Director’s Pick: Ford v. Ferrari

A SOLID RACING LINE

In 1966, after teaming up with Shelby American (with the help of Kar Kraft and John Wyer Automotive Engineering) for the development of a supercar, Ford made history by winning the coveted 24 Hours of Le Mans. It was the first time an American motor company won the “Grand Prix of Endurance and Efficiency.” Not only that, Ford won by beating world renowned racing dynasty Ferrari… with a Ford.

Leading the Ford racing team was the Shelby American team, headed by Carroll Shelby with drivers Ken Miles and Denny Hulme. Shelby American team would go on to break track records as they made history in Le Mans; though the end of the race was anything but sweet.

Ford v. Ferrari, directed by James Mangold, brilliantly brings this story to life in a riveting feature that will strap you in for an emotional ride through the twists and turns of the journey that led to this historic event. Mangold creatively weaves the development of the Ford GT40 - the car that Ford and Shelby created - and the personal relationship between former racer-turned sports car manufacturer, Carroll Shelby, and the famous SCCA racing legend, Ken Miles. With an all-star cast (led Matt Damon & Christian Bale), great driving sequences, and subtle-yet-captivating cinematography, Mangold finds a way to enthrall his audience; making even non-racing enthusiasts fans for day.

Damon and Bale charm the audience with their captivating performance. Bale brilliantly portrays Miles as a hard working, loving father and husband, snarky automobile mechanic, charismatic racer that is sure to make viewers connect with him on an emotional level. Damon drives the story with his super-charged depiction of Carroll Shelby as a layered visionary, confident businessman, and loving friend. Together the duo portray a powerful friendship that will be sure to rev the emotional engine of everyone who watches this film.

With a stunning performance from everyone in the cast, majestic shots of the iconic cars, and a wonderful blend of humor, drama, and action, James Mangold pushes 7000 proverbial RPMs giving his audience a memorable ride and keeping everyone invested in this fascinating story till the very end. All of this and more are why Ford v. Ferrari crosses the finish line as a top Director's Pick for 2019.