“The Driver’s Seat,” also known as “Identikit,” is a 1974 psychological thriller starring the legendary Elizabeth Taylor in a departure from her usual roles. Directed by Giuseppe Patroni Griffi, this film takes audiences on a suspenseful journey into a troubled woman’s mind, searching for something elusive in her life.
The story centers around Lise, portrayed by Elizabeth Taylor, a middle-aged and emotionally unstable woman who embarks on a mysterious and unconventional journey. Seemingly dissatisfied with her mundane life, Lise leaves her job, friends, and family behind to embark on a solitary vacation to an unnamed European city.
Upon her arrival, an incident at the airport causes her to interact with an English Lord, played by Andy Warhol. The scene is relatively abstract. As a result, Lise’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic and unpredictable. She engages in bizarre and provocative interactions with strangers, drawing the attention of the authorities and fellow travelers. Her quest for something elusive and intense takes her to the fringes of society, where she encounters a series of peculiar characters. Her journey for a dangerous liaison starts on the plane. It continues throughout the film, including a lecherous British businessman, an elderly woman she bonds with to go shopping, and a Frenchman who hopes to seduce her.
As the film unfolds, the audience is in suspense about Lise’s true intentions and motivations. Her actions and encounters blur the lines between reality and her perception, leaving viewers to question her sanity and the true nature of her journey.
Throughout “The Driver’s Seat,” Elizabeth Taylor delivers a mesmerizing and enigmatic performance as Lise, capturing the character’s vulnerability and instability. The film’s unconventional narrative style and haunting cinematography add to the sense of unease, making it a unique and atmospheric thriller.
“The Driver’s Seat” explores a woman’s descent into madness and her quest for an elusive sense of liberation. As the story progresses, it becomes increasingly clear that Lise’s journey is complex and deeply personal, and the film’s enigmatic ending leaves audiences with lingering questions about her true motivations.
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