Review of Driving Lessons (2006) by Joshua B — 06 May 2010
Driving Lessons is a quirky dramedy that pairs Julie Walters and Rupert Grint (Molly and Ron Weasley from the Harry Potter films) as a reclusive old lady and an awkward teen who become unlikely friends.
Walters is fantastic -- her scene in the play during the film's final act is nothing short of hilarious -- and Grint proves he is the best young actor to come out of the Harry Potter films, even if he spends most of the film being confused and conflicted.
It's really his film, as he comes of age under the care of a passive-aggressively, hypocritically tyrannical religious mother (Laura Linney) and a near-impotent religious father. The father, played very well by the Ralph Feinnes-looking Nicholas Farell, is one of the more interesting characters in the film despite few scenes, but Linney's character is a little too strongly parodic.
Overall I really enjoyed this film; it has charm and quirks and at its heart a strong case for the impact of people on each other's lives.
This review of Driving Lessons (2006) was written by Joshua B on 06 May 2010.
Driving Lessons has generally received positive reviews.
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