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The next movie I saw was something truly unique: an original action comedy that even makes the soundtrack a character. It comes from Edgar Wright, director of such films as Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, and The World's End. This post will focus on his latest film, Baby Driver.
The story follows a getaway driver named Baby, who, as a child, lost his parents in a car accident that also gave him tinnitus. However, he blocks it out by listening to music, which allows him to stay focused during a job. He works for Doc, a crime boss who plans the heists and gets the crew together. When Baby thinks he is free and capable of having a new life, Doc wants him to do one last job. Unfortunately, the crew he's given may have an agenda of their own.
What Worked: To start, this movie has an amazing plot. It's a very clever and ultimately well-executed idea, and as a result, it has a great cast surrounding it, who all give great performances. Ansel Elgort portrays Baby, and his performance is one of the things that make him an interesting character to get behind. He sells Baby's commitment to his work, his focus when he's driving, etc. Then there's Kevin Spacey as Doc. Out of the supporting cast, he's one of the best characters in the movie. He also gets one of the funniest lines. On the other side of the conflict is Debora, a waitress and Baby's love interest, played by Lily James. They have great chemistry together. There are several other big names in this aside from Kevin Spacey, all as various crewmembers; these include Jon Hamm and Jamie Foxx.
The rest of the positives involve the technical aspects. First, Edgar Wright's script is brilliant. One particular moment that's so cleverly written is actually in the trailer (it involves masks), and the setup for it in the movie makes it even better. Aside from hilarious moments like that, another thing that makes the script work is how the majority of the characters are established, especially Baby himself. The performance by Ansel Elgort may be one of the things that make Baby interesting; how he's handled is the other, which allows for development through his actions as well. It's done in a similar way with Doc. With the crew, Debora, and other supporting characters, it's also through personality since it is more noticeable with them; Baby and Doc don't really show it that much.
With those characteristics incorporated into Edgar Wright's script and put on display through his direction, it's easy to notice his style of filmmaking and humor. If not that, then it will definitely show in the perfectly timed editing, especially with the action sequences and the music.
The editing of the action sequences makes them even more fun to watch. It shows what's happening and how, thus keeping the viewer's interest, but not just because of the editing.
As stated in the intro, even the soundtrack is a character here. Because of how it's utilized alone, this is the best soundtrack of 2017. For example, on occasion, the action is timed to the music, and it's done very well. This also has one of the cleverest choices for a credits song in recent memory.
Overall: Those who have been clamoring for a great comedy might just get that with Baby Driver. It's also a solid heist movie, with interesting characters, clever dialogue and humor, and amazing action, along with an intriguing plot, great performances, and an excellent soundtrack. This movie ended up being one of the most fun theater experiences, and is easily among the best movies of 2017. It's even more surprising to go into it not knowing what to expect.