YEAR OF RELEASE: 2019
GENRE: DRAMA/SPORT
RUN TIME: 2h 32m
Ford v Ferrari is a movie about American automobile designer Carroll Shelby and fearless British race car driver Ken Miles, who battle corporate interference, the laws of physics and their own personal demons to build a revolutionary vehicle for the Ford Motor Co. Together, they plan to compete against the race cars of Enzo Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in France in 1966.
The movie has a terrific cast and they don’t disappoint. Christian Bale, who plays the role of Ken Miles, as more often than not, completely disappears behind the curtains of his character. From his subtle weird expressions and a childish innocence to showcasing his love for cars and racing; he gives a beautiful performance. Matt Damon who plays Carroll Shelby is also equally good, who brings a unique flamboyance to his character. Jon Bernthal, Josh Lucas, Tracy Letts and the other actors are also fantastic. Speaking of Tracy Letts (who plays Henry Ford II), an especially memorable scene of his in the movie is when Carroll Shelby takes him for a ride to show him his new car, and after the ride, Henry Ford II gasping for breath bursts into tears, astonished by the car’s speed and power. Brute acting!
Unlike what the perception might be to people who haven’t watched the movie; what drives this movie is its strong, well-flushed characters and not so much the cars. The friendship between Carroll Shelby and Ken Miles, their bond and a shared passion for racing powers this movie from beginning to end. There is also a father-son dynamic in the movie between Miles and his son, which gives us some of the best scenes in the movie.
To say that James Mangold (the director) does a wonderful job, would be quite an understatement. It is a very well-paced movie. You never feel bored because there is always something happening; its very watchable. The race scenes, of which there are quite a few and especially the last race, are simply breathtaking. The shots are mostly wide, so there is no confusion and you can clearly see the cars in action. Whether or not you are a car fan, this movie will make you one.
It’s a brilliantly crafted movie and puts its emphasis on sheer entertainment.
SCORE: 8/10
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