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Baby Driver - 8/10
As far as the plot i concerned this is a film we've seen before. Its an amalgam of every chase film we've ever seen. Of course its not the plot that makes this film so good.
What makes this stand out, primarily, its the synchronicity between the visual and the auditory. The complexity of these practical cars and all the moving parts being so tightly choreographed against the soundtrack of this film. And the way the world moves in tune with the sounds. Gun fire being on time with the bass. Doors shutting to the beat. A hundred small nuances that move in time.
This marriage of both senses is outrageous because the bulk of this work had to begin on the page and carry through the entire process. Its an astounding achievement in directing and certainly editing as well. Immediately during the credit roll we're given a pretty lengthy oner (its actually two shots masked as one but the cut is well hidden,) and during this shot we're given a clear taste for what this film is aiming for. Complexity and unity across every available spectrum. Its a big goal. One i think the cast and crew were up for the challenge.
The cast is all standout. Ansel Elgort and Lilly James have a magnetic chemistry that instantaneously inspires you to root for them. John Hamm goes from friendly to menacing on a dime and works at both levels. Id say Jamie Fox took a chracter that on the page is excellent and some how got less out of it though. Id have gladly traded him for more John Bernthol.
Im a huge lover of practical car stunts and the lack of cgi is very appreciated. Just metal on metal carnage. Very appreciated. It would have been cheaper to do most of this digitally and there will come a day insurance companies demand it be done digitally so enjoy every frame while you can.
All said this film isnt about the beats of the story but the rhythm of experience. As far as the chase film genre goes this is very high end work.
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