Disc Reviews

Locke Blu-ray Review

19th Aug 2014

Ivan Locke’s life is about to unfurl before us – and it will all take place in the car journey from Birmingham to London one night when he makes a decision that will alter the course of his life. His family, work and relationships will never be the same again.

The film follows Ivan’s journey and tension mounts as he is forced to deal with a handful of individuals from his personal and professional life as they react to the choice that he has made. Ivan’s calm demeanour is constantly tested as tension mounts the further he gets away from what he considers home.

It’s a powerful performance from Tom hardy who is literally the only character we ever see on screen who never leaves his car. The camera shots from various directions and occasionally drifts outside at the world he passes and that passes him by on the night time motorway. It’s beautifully realised.

The only bone of contention in this very tight script is Ivan’s conversations with his imaginary father. Once too often he falls into dialogue this way, but it was never really needed. It isn’t a deal breaker however as Hardy keeps his performance focussed without ever slipping off the rails. In fact this is a perfect testament to Hardy’s professional approach to work showing that his skills work for the big and small budget films.

The Blu-ray comes with a short but fairly informative behind the scenes featurette showcasing how the film was filmed on the road, with the supporting cast literally phoning it in. Steven Knight also provides a director’s commentary which is just as informative.