I’m a sucker for a cross-country, road trip film (in any form). My formative pubescent years were heavily colored by the comic menace of Tom Green, after all (only real ones will get the reference; only true ones will respect the reference). Still, even I was a little skeptical of a solo Ethan Coen brother movie. With Drive-Away Dolls you can definitely feel Joel Coen. The film lacks balance, sophistication, and sometimes, competency. It wasn’t until about 30 minutes in that I realized this was part of the film’s charm. This film has character and personality, which makes its flaws feel distinctive and intentional (even if it is all by accident).
This is a road trip movie with horny, energetic lesbians outrunning a band of dopey mobsters en route to Tallahassee in a rickety Dodge Aries. It doesn’t get more American than that. But, more specifically, this is a quirky, irreverent slice of blue-collar life in its most uninhibited form. Margaret Qualley’s southern accent is definitely a “choice,” but her chemistry with Geraldine Viswanathan is infectious and engaging. The supporting cast is insane, including Coleman Domingo, Pedro Pascal, Matt Damon, Beanie Feldstein, Bill Camp, and Miley Cyrus (yes, MILEY CYRUS), to name a few.
Seeing this much talent gathered together to play the most absurd characters is part of the film’s endless delight. Many have already proclaimed their fervent hate for this movie. Some have even questioned if Joel’s been carrying the iconic brother duo to prestigious heights given this film’s messy construction. I’m happy to report that I am not one of them. I found Drive-Away Dolls to have strong rewatchabilty potential, and perhaps, a cultish following in years to come.
