Blu-Ray Review: Locke

By Brad Henderson

Sometimes I will look at a film differently depending on how it is made, obstacles that were overcome during production, or something as seemingly insignificant as maybe a story behind it. I wouldn’t say Locke falls under any of the categories but it is a film that stands out from the rest.

I consider Locke a minimalist film. Locke does so much with so little it is quite impressive. You may think I’m speaking of an indie film and I kind of am, but not really. Let’s back up for second and go back to minimalist. There are a few films that could fit under this category and will maybe give you a better perspective of what I’m talking about. Films like Phone Booth, Buried, 12 Angry Men, and even The Breakfast Club could be considered minimalist films. These films are usually set in one location and rely solely on a good script, perfect dialogue, and great actors. Do you get what I’m talking about now? I thought so.

To me, Locke is a perfect film. Locke takes place in one location with only one actor on screen with a perfect script that is compelling and intriguing. I don’t want to give too much away because it is much more interesting and exciting if you don’t know where Locke is going. It leaves you a little in the dark because everything is a surprise. . . like most movies should be.

In this film we follow, Ivan Locke who is getting off of work and heading to his destination which you would think is home, but isn’t. He calls his family to let them know he won’t be home tonight; he is en route to a place that will change his life forever. During this car ride, Locke’s life—from his job, family, and future—changes, all within a hour and a half.

With an outstanding script and a stellar performance by Tom Hardy, we have one of the best films of the year. It is amazing how we can be in the car with a character for over an hour or so and still experience so much suspense and tension from something so small and ordinary. With a film like Locke I can’t recommend it enough, but also can’t say much about, either, mainly because the film is so small, but does everything right.

Locke was released on Blu-Ray on August 12 from Lionsgate Films.