Driveways

In the gentle and contemplative film Driveways, written and directed by Andrew Wagner, we meet eight-year-old Cody, a wide-eyed and introverted young boy who finds himself in an unfamiliar and somewhat foreboding setting amidst the New York suburbs. Alongside his mother Kathy, Cody is tasked with spending the summer months in this new environment, following the passing of his father and Kathy's decision to leave their city life behind for a quieter pace of living. As Cody attempts to navigate his way through the neighbourhood, he finds it difficult to connect with the other kids in the area. The children seem to be part of a clique, with their own established social hierarchy, and they are less than enthusiastic about befriending the outsider, Cody. Despite his best efforts to break into their fold, Cody's awkwardness and lack of familiarity with the local kids leave him feeling isolated and dispirited. However, all of this is about to change with the arrival of Del, the gruff but lovable elderly man who resides in the house next door. Initially, Del comes across as a cantankerous and somewhat intimidating figure, particularly to Cody who views him with a mix of fear and curiosity. Del's grouchy demeanor is a façade, and as the story unfolds, we see glimpses of a tender and compassionate soul beneath this tough exterior. The unlikely friendship between Cody and Del slowly gathers momentum, with Del taking the young boy under his wing and teaching him various lessons about life, death, and the importance of perseverance. Del's rough-around-the-edges persona is a perfect counterpoint to Cody's more vulnerable and sensitive nature, and their unlikely bond gives rise to some of the film's most poignant moments. Del's own backstory and motivations are woven subtly throughout the narrative, as we gather insights into his complex and often painful past. As Del opens up to Cody, sharing tales of his own losses and struggles, the two begin to form a deep and mutually enriching connection. Through their daily interactions, Cody starts to develop a greater appreciation for the beauty and simplicity of life, as well as the value of human relationships. Meanwhile, Kathy, played by Hong Chau, is struggling to come to terms with her own past and the circumstances that led her to leave the city and rebuild her life in the suburbs. Her relationship with Cody is fraught with tension and unresolved issues, and as the summer wears on, they face numerous challenges that threaten to disrupt the fragile progress they've made in their relationship. Cody's friendship with Del becomes a vital support system for both Kathy and Cody, serving as a catalyst for change and growth in their lives. As Del's influence helps Cody to confront his own fears and insecurities, Kathy is able to begin the process of confronting her own demons and starting anew. The film's director, Andrew Wagner, brings a gentle and compassionate touch to the narrative, balancing the delicate balance between lightness and seriousness with great finesse. The cinematography is equally impressive, capturing the quiet beauty of the suburban landscape and imbuing the film with a sense of warmth and intimacy. Driveways is a heartwarming and nuanced exploration of the complexities of human relationships, the importance of connection and community, and the transformative power of friendship. Featuring outstanding performances from the entire cast, particularly Lucas Jaye as the endearing and vulnerable Cody, this film is a poignant tribute to the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit.