Locke
2013

Locke

★ 7.1 / 10
IMDb
Directed by Steven Knight
Watch Trailer
Synopsis

Locke is a 2013 drama film that takes place almost entirely within a car, as the protagonist Ivan Locke, played by Tom Hardy, engages in a series of phone calls. These conversations reveal a personal crisis that threatens his family and career, all unfolding in real-time during his drive.

Why Watch It
Tom Hardy delivers a masterclass in minimalist acting, carrying the entire film from inside a car as his character's life unravels through a single night of phone calls. Director Steven Knight transforms what could be gimmicky—a one-man show on wheels—into a taut, emotionally devastating meditation on responsibility and consequence. It's a film that proves cinema's power to captivate through tension and performance alone, with zero wasted motion.
Did You Know?
  • Entire movie takes place in a car, during real-time drive.
  • Shot in just eight nights.
  • Tom Hardy had a broken toe during filming.
  • Only two sets were used – car interior and phone booth.
  • The rear view mirror was removed to provide an unobstructed view.
Iconic Quotes
  • Just make one decision, Ivan.
  • It's the difference between never and once. It's the difference between right and wrong.
  • You make one mistake, Ivan. One little fucking mistake.
  • I will do what needs to be done, no matter what.
  • Now, the traffic is OK. You will make it. You will.
Editorial

Why Eltorama recommends this film

Tom Hardy drives from Birmingham to London. The phone rings. It keeps ringing for the next 85 minutes. Steven Knight built a one-man drama out of two ongoing crises and a steering wheel. There is no other set.
Appears in  Midnight Chronicles →
The movie takes place over the course of one car ride at night.