As I watched the end credits for the newly released film “Drive,” I couldn’t help but listen to what others had to say about this seemingly simplistic film. A majority of the audience announced, rather bluntly, that they didn’t understand the purpose of such a story that didn’t hold any sort of new or never-before-seen theme. Yet, as I listened to the heavily 80s influenced soundtrack playing, I knew that they were wrong.

Ryan Gosling stars as a “driver,” or someone who carries out all of the stunts seen in movies that require intense car chases or tricks, and on on the side, he also performs as a “get-away car” for any thugs in need of a quick escape from the police. His character does not seem to be too emotionally consumed, what with his stoic and nonchalant way of carrying himself. It’s safe to say that he has around 20 lines throughout the entire movie. And why is this? What the majority of the audience failed to realize is that “Drive” centers around strong character analysis as well as development; the plot of the movie is somewhat insignificant.

“Drive” pays homage to an old Western film with the leading “tragic hero” who comes riding in on his horse to save the day. Only in this case, he rides into town in an enhanced Mustang sports-car. Gosling’s character lives in the present; he severs all ties to his past and does not plan for his future. What only matters most to him is what occupies his life that split second in time and what he can do to make it through the day. In the film, Gosling is presented with two different, and very tempting, scenarios yet refuses to revel in either one of them. He does not feel the need, nor the drive, to establish himself in any sort of image that may slow him down or pave a certain path for him.

Carey Mulligan stars alongside Gosling and portrays the “damsel in distress” role spot-on. While Gosling keeps his distance from Mulligan (his wish for isolation and a clean slate prevent him from returning any form of affection), Mulligan herself offers the opportunity of love that Gosling is not able to experience. A true tragedy, indeed.

So as the screen finally blackened out, I knew that there was more to “Drive” than met the eye of any viewer. Like Gosling, it only needs a little peeling back of layers to reveal what it truly stands for.