Baby Driver

Lately I've seen a high number of average to good films but even those stronger ones sometimes lack that distinct edge to separate itself from the crowd. This has been made worse by Hollywood's plan to employee indie/TV directors in their films as a means to control them and while there are exceptions, they are just too few. Thankfully though, the odd passion project can still make its way to the big screen and Edgar Wright's Baby Driver fits right within there.

On the surface this can sound very straightforward as we follow getaway driver, Baby, and his plans to leave the crime business behind him once he's settled a few debts but is somehow pulled back in. The professional wanting to quit is a well-worn formula that works well but can be predictable. I think it was fearing this that made me avoid the trailers, not that there was much hype prior to release, and I'm glad I did. My only mistake was forgetting the reliable Edgar Wright was in the driving seat.

Having been off the director's chair for four years, Wright brings forward an exciting chase film with his trademark, snappy visuals making for a great experience. What's more he keeps his 22 year old idea inline with sharp writing, a great cast and a suitably American James Dean retro soundtrack. Ansel Elgort makes for an impressive turn as Baby working alongside Kevin Spacey, Lily James, Jon Bernthal, Jamie Foxx and Jon Hamm, but it is the latter two who really impress as unhinged thieves. What's more the action falls perfectly in time with the musical beats which really adds a punch to some of the key moments lifting this way above your standard chase film.

Baby Driver combines many moving pieces together effortlessly and really stands apart from some of the more typical summer flicks that often receive more attention. Scott Pilgrim vs. the World failed at the box office financially but thankfully that didn't stop Wright from continuing and hopefully we'll see more films like this.