The Driver: A Cold and Unsensational Genre Film
Walter Hill’s The Driver (1978) is a film that was initially reviled upon its release but has now earned the status of a classic. With its upcoming release in UK cinemas in a crisp new 4K restoration, this movie offers a thrilling experience with excellent stunt work. The story revolves around a skilled getaway driver (Ryan O’Neal) who is constantly pursued by the authorities. His reputation as a master driver allows him to charge high prices for his services, and with each successful robbery, his legend grows. However, a Detective (Bruce Dern) remains hot on the Driver’s heels, always close but never quite able to catch him. The Driver’s path crisscrosses with that of The Player (Isabelle Adjani), who witnesses his involvement in a heist but is persuaded by the Driver to keep it a secret from the Detective. The plot is easy to follow, and the film grabs your attention right from the start.
A Stunning Display of Car Chases
One of the standout aspects of The Driver is its breathtaking car chases. The film’s opening sequence, featuring minimal dialogue, immediately immerses the audience in the world of high-speed pursuits. Meanwhile, the Driver maintains a cool and reticent demeanor throughout the story, fully aware of the level of trouble he’s in but unwavering in his confidence to elude capture. While predominantly set at night, the film is brilliantly illuminated by the city’s urban lights, adding a vibrant and colorful atmosphere. The city never sleeps, and its nocturnal inhabitants are the troublemakers. These expertly choreographed, shot, and edited car chases not only captivate the viewers but also pay homage to classic film noirs. In fact, the influence of The Driver can be seen in later works by renowned directors such as Michael Mann and Nicolas Winding Refn.
Uncompelling Characters
The Driver takes an interesting approach to its characters, as they are merely listed in the credits with descriptive names like ‘The Driver,’ ‘The Detective,’ ‘The Player,’ and ‘The Connection.’ Writer-director Walter Hill purposely uses archetypes without fully fleshing out the characters. However, this decision lacks any metaphysical or deconstructive reasoning and ultimately leaves the characters feeling undeveloped and uninteresting. As a result, the film leans heavily on its action sequences rather than engaging plotlines and compelling characters. Despite this setback, the cast members, especially Isabelle Adjani and Bruce Dern, do their best with the material they are given. Adjani, known for her remarkable performances, delivers lines devoid of emotion, leaving her role feeling underutilized. On the other hand, Dern’s portrayal of the determined Detective adds depth and narrative conflict.
A Visually Appealing Restoration
With a careful and well-executed 4K restoration, The Driver now boasts visuals as captivating as contemporary films of today. The restoration has successfully enhanced the contrast between the natural darkness of the night and the artificial lights that bring the city to life. This contrast emphasizes the characters’ solitude in their endeavors. Furthermore, the sound quality and design have been meticulously improved, adding to the thrill of the car chases and the suspenseful moments throughout the film. StudioCanal has done an outstanding job in preserving the gritty narrative and visual beauty that contribute to the film’s appeal.
Memorable Moments and Lasting Influence
The Driver offers several memorable moments that are best experienced firsthand to fully appreciate their impact. One highlight occurs when potential clients challenge the Driver’s driving ability, leading to a sequence where he effortlessly showcases his finesse in a slightly humorous yet impressive manner. The final fifteen minutes of the film truly shine, incorporating suspense, intrigue, and impeccable stunt work to deliver a highly satisfying conclusion. The Driver is undoubtedly a film that warrants revisiting as it has had a lasting influence on the genre. Its DNA can be seen in other notable neo-noir heist films such as Collateral, Drive, and Baby Driver. Additionally, fans of Quentin Tarantino’s work might recognize a familiar motif, as he skillfully pays homage to The Driver in his own unique way.
Conclusion
The Driver, once reviled but now deemed a classic, offers a cold and unsentimental genre film experience that showcases exceptional car chases and a visually stunning cityscape. While the characters may lack depth and the dialogue may feel bland at times, the film compensates with its awe-inspiring action sequences and the committed performances of its cast. With the forthcoming 4K restoration and its subsequent release in UK cinemas, viewers have the opportunity to rediscover this influential neo-noir heist film. The Driver, a film that has left an indelible mark on the genre, continues to captivate audiences with its enduring legacy.
FAQs
1. What sets The Driver apart from other heist films?
The Driver distinguishes itself through its crisp car chases, masterfully choreographed and filmed, which have had a profound influence on subsequent films in the genre.
2. Is the restoration of The Driver successful in preserving the film’s original charm?
Absolutely! The careful 4K restoration by StudioCanal retains the gritty narrative and visual beauty that makes The Driver a compelling film to watch.
3. Can you compare The Driver to other works by Walter Hill?
The Driver stands out as one of Walter Hill’s most influential films due to its impact on the neo-noir heist genre and its enduring legacy.
4. How does The Driver’s casting contribute to the film’s overall appeal?
The performances of the cast, particularly Bruce Dern and Isabelle Adjani, elevate the film despite the limited character development, adding depth and narrative conflict.
5. What makes The Driver worth revisiting after all these years?
The timeless nature of its car chases, coupled with its influence on subsequent films, ensures that The Driver remains a must-watch for fans of the genre and those seeking cinematic thrills.