Review of Goodbye Solo (2009) by Joe B — 02 Jul 2009

Goodbye Solo is a poignant look at the unlikely friendship between two different men. The first is Solo, an African immigrant who drives a taxi cab in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. The second is William, an aging Southerner who has no family and wants to be left alone. Both men are played brilliantly by Souleymane Sy Savane and Red West respectively. The lack of star power in this film helps you relate to the characters without being distracted by a big name.

Solo struggles to earn money as a cab driver and dreams of becoming a flight attendant. William wants to be driven up to a location called "Blowing Rock" and doesn't need transportation back.

The film is sentimental, but not over the top emotionally. Both characters have an affect on the other one, but they don't change each other. There isn't a profound moment where one has an epiphany. The two learn to co-exist and learn from one another. Ramin Bahrani's script is quiet in nature. There aren't any scenes that stick out. But that style fits the overall tone of the film. His lack of a traditional formula gives Goodbye Solo an authentic feel. Bahrani does a brilliant job in giving the feel of driving in the taxi along the quiet streets of Winston-Salem with Solo and William.

At times Goodbye Solo can be hard to watch due to William's rough personality and the third act which, without revealing spoilers, is a bit of a downer. Solo's personality gives the film a warmth and likability that helps us laugh through the tough moments. He is the embodyment of a character you route for and want to win. His ideas of humanity and friendship satisfy the audience in the film's conclusion. This is truly one of those "Indie gems" that people rave about. It's the kind of movie that gives me hope for the increasingly corporate industry. This is a breakout performance from Savane and the crowning achievement to Red West's long career in the entertainment industry. Goodbye Solo is my #1 movie of 2009 so far and I highly recommend it.