Entertainment

'Learning To Drive' Is All About Friendship

by Aramide Tinubu

It can be extremely difficult to forge new friendships once you are well into your adult years. However, the Toronto International Film Festival's 2014 People's Choice Winner Learning to Drive proves the best friendships are forged at the most unlikely of times, and often with the most surprising people. The film, which stars Patricia Clarkson and Ben Kingsley, follows Wendy (Clarkson), a writer and recent divorcée who is taking driving lessons from Darwan (Kingsley) after having spent many years relying on her then-husband for rides. As Wendy's marriage is ending, Darwan is embarking on a new chapter of his life with an impending arranged marriage to Jasleen (Sarita Choudhury), a woman from his childhood home. Of course, the act of learning how to operate a vehicle is no small feat: It involves a belief in your own abilities, and, most importantly, a deep trust in your teacher. As Wendy begins to navigate the tumultuous streets of New York City, she and Darwan bond over much more than driving. They learn about life, love, and friendship from one another, as indicated in these exclusive Learning to Drive photos.

Clarkson and Kingsley aren't the only familiar faces in the film. American Horror Story: Coven alum (and Meryl Streep's daughter) Grace Gummer stars as Tasha — Wendy's daughter who is exasperated by her parents' trials and tribulations — and acting veteran Sarita Choudhury, both of whom help take this heartwarming comedy to new heights.

These exclusive stunning photographs from the film prove that, despite our difference, we are inherently connected by the same things.

Patricia Clarkson As Wendy Shields

Trying to move on from a marriage — or any failed relationship, for that matter — can prove to be extremely difficult, especially when the subject of your broken relationship keeps coming up.

Ben Kingsley As Darwan Singh Tur

It is often not just the teacher who is giving out knowledge. If you listen close enough, you can also learn valuable things from students.

Grace Gummer As Tasha

Even as an adult, it's difficult to watch your parents' lives fall apart.

Sarita Choudhury As Jasleen

The beginning of a new relationship is often just as scary as the ending of one.

Learning to Drive hits theaters Aug 21. Watch the trailer below:

Images: Linda Kallerus/Broad Green Pictures (2); Broad Green Pictures (3)