Drive-Away Dolls is a comedic lesbian road trip adventure that exudes a playful R-rated and unapologetically queer vibe. It obviously draws inspiration from B-movies as well as 1960s psychedelia cinema but with a modern twist. So, going into Drive-Away Dolls I wasn’t 100% sure what I was getting into. That said, I’m so glad I went in fully open-minded.

Drive-Away Dolls is written by Tricia Cooke as well as her husband, Ethan Coen. Coen also directed the movie and his stamp is all over it. It has fast cutaways to the psychedelic silliness, and even his familiar vernacular. In an interview with AP Tricia Cook said, “I kind of represent the queer world. All of the bumbling men in the movie and all of the caper stuff definitely comes from Ethan’s mind.” This statement couldn’t be more true.

So, the story follows two friends who are headed on a road trip. One, to see family, the other running away from her personal drama. However, when getting their rental, the girls are given a vehicle that wasn’t meant for them. It also carries an important package.

DRIVE-AWAY DOLLS IS HILARIOUS AND WITTY

The thrilling narrative is complemented by engaging performances. However, it is the blend of Coen’s captivating directing style and the collaborative writing of Coen and Cooke that elevates this film to a standout piece. Their movie does an excellent job of blending Cooke’s witty humor with the Coen brothers’ characteristic storyline of hapless criminals.

In order to move the storyline along, Drive-Away Dolls effortlessly switches back and forth between Marian and Jamie’s borrowed car and the criminals’ pursuing vehicle, presenting viewers with not just one, but two sets of mismatched and quarrelsome companions on the road. There are also seemingly random psycadelic moments with a certain pop star that will make perfect sense once you get to the end.

GERALDINE VISWANATHAN AND MARGARET QUALLEY ARE SPECTACULAR

While the trailer for Drive-Away Dolls shows big names like Pedro Pascal (The Last of Us) and Matt Damon (Oppenheimer), the film isn’t about them. They are the Drew Berrymore to Scream.

The film actually stars Geraldine Viswanathan (Blockers) and Margaret Qualley (Maid/Poor Things) as the lead characters. The two friends couldn’t be more opposite. Marian (Viswanathan) is very uptight and buttoned up dreaming of finding love. Jamie (Qualley) is a fast-talking, charmer who can’t keep her hands to herself, even when in a relationship. I enjoyed watching these two characters learn about themselves through the other because the two of them bring out the best in each other. This dynamic is what you look for in friendships and intimate relationships.

Throughout the raunchy and ridiculousness of it all, Qualley and Viswanathan provide the foundation for the film with their compelling performances. Geraldine Viswanathan is fantastic with her subtly captivating charm. Margaret Qualley’s performance as Jamie radiates an explosive energy that solidifies her as a talent of a lifetime.

Drive-Away Dolls hits theaters on Friday, February 23, 2024! Don’t miss it!

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