Energetically
directed by James Mangold (Logan), Ford
V Ferrari is a kinetic, true story of the trials and competition of being
the best in car racing.
In
the early sixties, former driver Carroll Shelby (Matt Damon is excellent) works
behind the scenes as innovator of faster, more efficient race cars. Hired by Henry
Ford II to beat rival and perennial winner, Ferrari, at the grueling 24 hour Le
Mans race, Shelby enlists driver Ken Miles (Christian Bale totally winning) to
design a better race car and lead his team to victory. Shelby and Ford must contend with dangerous road
tests, stiff competition from other car makers, and corporate meddling which culminates in a tense showdown at Le Mans
racetrack.
The
film conveys a fascinating history with real life figures like Lee Iacocca, and
its narrative is propelled by the relationship
of Shelby and Miles, two racing pioneers who fight, argue and bond over their quest
for racing excellence. Shelby, a
maverick and hustler, knows he can deliver a championship if given support; his
seemingly reckless demeanor belies automotive acumen. Miles is a temperamental
driver who understands cars better than a computer. Despite a lack of background on Shelby’s
personal life, we see Miles in some touching moments with his wife and son.
With
memorable moments including a brotherly fist fight and a hilarious test drive
with a Ford executive, the brilliantly
staged racing scenes stand out. The film is a bit long like a Le Mans
marathon, but camerawork, editing, and sound
are exemplary for maximum effect and demand a big screen with optimal sound.
Told
with conviction, it’s an old fashioned film with heart about human ingenuity
and the men and machines that fought for glory.
***1/2
of **** stars (add ½* for racing enthusiasts)
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