At a time when Hollywood seems to be running out of ideas, it is refreshing to come across a film that is as original as “Baby Driver”. A fun, fast-paced and cleverly directed film, it brings much needed spark to what has been a stale Summer for movies. Director Edgar Wright has crafted a heist movie that features breathtaking action, fantastic performances and a catchy soundtrack. If you’re looking for fresh and original entertainment this Summer, it is safe to say that “Baby Driver” will not disappoint. It delivers everything you could possibly want from a Summer blockbuster: action, humor and thrills.
Although it is inspired by classic heist movies, the concept of “Baby Driver” is quite unique. The story focuses on a young getaway driver named Baby who relies on music to pull off heists. When Baby meets the girl of his dreams, he sees it as an opportunity to get away from a life of crime. However, Baby is coerced by his crime boss to take part in a heist doomed to fail.
It is then that we are swept into a dangerous world filled with menacing criminals, car chases and electric music.
Not many directors have the flair and talent of mixing action with music but Edgar Wright is an exception. Wright has a distinct and unique style that he brings to every film. His films are always action-packed, humorous and fast-paced.
With “Baby Driver”, Wright has made an action movie with a musical touch. Every action sequence in the film is set to music. Although this may sound like a strange combination, it works tremendously. The action and music blend together perfectly, resulting in exciting car chase sequences. Filmed using gorgeous cinematography and jaw-dropping stunts, the car chases are breathtaking to behold. Not only are they impressively filmed, but they really draw you in as a viewer. “Baby Driver” is worth seeing on the big-screen for these car chases alone.
Edgar Wright’s screenplay is another highlight of the movie. When there is no action onscreen, it is fascinating to simply watch the characters interact. The dialogue is sharp, witty and comical. When there are no car chases going on, the dialogue keeps you entertained. The characters are also larger-than-life and have colorful personalities.
In terms of acting, the entire cast is at the top of it’s game. Every actor in the cast gets the opportunity to shine and leave a lasting impression.
Ansel Elgort delivers a star-making performance as Baby. Charming, charismatic and very likeable, he exudes leading man qualities. Although he doesn’t speak much, his expressions and body language provide much more than you would expect. While Elgort has starred in a few movies, he isn’t as well-known to the public as his co-stars. Hopefully, this performance will launch his career and gain him the recognition he deserves.
Jamie Foxx is fantastic in the role of a menacing and intimidating hitman. He steals nearly every scene he is in with charisma and the funniest dialogue of the year. Foxx proves that he is one of the seasoned actors working in Hollywood today.
Kevin Spacey also stands out as a powerful crime boss. Despite limited screen time, the classy actor commands every scene with charisma and deadpan humor.
While the acting across the board is terrific, the real star of “Baby Driver” is the soundtrack. Never has any soundtrack affected a movie this much. Every song is carefully chosen and elevates the film to another level. It is unlikely that the film would work so well without the music.
With the help of this electric soundtrack, “Baby Driver” moves at an energetic pace. Director Edgar Wright keeps the pacing engaging but chooses to end the film in a slightly disappointing way. It’s an over-the-top, unrealistic ending that doesn’t quite work. Although the movie begins with a bang, it ends on a whimper.
Nevertheless, “Baby Driver” is fresh and original entertainment that is worth seeing. In a Summer crowded with superheroes, monsters and mummies, it offers something different and unique. They don’t make movies like this anymore, but on those rare occasions that they do it’s a cause for celebration.
4.5/5 stars
The Film Buff 