Boston’s ‘Driver’s Ed’ Review: Sam Nivola Shines in Bobby Farrelly’s Unexpectedly Mild Road Trip Comedy
Abhira 
Director Bobby Farrelly takes audiences on a nostalgic ride with “Driver’s Ed,” a new road trip comedy centered around high schooler Sam Nivola’s character, who impulsively hijacks his driving instructor’s car in an attempt to win back his college girlfriend. Set against the lively backdrop of Boston, the film combines humor with heartfelt moments, though it occasionally falls short of the sharp wit fans expect from Farrelly’s previous work.
Sam Nivola delivers a solid performance, blending youthful determination with comedic timing that carries the film through its quieter stretches. The story unfolds as his character, navigating the challenges of youth and love, embarks on a chaotic yet endearing journey with his reluctant instructor. The dynamic between Nivola and his driving teacher creates many of the movie’s memorable moments.
Supporting roles by Molly Shannon and Kumail Nanjiani add extra layers of charm and humor. Shannon’s knack for quirky comedic roles shines through, while Nanjiani provides relatable and sharp-witted interactions that bring modern sensibility to the classic road trip formula. Their performances complement the lead and enrich the film’s character ensemble.
Visually, the film features appealing cinematography that captures both the urban and suburban landscapes of Boston, lending authenticity and vibrancy to the road trip narrative. However, the pacing occasionally drifts, causing the overall energy to wane in spots and impacting the comedic momentum.
“Driver’s Ed” offers a familiar roadmap filled with predictable detours. While it doesn’t reinvent the genre or deliver laugh-out-loud moments throughout, its heartfelt approach and engaging performances make it a watchable addition to summer comedy line-ups.
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