David Arrow’s The Drive is a quietly powerful exploration of childhood innocence, family bonds and the far-reaching human consequences of national tragedy. Inspired by real events surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the film takes a bold, alternative approach to one of the most defining moments in modern American history. Rather than focusing on the political figures and events that shaped the headlines, Arrow tells the story through the eyes of a Liz (Amber Paul), an ordinary mother and the children in her care, whose routine school run becomes an unforgettable journey as news of the assassination unfolds.
Set almost entirely within the confines of a single car journey, The Drive makes effective use of an everyday situation to explore the extraordinary ways in which history can suddenly intrude upon our lives. What begins as an unremarkable day gradually takes on a different significance as the news spreads, with the growing sense of uncertainty and unease capturing the emotional impact of a nation coming to terms with an incomprehensible tragedy. There is something almost suspenseful about experiencing these events through Liz and the unsuspecting children in her backseat, as she struggles to process the news and grapple with what to do next.
Arrow’s human-centred approach is a refreshing alternative to more conventional historical dramas, placing emotional authenticity and personal connection above spectacle. The early-1960s setting is particularly convincing, with the period detail and visual atmosphere transporting us back to an America suddenly shaken by tragedy. Paul gives a terrific performance as Liz, conveying a complex mixture of shock, anxiety and maternal instinct with remarkable subtlety. With relatively little dialogue, Paul manages to convey her turmoil through facial expressions and small gestures effectively.
The Drive is a thoughtful and affecting short that finds a deeply personal story within a moment of enormous historical significance. By shifting the focus away from the familiar images of political history, Arrow reminds us that behind every major news event are countless individual experiences, memories and lives changed forever. In its intimate approach to a national tragedy, the film would make a fascinating companion piece to Pablo Larraín’s masterful Jackie, which is high praise. Ultimately, The Drive is a moving reflection on the fragility of everyday life, the loss of innocence and the enduring importance of human connection in times of uncertainty.
Brian Cotter
