This is a film like no other that I've seen - and I'm saying that in a positive sense. Most of the film is shot to synchronise with the music that the title character continuously listens to through his ear plug-ins (which he plays to drown out the non-stop noise he hears due to a hearing disability) - and it's not all heavy rock; in fact little of it is, some tracks being quite unexpected. However, although the sound level where I saw the film was not at the pain threshold I did wish I'd had something to plug my own ears somewhat and take it down a level. But the soundtrack does give the film a terrific non-stop energy which is exploited to the full in sharp visual editing - and this is coupled with an intelligent, sassy script.
Ansel Elgort (who was male lead in 'The Fault in Our Stars' of 2014) is the 'Baby' of the title who is 'employed' by smarmy crime boss and mastermind Kevin Spacey (menacingly unruffle-able) to do the driving for him as the sole permanent fourth member of a crime quartet who are assigned to carry out bank robberies. He's the standing member because Spacey has faith in him as he's never let him down and regards Baby as his 'lucky charm'. Others in the gang of varying membership include Jamie Foxx and John Hamm. Baby Driver's involvement in these violent capers (invariably with shootings and deaths) makes him increasingly reluctant to continue, especially when he meets fast-food waitress Debora (Lily James) with whom he wishes to strike up a relationship, but Spacey won't let him go, complete with threats.
One relatively minor reservation I had was that I could have done without the epilogue. It's not long but it plays like a needless attempt to wrap things up neatly when a more effective ending in my view would have been just to cut the film off as soon as we're shown what's going to happen, which would have been more in character with the body of the film.
British director Edgar Wright, best known for his Simon Pegg/Nick Frost 'Cornetto' trilogy ('Shaun of the Dead', 'Hot Fuzz' and 'The End of the World' - each of which I think stands up to repeated viewings) certainly pulls out all the stops for this film, directing sure-footedly with enormous gusto and originality.
I hadn't realised until just now that most of the film was shot in New Orleans, though the location isn't betrayed, and nor is it important to know.
This gets my sure recommendation and I can practically guarantee that most of you will be carried along for a heady two-hour pleasure ride. Great fun..................7.5.
3 hours ago
Not a film I have heard much about . It looks and sounds rather interesting thanks raymondo
ReplyDeleteIt really is a blast, J.G. I can guarantee that yawning won't be on the cards.
DeleteI've heard good things, and it does sound interesting, but Jamie Foxx? I really really dislike him.
ReplyDeleteI'm not aware of a single heavily negative review. Bob. I think Foxx will surprise you with his scary, hardman portrayal here. It's not an overbearing, lengthy presence so don't let his inclusion put you off from seeing it.
DeleteI love Kevin Spacey You should watch House of Cards on Netflix...it's really good! Thanks for the review of Baby Driver. I'd heard the title and wondered what it was about.
ReplyDeleteSpacey is excellent in this, Jennifer - but when is he not?
DeleteI've never been a great TV watcher so although I'm aware of 'House of Cards' I've never seen it. And Netfix? Again, I' familiar with the word but haven't the foggiest idea what it is! However, I'll keep in mind what you say.
But do see 'Baby D'. You ought to love it.
I'm planning on seeing it this weekend. I like Edgar Wright's films, but I admit, part of my interest in the film is it's (slight) connection to the Mint Royale "Blue Song" video!
ReplyDeleteI had to play 'Blue Song', Sadie, to see what you meant. The very idea is exactly as adopted in this film - and for that reason alone you ought to enjoy it, though there are plenty more reasons to do so as well.
DeleteI am planning to see this for the music. I have to fit it in to my schedule for this alone.
ReplyDeleteJust one of several reasons to go for it, Rachel - and this is one of the lesser ones. I bet you'll love it.
DeleteAlways had a thing for Kevin Spacey xD
ReplyDeleteAnyways, lots of positive vibes from your new visitor ^_^
- Hot guys
Welcome, H.G. Glad to be able to recommend without reservation this latest Spacey offering. You'll love it.
DeleteThanks once more, S.S. Your thoughts are of great value and encouragement to me.
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ReplyDeleteThis post is much helpful for us.thank you..
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Hope it persuades you to see this very entertaining film, L.H.
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