Top 10 Getaway Drivers

A getaway driver doesn’t always need help, but sometimes it’s necessary. In Dominic Sena’s heist flick, the legendary Randall “Memphis” Raines utilizes his talents to keep a British gangster away from his family. Memphis is a quirky old pro, but he’s smart enough to organize a 50-car heist that will save his younger bro’s life. With so much experience, Memphis naturally reflects on his past jobs, which sometimes affects his decision-making. But let’s be clear: Memphis Raines knows the tricks of the trade, and he knows what makes people tick. So, when it’s time to work, it’s just a matter of executing the plan while minimizing collateral damage.

In David Mackenzie’s neo-Western thriller, the end justifies the means. Furthermore, it’s a family affair for getaway driver Toby Howard, as he teams up with brother Tanner to avenge the wrongs done to their late mother. On the road, it’s not about sharp turns and big city maneuvering - it’s more about anticipation and knowing the surrounding country. While Toby has plenty of charisma and charm, he’s not a getaway driver that seeks attention – he’s looking for justice as a matter of principle. And so, Toby must be taken seriously because he’s got little to lose and everything to gain.

#8: Richard Chance “To Live and Die in L.A.” (1985)

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This man is not your traditional getaway driver. In fact, Richard Chance isn’t even the prototypical “baddie” in William Friedkin’s film – that honor goes to Willem Dafoe’s Eric “Rick” Masters. But Chance does have something going for him: he’s simply a reckless individual. So, when he puts the pedal to the metal, you better believe that it won’t be a smooth ride. But despite his unpredictability and personal troubles, Chance doesn’t necessarily have a death wish. And so, he’s cool and collected while navigating the L.A. streets, even if everything around him is complete madness.

While he’s certainly not the only driver in this film, Roger would probably fit the bill of what you’d call the strong and silent type. There’s no denying he’s an essential part of Charlie Croker’s team when they set out to steal $4 million in gold, as he’s present in many of the caper flick’s scenes. And yet instead of making his mark with words, he does it with his driving skills – as well as his readiness to do whatever it takes to get the job done, including disguising himself as a football fan. Meanwhile, for the 2003 remake, Handsome Rob conveys a little more grit, yet is also someone that can multi-task under pressure.

Whereas some getaway drivers are hired specifically for their skills, this man is a true Texas outlaw. In Sam Peckinpah’s flick, Doc breaks free from jail, but he’s not a lone wolf - he’s a married man. So, with his wife Carol riding shotgun, Doc has quite the incentive to stay on the tracks, so to speak. This getaway driver is representative of the classic American outlaw; a man that doesn’t play by the rules, but still needs love. Furthermore, Doc knows how to handle a gun, making him even more dangerous to his enemies. At the end of the day, Doc survives through a versatile skill set and a major chip on his shoulder.

#5: C.W. Moss “Bonnie and Clyde” (1967)

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Here’s a guy that won’t exactly school you with smarts – unless it comes to cars. Based on the real life Barrow Gang member W.D. Jones, C.W. Moss has major value because he’s always ready to prove himself, especially when challenged by Bonnie and Clyde. Like many outlaws, he’s a flawed young man and perhaps not the brightest of the bunch, yet his knowledge and naiveté make him a crucial asset. He didn’t seek out his position, as the opportunity presented itself. And though C.W.’s immaturity proves to be quite problematic, the kid gets the job done when given the opportunity.

This nameless character is a legitimate master of his craft. Not only does The Driver understand how to navigate a metropolis like Los Angeles; he also knows his enemies, most notably a hardened detective known as… “The Detective.” He’s a man that enjoys the danger and psychology of it all, yet he keeps his composure in the most crucial of moments. Whereas some guys can just flat out burn, The Driver paints the town with strategic moves and unfathomable efficiency. In fact, he’s so brilliant on the road that law enforcement must respect him, even if they despise what the “Cowboy” stands for.

As a former street racer, this tough guy most definitely has street smarts. But as a getaway driver, there are few others that can operate like Dominic Toretto. He’s not only an ambitious criminal; he also understands the human element and how to manipulate situations to his advantage. With that being said, Dom is at his best when his loved ones are at risk; a concept that fuels the entire franchise as a whole. For the 2001 original, though, Dominic jumps off the screen with his immense confidence and bravado, as he’s always one step ahead, both on and off the road.

Personally and professionally, this man doesn’t necessarily play by the rules. Yet, Frank Martin does live by a code, and he’s completely fearless. He’s a stylish fellow, and image is most definitely part of his getaway driver persona. But Frank isn’t begging anyone for work, nor does he have time for people that disrespect his simple requests. And so, it’s this type of life structure that allows him to stay focused under difficult circumstances. It’s not that Frank Martin is smarter or more talented than other getaway drivers; it’s that he’ll take extreme measures to accomplish his mission. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. - Sam “Ronin” (1998) - Peter Roberts “Drive Hard” (2014)

At first glance, this guy looks just like a typical Hollywood stuntman. But he’s not a driver that gets work because of his charming personality. Nope, this driver succeeds because work is his primary focus, and he does not appreciate those who disrupt his plans. Regardless of the Driver’s personality issues, he’s mostly calm – mostly - and when the pressure is on, he blocks out the surrounding noise. He’s a man that communicates through his actions, and some of them are indeed disturbing. But for movie getaway drivers, there’s nobody more focused and committed than the Driver – and despite his behavior, he’s a sympathetic figure, perhaps because he’s more comfortable at work than with actual human beings.