The Driven Ones (2023)

Review Team

4/5

The Driven Ones presents a compelling exploration of young adulthood through the lens of five international students navigating their academic and personal lives at the University of St. Gallen. Directed by Piet Baumgartner, the film effectively captures the essence of ambition, friendship, and the ... Show more >> The Driven Ones presents a compelling exploration of young adulthood through the lens of five international students navigating their academic and personal lives at the University of St. Gallen. Directed by Piet Baumgartner, the film effectively captures the essence of ambition, friendship, and the pressures that accompany the transition into professional life. Each character is well-developed, allowing viewers to empathise with their struggles and triumphs. The cinematography beautifully complements the narrative, highlighting both the vibrancy of campus life and the introspective moments of the characters. While the pacing may lag in some areas, the film ultimately delivers a poignant message about growth and self-discovery. It is a thought-provoking watch that resonates with anyone who has faced similar challenges in their journey. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

The Driven Ones has its heart in the right place but feels a bit like a missed opportunity. Following five economy students, the film tries to tackle the complexities of young adulthood but often gets bogged down in predictability. The performances are solid, but there are moments where the characte ... Show more >> The Driven Ones has its heart in the right place but feels a bit like a missed opportunity. Following five economy students, the film tries to tackle the complexities of young adulthood but often gets bogged down in predictability. The performances are solid, but there are moments where the characters feel more like archetypes than fully fleshed individuals. While the cinematography captures the beauty of the University of St. Gallen, it sometimes overshadows the narrative, which could have been more engaging. The film does have its emotional beats, and some scenes resonate deeply, particularly those exploring friendship. However, the overall experience left me wanting more depth in the storytelling. It's an enjoyable watch, but perhaps not essential viewing. Show less