Scene Analysis: Drive Elevator Scene

The elevator scene is an extremely important scene in this movie. It involves the main character known only as Driver and his love interest, Irene as well as the hitman hired to take them out. This scene is significant because it signifies the biggest turning point in the movie. In this scene Driver, who is used to outwitting his opponents in his car, must fight to protect Irene who is unaware of the danger they are in. The scene takes place in the elevator of the building Driver,Irene and her son live in. Driver knows that Irene is in grave danger but he remains calm as is his nature throughout the movie. The scene really captures the two sides of the mysterious character Driver. On one hand we are shown the calm caring side that he usually shows around Irene. On the other, we are shown the cold, calculated, violent side that we have seen in previous scenes throughout the movie. It serves to establish the lengths at which Driver is now prepared to go and his development from being this mysterious cold hearted man who seemingly does not care for his own life to a man with a purpose and a reason to sacrifice it. An important recurring theme throughout this movie is the very little dialogue between characters in important scenes. To compensate, the director uses set design and effects to convey the powerful emotions that are present in many of the scenes. The elevator scene is one of the most emotional and symbolic scenes in the film. There is virtually no dialogue in this scene, however the audience can presume certain things based on the setting, the lighting, and the cinematography. Through these elements the director is able to convey the two sides of Driver without words.