Wheelman

Wheelman is a gripping action thriller directed and written by Jeremy Rush and first released in 2017. The film features a remarkable lead performance from Frank Grillo, who is well-known for his roles in other action-packed films such as 'Captain America: The Winter Soldier' and 'The Purge: Anarchy'. He is tactfully supported by actors Caitlin Carmichael and Garret Dillahunt who added some remarkable performances to this cinematic piece.

The title of the film, 'Wheelman', might seem to give away the role of the protagonist - however, this subtle yet clever title merely scratches the surface of the film's compelling narrative, leaving the audience to unravel the plot's true depth. The story revolves around the life of the protagonist, played by Grillo, a skilled getaway driver who is identified as an unnamed character throughout the movie. He is mostly recognized by his professional alias - the Wheelman.

Through a blend of intelligent storytelling and intense action scenes, director Jeremy Rush paints a dark and gritty picture of the protagonist’s world. The audience is instantly catapulted into this world when the Wheelman finds himself in a high-stakes situation after agreeing to work a job for some criminal elements.

As the narrative unfolds, the presence of a double-cross becomes clear; this leads to an adrenaline-pumping race against time, where the Wheelman must use his skills and wits to outmaneuver deadly unseen enemies, while working to unravel the mystery of who betrayed him. The low-light cinematography and shot selection, predominantly within the confines of the car, aids in building the movie's suspenseful atmosphere and further immerses the audience into the perilous situation the protagonist finds himself in.

In this tale of survival, betrayal, and redemption, Frank Grillo shined with his raw and authentic portrayal of the tough, determined, yet vulnerable Wheelman. His acting prowess comes to the forefront, carrying much of the film's tension as he finds himself driven into a corner, both physically and figuratively. Notably, much emotive weight was carried through Grillo's interactions with his young daughter, compellingly played by Caitlin Carmichael, as well as through the gritty voice of an anonymous manipulator, chillingly voiced by Garret Dillahunt.

Director Rush makes a distinct narrative choice in keeping the wheelman anonymous and much of the plot circulates around this notion. This lends an air of mystery and complexity to the character, allowing the audience to peer through the lens of the wheelman as he navigates his dangerous world. Through his perspective, the audience can truly grasp the stakes at play and understand the peril that each second brings.

Frank Grillo’s unnamed character is not a stereotypical hero; he is a complex, deeply human character thrown into dangerous circumstances. His consequent actions and responses represent universal human themes such as survival, redemption, and the innate instinct to protect one's family.

The use of sound, or rather the intentional use of silence, is another tool that Rush utilizes to heighten suspense, create tension, and amplify the suspense. During the regular periods of silence, audiences are left in anticipation, waiting for the next shock, surge of action, or dramatic revelation. With each passing moment, the tension builds and the plot thickens, pushing the narrative further into a layered web of suspense and intrigue.

In a nutshell, Wheelman is a gripping action thriller that uses tight storytelling, believable performances, and suspenseful sequences to create an intense cinematic experience. The film expertly maintains high tension and delivers a thrilling joyride from start to finish. It is not just a movie about a getaway driver, but a tale about humanity, survival, and one man's resolution to protect what he values most - his family.

Fair warning to viewers seeking a typical, linear, mundane action movie - Wheelman breaks away from clichés, delivering a tense one-man show where audiences are trapped in the confines of a car and the gripping narrative within. As the wheelman navigates through the dangerous maze, the audience is taken on a thrilling, adrenaline-fueled journey that truly tests the limits of human resilience and creates a powerful impact that is sure to linger long after the credits roll. Whether you're an action aficionado or a casual movie-goer, Wheelman promises to be a unique and memorable cinematic experience.