Gosling's voice that just works in a role like this one.… Expand

7 of 12 users found this helpful75

All this user's reviews

10

ZeusSep 16, 2011

I suppose my only complaint is the lack of character development, but Refn creates such a wonderful atmosphere ... absolutely incredible film! I just saw the movie tonight and I keep wanting to replay it in my head. I will have to see thisI suppose my only complaint is the lack of character development, but Refn creates such a wonderful atmosphere ... absolutely incredible film! I just saw the movie tonight and I keep wanting to replay it in my head. I will have to see this one again. I'd also like to ask - why is everyone "not enjoying" Drive because of the brutality? Is this the first Refn film you have seen? Have you never seen a foreign film (Drive is on par with some international violence)? Please go and see DRIVE! It is one of the best films of the year (so far). The story line is probably familiar to most moviegoers, but everything else about the film is so satisfying.… Expand

4 of 10 users found this helpful46

All this user's reviews

10

DeadpieSep 16, 2011

Not for fans of mindless big explosion movies. This isn't your typical action film. It's pretty artsy in terms of very well done cinematography, not much dialogue from the main character, very still scenes, but it's not bashing you in theNot for fans of mindless big explosion movies. This isn't your typical action film. It's pretty artsy in terms of very well done cinematography, not much dialogue from the main character, very still scenes, but it's not bashing you in the face with that. So yes, I do feel like even people who don't really care for art films can still get into it. The movie is well paced and when the mood changes, that when you know **** just got real. It can be disturbing and shocking at times due to the ultraviolence which is quite typical of Refn is you've seen any of his other films, particularly Bronson. Even if you don't like the film you have to admit the acting is VERY well done by everyone.… Expand

8 of 13 users found this helpful85

All this user's reviews

10

trigun123478Sep 16, 2011

Reading user reviews for this movie made me want to write a review. I just saw the movie tonight. It seems everyone is to wussy for all the violence this movie had. This is one of the best movies I have seen in a while. I really didn't knowReading user reviews for this movie made me want to write a review. I just saw the movie tonight. It seems everyone is to wussy for all the violence this movie had. This is one of the best movies I have seen in a while. I really didn't know what was going to happen next. This isn't your typical action movie with car chases and everything blowing up. So don't expect the usual, but if you want something different give this movie a shot. While it does have action its just not done in a traditional way.
The acting was great. Ryan gosling like you have never seem him before. The story was good, the camera angles and everything was just different. Don't listen to the people complain about violence, go see it. fantastic movie.… Expand

13 of 23 users found this helpful1310

All this user's reviews

5

magaSep 16, 2011

Remove the excessive violence and it would be a cool picture. What disturbs me is that the kind of violence I find nauseating seems perfectly acceptable to a generation raised on exceeding graphic violence found in video games. I was almostRemove the excessive violence and it would be a cool picture. What disturbs me is that the kind of violence I find nauseating seems perfectly acceptable to a generation raised on exceeding graphic violence found in video games. I was almost physically sickened by the director's last movie Valhalla Rising and nothing about the rest of that movie made up for the violence. This movie had a human element and relationships that were compelling but the violence was simply too much. Not a director that I want to see more of since apparently this type of violence is his trademark… Expand

3 of 23 users found this helpful320

All this user's reviews

7

KellyPSep 16, 2011

This is definitely a polarizing film as you can see from the scores so far. I'm still trying to figure out if it's a film I really like. It's definitely more an art house film so there will be plenty of people expecting a straight up carThis is definitely a polarizing film as you can see from the scores so far. I'm still trying to figure out if it's a film I really like. It's definitely more an art house film so there will be plenty of people expecting a straight up car chase movie and this won't be for them. But it's an interesting take on an action film and contrary to others I think the acting was excellent. The long pauses are supposed to be uncomfortable. The most disturbing thing of all was the young boy sitting through the most violent movie I've seen in a long time if ever. I cannot believe parents (who were warned by staff) would ever bring their child to this movie. The violence was too much for me, In Canada this is not R rated - and I don't know what would be if this isn't.… Expand

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

All this user's reviews

3

mulderdogSep 16, 2011

the plot sucked, I did not hate the acting, but it was not nearly enough to carry the movie. did I mention the plot was unimaginative, regurgitated, unoriginal, and boring.
the movie pissed me off, I love both leads, the reviews were greatthe plot sucked, I did not hate the acting, but it was not nearly enough to carry the movie. did I mention the plot was unimaginative, regurgitated, unoriginal, and boring.
the movie pissed me off, I love both leads, the reviews were great but it just sucked.
sorry I'm not a better writer/reviewer.… Expand

