This afternoon we went to the movies and saw the new Ron Howard film Rush. My husband, Ray, is a big Formula One racing fan so this was the primary motivation, but I must say that this film, which is inspired by real events, is worth seeing for anyone who loves a well-told story.
The characters are well-drawn, which is a real compliment since it might be tempting to simply go with the stereotypes when it comes to portraying race car drivers. However, the two men who are rivals represent polar opposite approaches to this very dangerous sport, and are extremely believable in their portrayals.
Actual footage of races in the mid-1970’s is intermingled with the specific races that are being re-enacted for the film, which lends a great deal of authenticity. Plus, there are shots of most the races on the Formula One circuit around the world, adding more interest for those who might not know just how world-wide this competition is.
Both actors – the very handsome Chris Hemsworth as playboy James Hunt, and the much less handsome, Daniel Bruhl as the relentlessly methodical Niki Lauda, are both convincing in their respective roles. Hemsworth captures the real life bravado of James Hunt; Bruhl nails the deeply focused Lauda’s unwillingness to let one detail go unexamined when it comes to racing. The fact that these were real people with a legendary rivalry makes it even better, particularly when dealing with race cars that travel very fast and are what Hunt describes in the movie as “nothing more than speeding coffins.” This was especially true in the 1970’s before safety restrictions were put into place to keep so many drivers from being killed while competing.
I highly recommend this movie primarily because it goes deeper than one might expect from a racing movie and explores the trajectory of the relationship between these two very different men. The writing is smart and never gets maudlin. Director Ron Howard has done a magnificent job of capturing this world of fast cars, strong egos, and sheer guts. I am happy I saw this film; I learned a few things today. While this is not specifically a message movie, there is some wisdom offered on how to deal effectively with one’s rivals in life.
So, if you want to see the inter-workings of the Formula One world, and literally find yourself on the edge of your seat, then this is the film for you. You won’t feel bad about spending money for a movie ticket for this one. The big screen is absolutely critical for this larger-than-life film.
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