Drive DVD Review
One of the most critically acclaimed movies of 2011 is finally available on DVD, Drive, and this Nerd couldn’t be happier. If you’re a longtime Nerdlocker reader you might’ve already seen my review of it from last year. In summary, Drive is a story about a stunt driver simply known as Driver (Ryan Gosling) who moonlights as a getaway driver and lives by a strict moral code, but he gets wrapped up in a doomed robbery to protect his neighbor and love interest, Irene (Carey Mulligan), from the mob. That’s the movie in a nutshell, yes, but there is so much more to it.
Filled with suspense and long silences where the acting really tells the story, not only is it a great acting piece, but also an homage of sorts to classic driving movies featuring three distinct chase scenes. These chases not only test and exhibit our hero’s driving talent, but also put him through an emotional wringer. The movie already got five Nerdskulls from me so that doesn’t change, but being that the DVD contains much more, that has to be taken into account, and I was pleasantly surprised that such an affordable DVD (I found it for $15) actually had some content to it. Missing is the usual commentary track, but instead it has a few featurettes that give you a behind-the-scenes look at how the actors were chosen, what was the inspiration behind the car chases, and an in-depth look at Nicholas Winding Refn’s thoughts and stories about the movie. While it would’ve been nice to have a little more info on the movie, it does keep with the mysterious tone of the film.
With a small cast filled with big talent, this is definitely a classic in our time, I don’t care what any dude named Oscar has to say about it. This movie should be enjoyed by all, movie nerd and car nerd alike. Have an open mind and a couple hours to spare to really enjoy everything the DVD has to offer.
Adventure Time #1 Review
Looks like Kaboom! Studios have earned themselves a fist bump for doing a stellar job on Adventure Time #1. For those of you unfamiliar with the hit Cartoon Network show, it follows inseparable pals Finn the Human and Jake the Dog as they live and travel in the land of Ooo, helping whoever they can and saving princesses from the misunderstood and completely oblivious Ice King. Thankfully, since the show usually just focuses on short stories, it translates to comic books beautifully with great visuals courtesy of Jake’s ability to stretch his body and the varied and colorful cast of characters. The best part for me would have to be how well they were able to keep the kind of humor that they use in the show without losing any of its impact or hilarity.
The first issue started what looks to be a very action-packed story arc that should act as a very in-depth tour of relationships and should catch anyone up that isn’t already immersed in Adventure Time canon. My one qualm with this book though is how short the main story is. The back-up story included was really funny and somewhat made up for what wasn’t included, but I would have preferred more of the main story. Overall this was a great read and perfect for any age. I’m going to give it 5 out of 5 Nerdskulls. Finally, I leave you with one of the most awesome panels from the issue:
