Watch Siji: Driver

Siji: Driver is a crime thriller movie that follows the highly intelligent Chineses immigrant, Siji (played by Stephen Lin), who is working as a ride-share driver to make ends meet. Despite being a talented software engineer, he is unable to secure a full-time job due to his lack of work authorization. One night, he picks up a passenger and finds himself in the middle of a dangerous crime syndicate.

The movie is set in New York City and showcases the daily struggles of an undocumented immigrant trying to make a living in a city that never stops moving. Siji's life is turned upside down when he accepts a ride from a stranger who turns out to be a member of a ruthless Chinese gang. From this point, the movie thrills and chills with a rollercoaster of events that forces Siji to use his intelligence and wits to survive.

As the story progresses, we are introduced to a vast array of characters who help or hinder Siji's journey. One of whom is Lou (played by Lou Martini Jr.), a gruff and street-wise detective who initially considers Siji a suspect in a case he is investigating. Despite their initial misconception, the two soon develop a bond as they begin to unveil the hidden secrets of the gang and the illegal activities they are involved with.

The movie's main character shows incredible intelligence and problem-solving abilities. His engineering background plays a critical role in how he outwits his captors and stays one step ahead of the gang. The film showcases Siji's ability to hack into computer systems and his ability to think on his feet. For his role, Stephen Lin flawlessly portrays a character who is way out of his comfort zone but uses his intelligence to overcome the odds stacked against him.

Candice Zhao, who plays Anna in the movie, is not an insignificant role. Her character is the catalyst for the events that unfold later in the story. Anna is the estranged wife of one of the gang leaders and Siji's initial passenger. She is trying to escape her life with the gang and makes a request for Siji to take her to the airport. Siji initially refuses, fearing he could lose his livelihood, but upon realizing Anna's plight, decides to help her.

The movie has plenty of suspenseful moments that keep the audience on edge. The action scenes are gripping and well-executed. There are car chases and intense fistfights that are choreographed to perfection. The soundtrack of the film is excellent and adds to the panic-inducing scenes.

Furthermore, the movie is not merely an action movie. It effectively portrays the challenges that immigrants face in a foreign country. Siji's character is shown navigating life on a work visa while trying to make ends meet. The movie does not shy away from showing the daily struggles of his life, including his nightlife, lonesomeness, and his fear of being deported.

Siji: Driver from 2018 is a well-executed crime-thriller with a unique take on the immigrant experience in New York City. The well-crafted storyline, coupled with excellent acting and suspenseful scenes, guarantees a thrilling watching experience. The movie also shows the oft-forgotten plight of illegal immigrants in the US, making its social commentary valuable today more than ever.