Drive My Car delicately wades into deep drama. The film unfolds naturally, lingering on feelings before proceeding. Although it's outwardly gentle, there's a powerful undercurrent of thematic grief, acceptance, and communication. The story depicts a reserved man who must come to terms with his marriage. He and his wife have a bond, but also issues which he struggles to confront. As the film develops, this protagonist builds relationships with people around him, evolving in the process. Each scene depicts authentic conversations that feel very intimate and subtly impactful. Through these tender moments, characters genuinely grow and so do viewers.
Meanwhile, the filmmaking of Drive My Car carefully serves its narrative style. The cinematography isn't artistically flashy, instead presenting a realistic atmosphere. The music is stripped down, allowing the emotional subtleties to radiate. The sound is grounded, only using silence at its most abstract. Finally, the editing sets the tone for the entire experience, holding on moments for extended lengths and allowing the finer details to intuitively soak in. Collectively, Hamaguchi created a subdued film that slowly absorbs its viewers and strongly connects through its restraint. It requires trust, but Drive My Car will pay off for those who buy-in.
Writing: 10/10
Direction: 10/10
Cinematography: 8/10
Acting: 10/10
Editing: 10/10
Sound: 9/10
Score/Soundtrack: 8/10
Production Design: 7/10
Casting: 8/10
Effects: 7/10
Overall Score: 8.7/10
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