“Baby Driver” is one of the best films of the year!
After unwillingly joining a crime boss as his key getaway driver, Baby (Ansel Elgort) finds himself in deep trouble when a job goes into disarray. While trying to balance his own life, his family, and a newfound relationship, he finds his eventual departure from crime is not as close as he thought.
Cinematics (Cinematography, Acting, Plot, etc.) – 4.5
As a seemingly typical action flick, “Baby Driver” transcends its primary genre evolving into a completely original film. On the surface it is comprised of a solid cast that build stronger characters, exhilarating cinematography, and a soundtrack that fluidly sets the pace of the film. But what pushes “Baby Driver” above the proverbial cinematic mark are the subtleties scattered throughout.
The cast all play to their strengths as actors providing expectedly adequate or exceptional performances. Ansel Elgort has not been on my radar based on his numerous roles in teen-oriented, subpar films. But as the key character in “Baby Driver” he lives up to the role and shines as a star. Working alongside proven successes like Jamie Foxx, Kevin Spacey, and Jon Hamm, Elgort proves himself to be worthy of sharing the spotlight. Even his chemistry with rookie actress Lily James is engaging and genuine. Together this cast works interdependently accompanied by their own subplots that drive the main plot.
The driving force (pun intended) of “Baby Driver” is the attention to detail which Director Edgar Wright proves he has an eye for. The plot and characters have enough depth to carry the film but by paying close attention, the supplemental elements are what manifest originality. Most every scene is accompanied by a song that dictates the pace and emotional impact. The actors, vehicles, and even weaponry move to a beat which showcases the meticulously well choreographed nature of “Baby Driver.”
Overall “Baby Driver” is like an action-packed ballet with discernible music that will resonate with most viewers. There is a nuanced simplicity to the film that is both satisfying and enriching. Accompanied by a cast that is both recognizable and exceptional, “Baby Driver” easily raises the cinematic bar.
Entertainment Value – 5
Not to overhype the movie, but this may be one of the most entertaining films I’ve ever seen. It’s an amalgamation of originality accompanied with popcorn fun. The opening scene gets right to the action with an intense car chase instantiated by methodical preparation from Baby (Ansel Elgort). As he puts his ear buds in and the music begins to play, the beat acts as a countdown to the beginning of the chase. This is how most of the car chases are initiated throughout the film and are progressively more exciting than the previous.
These car chases provide an ample amount of fun but there’s also substance behind the straight-forward, easy-to-follow story that resembles a modern day “Rebel Without A Cause” plot. As this good-natured outlaw falls for a waitress at a diner, their love at first sight relationship strengthens the attachment to both characters. How Baby manages to balance his life of crime and his wholesome relationship is sometimes just as intense as the getaway scenes.
The best part of “Baby Driver” is that it’s a thrill ride that fits most anyone’s preference. No matter what type of moviegoer you may be, it’s hard to imagine someone that would not thoroughly enjoy this film.
Re-Watchability – 4.5
This is a must own film and I say that wholeheartedly. After leaving the theater and days later, I’m still thinking about this movie and when I will get the chance to see it again. I may find myself in the theater once again and paying full price so that I get to take this ride another time.