On DVD and Blu-Ray - "Locke" (2014) - An excellent performance from Tom Hardy drives (quite literally) this Drama/Character Study concerning a construction supervisor and dedicated family man who, on the eve of an enormous career challenge, makes a decision that will irrevocably change his life. The narrative concerns the defining moment of an imperfect, but well-intentioned soul confronting a moral dilemma of epic proportions as he seeks to take responsibility for a past indiscretion.
It's important to convey that about 99.5% of this film takes place inside an automobile traveling down a lengthy stretch of highway, with Hardy the lone onscreen actor- his character converses with several other characters (sight unseen) via hands-free phone for the entirety of the film. If you're O.K. with this particular setup, then continue on.
***SPOILERS***
The night before he's set to coordinate the mother of all concrete pours, our protagonist receives a call from a former one night stand revealing that she is about to give birth to his child- in an attempt to distance himself from the wretched, irresponsible Father that he barely knew, Locke decides to take the two hour trip down a busy highway to attend the delivery. The decision throws the pour into doubt, which subsequently sets off an irate superior and panics an ill-equipped work colleague. Locke's wife and teenaged sons are understandably confused while the woman about to have his baby isn't the brightest bulb in the shed. A series of work-related setbacks ensue while the incessant calls from concerned family members and colleagues finds Locke straining under the mounting pressure. Throw in a severe head cold and you've got one helluva conflict-riddled night drive.
***END OF SPOILERS***
Hardy (Warrior) is first-rate here- this is dialogue-heavy material and most will get a kick out of his interesting accent. This is a pure acting clinic for those seeking natural ability and nuance in their film performances- scenes where Locke is railing in the rear-view mirror towards an empty backseat hint at a talent that may very well be near its peak, professionally. I was on the fence concerning Hardy playing "Mad Max Rockatansky" in 2015's Fury Road, though I find myself much more comfortable with that now.
I did have issues with the timeline and couldn't believe that one man would be so very important to such a large build. It would be rather short-sighted and implausible, although not impossible, to have one man's absence destroy a massive construction endeavor.
The film features a worthwhile musical score and the various shots of nighttime traffic lights as they splay upon the vehicle's windshield makes for beautifully simplistic cinematography. Director Steven Knight (Redemption) keeps the camera angles and editing fresh and active- although the stage/setting does not change, I don't believe I ever zoned out.
Although there's very little replay value to speak of, Locke comes recommended for those looking for an excellent, singular, showcase performance framed in a minimalist setting.
8.0 out of 10
Director: Steven Knight
Cast: Tom Hardy, Olivia Colman, Ruth Wilson, Andrew Scott, Ben Daniels, Tom Holland, Bill Milner and Danny Webb
Run-Time: 85 minutes
MPAA: Rated R for language throughout.
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