Baby Driver is an electrifying film that seamlessly blends intelligent heists, action-packed scenes, romance, drama, and a thrilling need for speed. The story revolves around Baby, a young and exceptionally talented getaway driver (played by Ansel Elgort), who becomes entangled in a series of heists orchestrated by a notorious crime boss known as Doc (portrayed by Kevin Spacey). While Baby dreams of starting a new life with his love interest, Debora (played by Lily James), Doc forces him to continue working for him by threatening to harm Debora and Baby’s foster father if he resists.
Why does Doc refuse to let go of Baby?
Baby possesses an introverted personality, likely stemming from a tragic car accident that claimed the lives of his parents and left him with tinnitus. To cope with his condition, Baby constantly listens to music on his iPod, which can often irritate his fellow crew members. However, Doc consistently includes Baby in his heists for a significant reason. Doc recognizes Baby’s methodical work style, exceptional driving skills, and innate honesty. He understands that finding another skilled individual like Baby is nearly impossible, making Baby an indispensable asset to his team and increasing their chances of success.
Who stirs up tension within Doc’s crew?
Bats, portrayed by Jamie Foxx, is a character who struggles to get along with anyone. Consumed by envy, Bats becomes increasingly resentful of the attention and respect given to Baby. Bats views Baby as careless and undeserving of equal treatment simply because he sits behind the wheel. During a tumultuous scene following a botched gun deal, Bats unknowingly leads Baby to the diner where Deborah works, exposing their relationship. Upset by seeing her boyfriend with gangsters, Deborah confronts Bats, further aggravating the situation. Bats, convinced of Baby and Deborah’s romantic involvement, uses this as another means to torment Baby. The feeling is mutual, as Baby despises Bats for his violent tendencies and interference in his personal life. Bats’ arrogant remarks also manage to irritate Buddy (played by John Hamm) and his sharpshooter partner, Darling (portrayed by Eliza González).
What is Baby’s ultimate mission?
In one scene, Debora expresses her desire to escape with Baby on a spontaneous road trip: “sometimes all I want is to head West on 20 in a car I can’t afford, with a plan I don’t have, just me, my music, and the road.” The film hints at their shared aspiration to start anew by embarking on such a journey. However, for Baby and Debora’s dreams to come true, Baby must distance himself from his criminal lifestyle. He longs to sever ties with Doc as quickly as possible. At one point, he even attempts to escape, but is apprehended by Bats and Buddy. Left with no other choice, Baby is compelled to complete one final task.
Baby’s journey to redemption and freedom
During a robbery, tensions reach their peak as Bats kills a security guard, leaving Baby disheartened by yet another innocent death. Unable to continue working with the team, Baby refuses to drive away, resulting in a confrontation with Bats. In a fit of rage, Baby crashes the car into an open truck carrying construction materials, impaling Bat’s chest and killing him instantly. Chaos ensues, leading to the demise of Darling at the hands of the police, leaving Buddy filled with fury and seeking revenge against Baby.
Faced with the dire situation, Baby heads to the diner to rescue Debora, only to find Buddy holding her hostage. In a tense standoff, Baby manages to shoot Buddy and escape with Debora, carjacking a vehicle to evade their pursuers. Seeking refuge with Doc, their love becomes apparent, prompting Doc to provide them with money and allow them to flee. However, Buddy, consumed by his desire to avenge Darling’s death, relentlessly pursues Baby and Debora. Baby realizes that facing Buddy head-on is the only way to achieve lasting peace.
In a furious battle featuring intense car chases, firearms, and fiery explosions, Baby ultimately triumphs as Buddy meets his doom, falling onto a burning car. With their tormentors vanquished, Baby and Debora can finally breathe a sigh of relief.
A new beginning
As Baby and Debora make their way out of the county, they encounter a police roadblock. Realizing that surrendering is the only path to a fresh start, Baby decides to accept responsibility for his past actions. At his trial, several witnesses, including Debora, testify in his favor, highlighting his inherently good character. The court sentences Baby to 25 years in prison, with the possibility of parole after 5 years.
Incarcerated but determined to change his life, Baby diligently serves his time while maintaining correspondence with Debora through letters. On the day of his release, he reunites with Debora, who awaits him outside the prison in a nostalgic vintage car. Their renewed freedom and love are evident as they share a heartfelt kiss and embark on a promising future.
For more captivating movie reviews, make sure to explore our collection!