REVIEW: Christian Bale and Matt Damon Win the Race in Ford v Ferrari
Fast cars and a great storyline make up 20th Century Fox’s new movie, Ford v Ferrari. Based on the true story of car designer, Carroll Shelby (Matt Damon) and driver, Ken Miles (Christian Bale) as they set out to create a new racing car for the Ford Motor Company. The goal is to defeat Ferrari’s unbeatable designs in the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans car race in France. Only one American had previously come in first in the prestigious race: Carroll Shelby. Shelby and his team, including Miles, come together to create the ultimate car, as with any good film, the groups run into a number of obstacles along the way. Creative differences between Ford Motors’ Public Relations guru, Leo Beebe (Josh Lucas) and Shelby’s vision combined with the overall flawed designs of the Ford motor vehicle make for one compelling film.
Filled with fun car races and great dialogue, this film is for everyone. Director James Mangold utilizes the cast and the script given to him to their fullest. Shelby and Miles journey from start to end truly captures the difficulties Ford was facing during the 1960s, with a declining motor industry and increasing competition. The challenge of two complete opposites, like Shelby and Miles, coming together to create something as powerful as the Shelby Mustang is a struggle many are familiar with.
Bale and Damon as Miles and Shelby are phenomenal. Shelby and Miles were long time friends and Bale and Damon do a fantastic job showcasing that on screen. Their scenes have a sense of ease and excitement that drives the story into high gear. Lucas is also a nice addition as Beebe. His ability to showcase Beebe’s knack for marketing and selling a crowd while also his character’s true selfish goals is absolutely amazing. It may be Bale and Damon’s film, but Lucas comes close in commandeering the film.
The lone drawback is its a tad too long. There is a portion of the story that could have been left out entirely and not impact the actual storyline. It does add to the emotional side of the story but does nothing for the story overall. Other than that, everything from the cinematography to the choices made by director make you feel like you are in the driver’s seat right alongside the actors.
Ford v Ferrari on paper doesn’t sound like it would be a film for everyone, but it is. It’s action packed, filled with laughs, and a great story. No matter the age, everyone will find something exciting about this racing film.
Grade: A