Hot mess

Rating: 9/10 (1 January 2012)

I had high expectations for "Drive" after all the critical glory it was showered with, but this movie is a hot mess.
While set in modern-day LA and showing reminiscences of films like "A history of violence", "Drive" also pays homage to those dirty pleasures of the 80s (Miami Vice, Wild Orchid) with its use of pink credits and its soundtrack. On the other hand, Ryan Gosling's character was clearly meant to evoke memories of Steve McQueen (Bullitt, anyone?), so some 60s vibe was thrown in as well. I suppose everyone can pick the period he/she likes best, but sometimes less is more.
As to the acting: I love Ryan Gosling, but to call this the best performance of his career doesn't do him justice in my opinion. He nailed the stoicism and toughness of the "Kid" to perfection, sure, but at the same time, this left very little room for him artistically. The vulnerability depicted during his interaction with Irene were his strongest moments. Speaking of Irene: Carey Mulligan is a wonderful actress, but I didn't buy her in the role of a (too) young mother and wife of a convict. She was way too sweet and one-dimensional (not her fault for sure!!). The chemistry between her and the "Kid" was definitely there, though, which made for some small magic moments. The supporting cast was great, with Bryan Cranston and Albert Brooks leading the pack. I liked seeing Christina Hendricks out of 60s attire; sadly, her part was super small.
The story itself was fairly straight forward and well told. I had problems with the idea of the "Kid's" chivalry, but I guess lone heroes act like that. The graphic violence that started in the second part of the movie was surprising but somehow fitting. The ending threw me off, it didn't seem plausible. I also had problems with the idea that the "Kid" all of a sudden developed into this Terminator-style cold-blooded killer. Where did that come from? And the idea that the mother of a young child, already marred by her marriage to a low-life criminal, would still be willing to be with a man who performs an act of unspeakable brutality right in front of her is just ridiculous.
The movie surely is unique and memorable. It drew me in and a lot of the imagery will stay with me for a long time. The magic to make it a truly great movie was missing, though. Still, thumbs up.