An Essay Published in The New Yorker Adapted for Film

Based on an essay by Kasa Boliit, recounting her real-life experiences, published in "The New Yorker" magazine in 2002, "Learning to Drive"—a story where driving lessons unexpectedly transform into "life lessons"—will be screened in Japan. The film has been adapted with some creative liberties.

The film is directed by Isabel Coixet, who gained international recognition for "My Life Without Me" (2003) and is also known for "Elegy" (2009), starring Rinko Kikuchi.

The lead role is played by acclaimed actress Patricia Clarkson, who was deeply moved by the script and initiated the film's production. She embodies a relatable woman re-evaluating her life after her husband's infidelity. Opposite her, the Indian taxi driver is portrayed by fellow acting powerhouse and Oscar winner Ben Kingsley, creating a brilliant contrast with Clarkson.

Wendy Receives Lessons from a Taxi Driver

Wendy, a successful book critic living in Manhattan, was living a life of smooth sailing. However, her world collapses when her husband of many years, finding their marriage strained, leaves her for his mistress.

Throughout her life, Wendy had always relied on her husband for driving, never driving herself or even having a license. To confront her new reality, Wendy decides to pursue a driver's license under the guidance of Darwan, an Indian taxi driver she met when he returned a forgotten item.

Darwan is a man of tradition, with contrasting religion, culture, and social class. Meeting the gentlemanly Darwan and receiving his driving advice gradually begins to change Wendy's heart, which had been clinging to beautiful memories of the past.

Wendy begins to contemplate the lives of others, something she had never imagined, and re-examines her own way of living. Wendy's story, in which she finds her true self, is underpinned by the warm message that "life can always begin anew."




"Learning to Drive"
Opens nationwide on Friday, August 28th, at TOHO CINEMAS Nihonbashi, TOHO CINEMAS Roppongi Hills, and other theaters.
Director | Isabel Coixet
Starring | Patricia Clarkson, Ben Kingsley, Jake Weber, Sarita Choudhury, Grace Gummer
Distributor | Longride
2014 | USA | 90 min | Original Title: "Learning to Drive"
http://www.shiawase-mawarimichi.com


© 2015, BPG Releasing, LLC. All Rights Reserved.