Review: Coen Brothers’ ‘Drive-Away Dolls’ Falls Short of Expectations
Coen brothers fans have been eagerly anticipating the solo fiction directorial debut of Ethan Coen. However, it seems that their excitement may have been misplaced. “Drive-Away Dolls,” the first Coen movie without brother Joel’s involvement, is a mixed bag of B-movie influences, late-90s style, explicit lesbian content, and recycled ideas from previous Coen classics. While it attempts to be a fast-paced and raunchy road comedy, it ultimately falls short, leaving audiences feeling underwhelmed.
Set in Philadelphia in 1999, “Drive-Away Dolls” follows the story of Jamie, played by Margaret Qualley, a sexually adventurous free spirit who is adored by her gay friends. However, she has been cheating on her girlfriend Sukie (Beanie Feldstein) without remorse. After being unceremoniously dumped, Jamie moves in with Marian (Geraldine Viswanathan), a buttoned-up office worker who prefers sensible suits and serious literature. In an attempt to lift Marian’s spirits, Jamie suggests they embark on a trip to Tallahassee to visit Marian’s aunt. Little do they know that the drive-away service they sign up for has given them a Dodge Aries containing valuable contraband.
Their mix-up puts Jamie and Marian in the crosshairs of a local crime organization led by the enigmatic Chief (Colman Domingo). Two bumbling henchmen are tasked with retrieving the suitcase, leading to a series of comedic encounters as Jamie and Marian outsmart their pursuers at every turn. While the plot of “Drive-Away Dolls” takes a backseat to the film’s attempts at humor, it provides ample opportunities for Coen and his co-writer, Tricia Cooke, to include naughty jokes and references to pulp culture. However, these attempts often feel forced and unnecessary, detracting from the overall enjoyment of the movie.
The lead actresses, Qualley and Viswanathan, fully commit to their roles, with Qualley delivering frank dialogue in a Texan accent and Viswanathan providing subtle comedic reactions. However, their talents are somewhat wasted, as they are overshadowed by the film’s exaggerated characters and over-the-top humor. The male characters, played by Joey Slotnick and C.J. Wilson, do their best with dialogue that feels reminiscent of Steve Buscemi and Peter Stormare’s performances in “Fargo.” Unfortunately, the stupidity that was elevated to comedic heights in “Fargo” falls flat in “Drive-Away Dolls,” leaving audiences feeling unimpressed.
Despite its flaws, there are some bright spots in the film. Bill Camp brings a touch of realism to the movie, even amidst its most exaggerated moments. Additionally, a surprise cameo in the third act adds a momentary spark of excitement. However, these moments are not enough to salvage the overall experience.
“Drive-Away Dolls” is a playful movie filled with lighthearted characters and humor. It seems designed to defy serious criticism and encourages audiences to simply go along for the ride. While it may be easy to dismiss the film’s cartoonish violence, crude sexual banter, and retro aesthetic as part of its charm, it ultimately feels like Coen is trying too hard to be fun and entertaining. The movie starts off as a risqué adventure but quickly becomes an exhausting slog, leaving audiences feeling unsatisfied.
While “Drive-Away Dolls” may find success as a quirky cinematic oddity, it lacks substance and ultimately feels disposable. It falls short of the Coen brothers’ usual standards and fails to leave a lasting impression. With a runtime of just 84 minutes, it’s a forgettable experience that doesn’t live up to the expectations set by the talented filmmakers behind it.
“Drive-Away Dolls” is rated R and contains explicit sexual content, nudity, profanity, and some violence. It is currently playing in theaters.