Drive-Away Dolls
Movie Trailer
Release Date
February 22, 2024 (Australia)
February 23, 2024 (United States)
March 15, 2024 (United Kingdom)
Genre
Crime Comedy Road Film
Cast & Crew
- Margaret Qualley as Jamie
- Geraldine Viswanathan as Marian
- Beanie Feldstein as Sukie
- Colman Domingo as The Chief
- Pedro Pascal as Santos
- Bill Camp as Curlie
- Matt Damon as Senator Gary Channel
- Joey Slotnick as Arliss
- C.J. Wilson as Flint
- Annie Gonzalez as Carla
- Josh Flitter as the Bellboy
- Miley Cyrus as Tiffany Plastercaster (uncredited)
Director
Ethan Coen
Other Movies Director is Known For:
- The Ballad of Buster Scruggs (2018, Co-directed with Joel Coen)
- No Country for Old Men (2007, Co-directed with Joel Coen)
- Fargo (1996, Co-directed with Joel Coen)
Producer
- Ethan Coen
- Tricia Cooke
- Robert Graf
- Tim Bevan
- Eric Fellner
Writer
Ethan Coen
Tricia Cooke
Budget
Not disclosed
Production Company
- Working Title Films
Running Time
84 minutes
Languages
English
Maturity Rating
R
Content Advisory
- Violence
- Strong language
- Sexual content
- Dark humor
Movie Story
Drive-Away Dolls is a crime comedy road film set in 1999, revolving around Jamie (Margaret Qualley) and Marian (Geraldine Viswanathan), two best friends who find themselves unwittingly caught up in a dangerous criminal scheme. After Jamie’s relationship with her lover Sukie (Beanie Feldstein) ends due to her infidelity, she decides to accompany Marian on a road trip to Tallahassee, Florida. They mistakenly take a car that was intended for a trio of criminals—Arliss (Joey Slotnick), Flint (C.J. Wilson), and The Chief (Colman Domingo)—unaware that the car contains a briefcase tied to an illegal operation.
As Jamie and Marian make their way through the southern United States, they encounter a series of misadventures, including run-ins with dangerous criminals and unexpected detours. Along the way, Jamie attempts to get Marian to loosen up and enjoy life, leading to a mix of comedic and perilous situations. The plot thickens when the pair discover a gruesome surprise in the trunk of their car: a severed head and a mysterious briefcase. The criminals, now desperate to retrieve their cargo, pursue the duo across state lines, resulting in a chaotic game of cat and mouse.
In a climactic showdown in Tallahassee, the situation reaches a fever pitch as secrets are revealed, alliances are tested, and Jamie and Marian must rely on their wits to survive. The film culminates in an unexpected twist, as the duo turns the tables on their pursuers, leading to a resolution that is both humorous and darkly satisfying.
Special Effects
The special effects in Drive-Away Dolls are minimal but effective, primarily used to enhance the film’s dark humor and action sequences. The practical effects and cinematography by Ari Wegner capture the gritty, yet quirky, atmosphere of a road trip gone wrong.
Box Office Performance
Drive-Away Dolls had a modest box office performance, grossing $7.9 million worldwide. Despite mixed reviews, the film garnered attention for its unique blend of crime and comedy, as well as the strong performances by its leading actresses. The film’s limited release and niche appeal contributed to its moderate earnings.
Filming Locations
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Hopewell Township, Beaver County, Pennsylvania, USA
- Lawrence, Washington County, Pennsylvania, USA
Notable Quotes
- “It’s not the miles, it’s the madness you pick up along the way.” – Jamie
- “Sometimes, the only way out is through, even if it means driving right into the fire.” – Marian
- “You never really know someone until you’re on the run with them.” – The Chief
Behind-the-Scenes
- Drive-Away Dolls marks Ethan Coen’s first narrative film directed without his brother, Joel. Coen co-wrote and produced the film with his wife, Tricia Cooke, who also served as the film’s editor.
- The film draws inspiration from 1970s exploitation romance films and the works of John Waters, with a tone that balances dark humor and suspense.
- Principal photography took place in various locations across Pennsylvania, with the majority of the film being shot in Pittsburgh and its surrounding areas.
Final Verdict
Drive-Away Dolls is an offbeat and entertaining crime comedy that showcases Ethan Coen’s signature dark humor and sharp dialogue. While the film’s pacing and tone may not appeal to everyone, it offers a refreshing take on the road trip genre, driven by strong performances from its leads. Fans of quirky, character-driven comedies will find much to enjoy in this unconventional tale of friendship and crime.
IMDb Rating
5.4/10
Image Source: by Wilson Webb/Focus Features