Wheelman (2017)

Wheelman (2017) stands out as a lean, mean adrenaline machine that proves less can be more in the crowded landscape of action thrillers. This Netflix original film delivers intense car-chase action and psychological suspense, all while keeping viewers confined to the driver's seat for a taut 90-minute runtime.

Outstanding Performance in the Driver's Seat

A High-Speed Game of Survival

Frank Grillo stars as the titular Wheelman, a skilled getaway driver fresh out of prison after serving three years for arson. Trying to rebuild his life and relationship with his 13-year-old daughter, he takes one last job to settle an old debt. What should have been a routine getaway drive spirals into chaos when a mysterious phone call forces him to change course, throwing him into the crossfire between rival crime organizations.

A High-Stakes Story on Four Wheels

The film's unique approach of setting almost every scene inside the car puts enormous pressure on Grillo's performance – and he delivers well. Through a series of increasingly tense phone calls with crime bosses, a betraying friend, his ex-wife, and his concerned daughter, Grillo portrays a man desperately trying to navigate both city streets and dangerous waters of the criminal underworld.

Technical Excellence in Confined Spaces

What makes Wheelman particularly impressive is how it turns its limitations into strengths. The claustrophobic setting of the driver's seat heightens tension, while the impressive driving sequences and cinematography keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The film's brisk pace matches its premise perfectly, never letting up from the moment the engine starts.

A Relatable Protagonist Under Pressure

Despite his criminal background, the Wheelman emerges as a surprisingly relatable character. He's not a hardened criminal but rather an everyday person who made mistakes and is now trying to protect his family while making things right. This emotional core gives weight to the action, making every chase and confrontation feel personally meaningful.

Beyond the surface-level thrills, Wheelman explores themes of redemption, family loyalty, and the consequences of past mistakes. The protagonist's relationship with his daughter adds emotional depth, while his desperate situation raises questions about how far someone might go to protect their loved ones.

More Than Just an Action Film

The Verdict

Wheelman proves that sometimes the best action thrillers come in small packages. With its focused storytelling, strong central performance, and innovative approach to filming, it delivers a satisfying experience that makes the most of its 90-minute runtime. For fans of intense car chases, psychological thrillers, or simply short-but-sweet action films, this one deserves a spot in your watchlist.

• Taut, confined-space thrillers

• Intense driving sequences

• Character-driven action films

• Movies like Drive, Locke, or Phone Booth

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