“Drive-Away Dolls” is led by Margaret Qualley (“One Upon a Time in Hollywood”) and Geraldine Viswanathan (“Blockers”). It centers on Jamie (Qualley), an uninhibited free spirit reeling from another breakup with a girlfriend, and her more reserved friend Marian (Viswanathan) who needs to lighten up. Searching for a fresh start, they set out on a spontaneous road trip to Tallahassee. Things go south in a hurry when they cross paths with a group of inept criminals. The cast also includes Pedro Pascal (“The Mandalorian”), Matt Damon (“Air”), Beanie Feldstein (“Booksmart”), and recent Oscar nominee Colman Domingo (“Rustin”).
Focus does seem to have confidence in the movie, as it was originally due to arrive in theaters last fall. It was, however, delayed due to the SAG-AFTRA strike and the inability of the cast to promote it. Not for nothing, but it also made /Film’s list of the most anticipated movies of the year. If we assume that Focus kept the budget in the $20 million range, this could still be a success in a more modern way. It will make what it makes in theaters, but then ultimately find a home on VOD, where it is likely to perform better.
Coen co-wrote the screenplay alongside Tricia Cooke. It’s the only narrative feature that Ethan Coen has directed by himself, with his only other solo effort to date being the documentary “Jerry Lee Lewis: Trouble in Mind.” Coen and Cooke also produced the film alongside Robert Graf, Tim Bevan, and Eric Fellner.
“Dive-Away Dolls” hits theaters on February 23, 2024.