Learning to Drive - A Movie Review

Driving is a journey in itself. Drive when you feel comfortable.

Driving its way into theaters in 2014, Learning to Drive is a film about a woman who reluctantly takes driving lessons from a Sikh instructor. Each undergoing their own marriage troubles, Wendy and Darwan venture the rules of the road together.

Learning to Drive is a film that needs to be shown to anyone who is beginning their adventures in driving. The movie resonated with me on so many levels. To anybody who has driving anxiety, Learning to Drive proves that you don’t need to be 16 to get your license.

Patricia Clarkson is a wonderful actress. I have seen her in a few films. Although typecast, she studies a variety of personalities. Wendy is the most relatable character I have watched in a film. Struggling with personal dilemmas, Wendy’s growth and confidence is inspiring.

I love how Ben Kinglsey embarked on his role. Due to his culture, Darwan is the target of insults. Darwan is a terrific driving instructor. He likes to help people. I wish that I had him as my driving instructor when I was undergoing my own journey. While he is a good man, he has flaws.

Clarkson and Kingsley are fantastic together. They each studied the stories of their characters, helping one another with their dilemmas. You can have any conversation when driving in a car. It’s the best place to talk.

The film also includes the talents of Grace Gummer, Jake Weber, and Sarita Chowdhury who I saw in the underrated film, Hologram for the King. Side characters have an essential job in Learning to Drive. Each character has their own opinion about driving. Listen to your own heart and not someone else’s opinion.

Learning to Drive has more to its depths. Not just driving, but we need to give relationships time to develop. Including topics like culture and religion. It incorporates a subplot with Jasleen (Chowdhury). Not familiar with the U.S. culture, Jesleen struggles to learn.

Anyone with driving anxiety should watch this film. Isabel Coixet conquered a remarkable message. I also liked her choice of edits, coaxing a relaxing atmosphere until making hectic cuts whenever Wendy felt nervous. She wanted viewers to relate to the story. I also like how the scenes were quick, getting to the point.

I didn’t get my license until I was 20. I am not guilty to admit that. As much as I argued it, driving is necessary. You don’t have to drive if you don’t want to. But, you can’t always count on other people.

There are a lot of rules to follow which is overwhelming. Never stop trying with anything. Every time it will get easier. Don’t let the world or family get you down. Shut out the world when you are driving. It’s a good time to reflect on your day.

Why do you want to drive? It’s important to share stories about driving. That’s another reason why I am so thankful for Coixet for directing this film. Right now, there is someone, 16 or an adult who doesn’t want to admit to their fears of driving.

We deserve more media that establishes a positive message about driving instead of ridiculing people. When I was 16, I was insulted when a couple of shows mocked characters (or really the audience) who didn’t drive. It’s time for that to end.

Learning to Drive is going on my list of new favorite films. Look into this film. It’s inspiring and has a refreshing message. After watching it, I felt more confident.