"Drive"

Sometimes when you see a trailer, you may get an inkling that a film is going to be good. And sometimes you can get it totally wrong. I susepcted that I was onto a winner here, but nothing could have prepared me for what I was about to see.

Ryan Gosling plays a driver, with two careers. One legal in that he does stunt work on movies, the other job is not so legal, as he acts as a getaway driver for anyone wanting his expertise to avoid the Police. He has a nice quiet existence, also working in a garage with Shannon, someone who has looked out for him over the years.
He then starts a friendship with neighbour Irene (Carey Mulligan), and her young son. Their friendship grows, but Irene's husband is released from prison, and the friendship comes to a halt. With husband still owing money to his former cell-mates, Gosling takes it upon himself to help out and offer his unique skills, sadly all does not go to plan, and the story escalates with a battle between locals hoodlums and the mafia.

I was totallly blown away by this film. Right from the start it really grabs your attention. It is beautifully shot, and has an excellent score, reminiscent of an 80's soundtrack both in relation to the score and the songs used in the film.
The story is brilliantly told by Director Nicolas Winding Refn, who was responsible for Brit Flick "Bronson".
All the cast excel in their roles, but top marks especially to Gosling, who gives a phenomenal performance. At times he is so quiet and understated, you would not believe that his character could harm a fly. The film has an '18' certificate, and it is with very good reason.

I eagerly await the opportunity to see this most excellent film again. I cannot recommend highly enough. Films like this do not come along very often...........10 out of 10