11 of 31 users found this helpful1120

All this user's reviews

10

MechaYakuzaSep 16, 2011

I have been a champion of Nicholas Winding Refn's films for a few years, and DRIVE is his best film yet and my new personal favorite film. The film is brutally intimate and subtly beautiful. Gosling's soft spoken almost silent protagonistI have been a champion of Nicholas Winding Refn's films for a few years, and DRIVE is his best film yet and my new personal favorite film. The film is brutally intimate and subtly beautiful. Gosling's soft spoken almost silent protagonist reminded me of Robert de Niro in Taxi Driver. The amazing synth soundtrack, the long shots of characters faces as the director forces you to feel their emotions, to the amazing use of horrific violence that you a sense of real desperation, DRIVE is a perfect film.… Expand

8 of 12 users found this helpful84

All this user's reviews

6

Jim_SSep 16, 2011

Interesting enough to keep your attention with art-house stylings and sporadic scenes of ultra violence, but the odd pacing and weak performances left me disappointed. I certainly expected more driving, given the title and trailer. There wasInteresting enough to keep your attention with art-house stylings and sporadic scenes of ultra violence, but the odd pacing and weak performances left me disappointed. I certainly expected more driving, given the title and trailer. There was no sex, and the foul language, which I generally appreciate, seemed forced and unnatural. The acting was good not great. In the end I didn't really care about any of the characters. I love violent action and drama movies, and I had high hopes for this one, but I left the theater feeling shorted. I guess I'm in the minority on this one, given the reviews.… Expand

1 of 8 users found this helpful17

All this user's reviews

1

Unmerciful_1Sep 16, 2011

Wow, I can not remember the last time I was so thoroughly disappointed in a film. It would be unfair to insist that this film does everything possible wrong. The shootout in the hotel was fantastically edited. It had just the right punch, butWow, I can not remember the last time I was so thoroughly disappointed in a film. It would be unfair to insist that this film does everything possible wrong. The shootout in the hotel was fantastically edited. It had just the right punch, but even that was ruined when the driver awkwardly pulls back into the darkness.
It might be easier to just list the faults
Wooden awkward bland leads.
Long horrifically pointless pauses in plot progression
Poorly executed pastiche 80's style in a film that takes place in the present.

I'd like the think if the film were a half hour shorter and actually took place in the 80's instead of being crudely styled as such in post, it would have been a few notches better. Maybe a 4. But this was horrific. Everything you need to know about this film can be found in the trailer.

Gosling blandly recites, "I don't shoot people, I drive" followed by a 3 seconds later cut to him in a gun fight. I cannot remember the last time I attended a film where the bar was set so ridiculously low, and everyone involved failed to reach it. SKIP THIS. the best analogy for this film is as follows. Suppose you would desperately like some gold, and a gentleman, let's call him Nicolas Winding Refn, offers to sell you three pounds of gold at market price. You pay the man, and he hands you a box and runs away. You open the box and find half a pound of gold covered in 2 and a half pounds of feces. That is what this movie is, half a pound of gold, covered in two and a half pounds of feces. I went with two friends, and everyone in the theater hated the film. I haven't lead an entire auditorium in angry laughter like this since Sucker Punch,.
It's a film so poor, and so surprisingly well reviewed, that I forced myself to sign up for a metacritic account, just to try and warn people. AVOID THIS FILM LIKE THE PLAGUE!… Expand

8 of 26 users found this helpful818

All this user's reviews

10

filmfanaticSep 16, 2011

Unbelievable. I can't remember the last time a movie made me want to stand up and cheer when it was over. Heck, I wanted to stand up and cheer after the first five minutes. Everything here is top notch: the acting, the cinematography, theUnbelievable. I can't remember the last time a movie made me want to stand up and cheer when it was over. Heck, I wanted to stand up and cheer after the first five minutes. Everything here is top notch: the acting, the cinematography, the direction, and the action scenes. Don't go in expecting your traditional action movie though, you will probably not get it. This is borderline art house, from the cinematography to the lack of dialogue. This is a movie for people who love great movies or, more specifically, the art of cinema. If that doesn't appeal to you (or you're turned off by relentlessly graphic violence), stay away. Those who haven't been satisfied with giant robots and superheroes this summer should definitely check it out. I don't think you'll be disappointed.… Expand

9 of 14 users found this helpful95

All this user's reviews

Drive

User Reviews