Review of Baby Driver (2017) by Bhbarry — 01 Jul 2017

“Baby Driver” is the brainchild of writer/director Edgar Wright who brings us this action packed adventure involving bank heists and getaway chases that would make the producers of “Bullitt” and “The French Connection” gasp in awe.

The film stars Ansel Elgort In the title role as the young man forced to drive getaway cars for a group of characters played by Kevin Spacey, Jon Hamm, Eliza Gonzalez, Lily James and James Foxx. Fast paced with the director’s foot constantly on the pedal, the film has a few dramatic moments and a simple story but, more than anything, the real star or stars (depending on what car is being used) are the vehicles speeding across the screen.

Mr. Elgort is wonderfully cast as the main character of the film and draws the audience into his plight and circumstance with easy identification. Mr. Hamm, alas, is apparently faced with the George/Jason Alexander syndrome for he is not really believable as a punk hold up guy and seems better suited to be behind a desk an office on the Mad Men set.

I give the film an 8 because, more than anything, it is an easy and enjoyable theatrical experience.