The Return of the Action Hero

Rating: 9/10 (29 January 2012)

Previous to watching this movie the name Nicolas Winding Refn may mean very little to you, but after establishing himself as a master of atmosphere in his direction of Drive we may see the name much more often. It's easy to link elements of this film to some of his previous work like Bronson, especially in the way the characters are established, But this film being on a larger 'Hollywood' scale it packs a bigger punch.
I think the main aspect of this film's originality is the unique 'dream like' atmosphere that's created. The films score in particular helps this with the use of mainly electronic and synth music which gives an 80's vibe to the film and creates real depth to the scenes. A big surprise was the quality of acting provided by Ryan Gosling who gave an powerful but low key performance in which his character was enigmatic and secretive. In-fact the lead role known to the viewer as "the driver" acted as the main reason for why i compare this film in many ways to the 1976 title Taxi Driver. Both these films contain a similar narrative structure and lead character personalities with both being played as inconspicuous but deadly under the circumstances of the plot.
Drive certainly gives us a return to action films of the past with the focus on atmosphere, plot and emotion rather than on the exaggerated special effects that we have become used to over the past 10 years. It also gives the Director an increased reputation and also spells the end of a good year for Ryan Gosling with both Drive and the Ides of March set to give him a new direction in film.
In conclusion Drive is an atmospheric and interesting thriller that provides decent acting quality and a return to the heyday of the old action hero a must watch film of 2011.