LOCKE (2013)

If there were ever any doubt that Tom Hardy is one of the best, most underrated actors working today - Locke should take care of that.  Virtually a one-man film, it tells the story of a good family man, Ivan Locke (Hardy), always responsible and devoted to both family and his career as an on-site construction manager, who - because of one phone call - one night climbs into his BMW after work and risks throwing everything away.  The entire film, consisting of Ivan's night-time ride alone in his car, is far from static or dull, as - still always trying to do the right thing - he carries on multiple conversations with his wife, children, boss, and employees, trying to remain the "good man" by smoothing over missing work the next day and not going home that night ... all while things spiral more out of control as Ivan drives on (and on) into the night on his quest to right a horrible wrong.  Hardy is utterly convincing, the low-budget film building tension even as the creeping sensation that none of this can end well overtakes you.  Hardy truly is a marvel. (rated R)  B+

LOCKE trailer