Driveways (2019)

Driveways is a 2019 drama film directed by Andrew Ahn and written by Hannah Bos and Paul Thureen. The film stars Hong Chau, Lucas Jaye, and Brian Dennehy. It tells the story of a single mother named Kathy and her 8-year-old son Cody, who travel to a small town to clean out the house of Kathy’s deceased sister. There, they meet their neighbor, a lonely and reclusive veteran named Del, who forms a heartwarming friendship with Cody. As the three spend time together, they learn to confront their past and find connection and hope in unexpected ways.

Review:

Driveways is a touching and emotionally resonant film that beautifully explores themes of loneliness, friendship, and human connection. The performances by the cast, particularly Brian Dennehy in his final film role, are outstanding, bringing depth and authenticity to the characters and their relationships.

The film’s pacing and tone are gentle and reflective, allowing the characters and their interactions to take center stage. The relationship between Cody and Del is heartwarming and authentic, portraying a genuine and meaningful connection between two unlikely friends. Their interactions are full of small but poignant moments that capture the beauty and power of human connection.

The film’s exploration of grief and loss is handled with sensitivity and nuance, providing a moving and insightful portrayal of the impact of loss on individuals and communities. The film’s final scenes are powerful and deeply affecting, leaving a lasting impression on the viewer.

Awards:

Driveways received critical acclaim and was nominated for several awards, including the Independent Spirit Award for Best First Screenplay and the Grand Jury Prize at the Deauville American Film Festival. Brian Dennehy won the Best Supporting Actor award at the National Board of Review for his performance in the film.

Overall, Driveways is a touching and poignant film that captures the power and beauty of human connection in the face of loss and loneliness. It is a testament to the importance of kindness and empathy in building meaningful relationships and finding hope in the most unexpected places.