Drive review: A misguided revenge thriller that never builds tension
Drive review by Kausalya Rachavelpula
Drive is a suspense drama that tries to keep viewers guessing, using mystery and tension rather than loud action or glamour. Starring Aadhi Pinisetty in the lead role, the film aims to explore danger, trust and survival. While it has an interesting idea at its centre, the execution does not always live up to its promise, resulting in a film that feels uneven.
The story begins with an unusual situation that quickly raises curiosity. The film places its main character in a risky environment, where every decision matters. Instead of explaining everything clearly, the narrative slowly reveals information, expecting the audience to stay patient. This approach works at times, especially in the early portions, where the mystery is engaging and the setting creates a sense of unease.
However, as the film moves forward, the storytelling starts to lose its grip. Certain scenes drag on longer than needed, and the pace becomes inconsistent. While suspense films often benefit from a slow build, Drive struggles to balance tension with momentum. Some moments feel stretched, while others move too quickly, making the overall flow feel awkward.
Aadhi Pinisetty delivers a committed performance. He carries much of the film on his shoulders and manages to convey fear, confusion and determination convincingly. His restrained acting suits the tone of the film, and he succeeds in holding attention even when the writing weakens. The supporting cast does an adequate job, though most of the characters lack depth and are not explored fully. As a result, it is difficult to form a strong connection with them.
One of the film’s strengths lies in its atmosphere. The setting and background score work together to create a sense of isolation and tension. The music is used carefully in some scenes to enhance suspense, though at times it feels repetitive. The visual style is simple and realistic, helping the film maintain a grounded feel rather than turning into an over-the-top thriller.
That said, the screenplay is where Drive falters the most. While the core idea has potential, the writing does not dig deep enough into the characters or the situation. Certain twists feel predictable, and some key moments lack emotional impact. The film also raises questions that are either answered too easily or not explored properly, leaving the audience slightly dissatisfied.
The direction shows ambition, especially in trying to tell a contained story with limited elements. There are scenes where the tension is built effectively, showing that the filmmaker had a clear vision. Unfortunately, the lack of sharp editing and stronger writing prevents the film from reaching its full potential. A tighter runtime and clearer focus could have made a big difference.
Overall, Drive is a watchable thriller that works in parts but fails to fully impress. It has a solid lead performance and a decent atmosphere, but suffers from pacing issues and an underdeveloped script. Viewers who enjoy slow-paced suspense stories may find it interesting, but those expecting a gripping and polished thriller may feel let down.
Fridaywall rating: 2.5/5
