Awesomeness with Style and Heart. Beautiful film.

Rating: 10/10 (16 September 2011)

Everyone must see this! This is one of the coolest movies (coolest being the operative word here) I've ever seen, and probably one of the best this year. As everyone has said, the film looks beautiful. Some of the cinematography and style reminded me in a way of Wong Kar Wai's "In The Mood For Love". The subject matter, however, is obviously different. I should also mention the performances. All perfect. Carey Mulligan as Irene and Ryan Gosling as the lead, the Driver, are amazing with their subtleties and quiet exchanges. Both very good. On the other hand, Bryan Cranston, Ron Perlman, and Albert Brooks were all very loud and/or outspoken, which makes the film perfectly balanced. The music!!! My God, the music! Odd and bold choices, but add so much to the images shown. What I like most about this film, though, is the silent tension throughout many of the scenes. There is one particular scene I love which inter-cuts between a dinner conversation and events that happen earlier that day. Also, that amazing kiss scene in the elevator, followed by a Gaspar Noe-inspired gore fest beating, which will, without a doubt, prove to be one for the books. I'm sure it will be talked about for ages, shown in film schools and inspire many aspiring film makers to start making movies. Probably my favorite of the year, along with "The Tree of Life".
Unfortunately, some critics might say (some have already said) it is style over substance; that while the film looks beautiful, it has no emotional support to sustain it or make it transcendent. I completely disagree. Mulligan's character provides all the heart the film needs. Her vulnerability and deep love for her son changes the Driver. She is what "Drives" him to do what he does. She turns the average joe into a hero, or maybe anti-hero. Even though he is very stoic and not really effusive, he unveils himself to her near the end, and this is the true heart of the film. See, the title might not only refer to steering wheels, shifting gears, and speeding, but perhaps most importantly to the DRIVE that Irene introduces into The Driver.
This film is truly a spectacular achievement.