Rush
Starring: Daniel Brühl, Chris Hemsworth, Olivia Wilde
Director:Ron Howard
Ron Howard brings to screen the classic Formula 1 rivalry between Niki Lauda and James Hunt.
In what is quite possibly the best casting ever for a biopic Chris Hemsworth (Thor) stars as James Hunt the hard living extroverted race car driver and nemesis to Daniel Bruhl’s (Inglorious Basterds) calculated and methodical Niki Lauda.
Both Hemsworth and Lauda embody the famous duo; this isn’t an impersonation ala Jaimee Foxx in Ray, the true essence of each driver is on display. Proving correctly the age p;d adage that iron sharpens iron, these polar opposites use each other’s strengths as motivation to become the best in the world.
Howard is keen to point out the danger involved in F1 racing utilizing a Hemsworth voiceover to let you know that 20% of all F1 drivers get killed each year. He combines actual race footage with stunning cinematography by Anthony Dod Mantle rich in 1970’s authenticity to completely engross the audience.
The Rivalry between Lauda and Hunt is compelling for many reasons not just because both come from a similar background, educated and raised to go into a more traditional profession yet both drawn to the most dangerous racing sport in the world. While the back and forth and constantly trying to best each other is good drama (Watching Hunt make rat faced jokes at Lauda’s expense never gets old). It’s Lauda’s tragic accident and subsequent return to racing that is truly moving. Lauda is completely detestable displaying a complete lack of passion for racing, yet when pushed to his limits suffering burns from an 800 degree fire, its Hunts success in his absence that powers him. This is a turning point where you become unsure of whom to root for Hunt or Lauda, This is a powerful dynamic. It’s a rare film that can turn a heel into a hero while still keeping the hero the hero.
Rush is both powerful, and moving. This is easily Howard’s finest work.
Grade – 95
