11 Documentaries That Will Change The Way You Look at Your Car
Everyone has a need for speed somewhere in them. Many get their fix by sitting back and watching a good action film or real-life documentary. Although each documentary is different - some focusing more on the car and others on the driver - they all seem to strike an emotional response from viewers as people can relate to a vehicle they have owned or aspire to own.
The Speed Merchants
This film, directed by Michael Keyser, tells the legendary tale of the 1972 World Sportscar Championship. The documentary is told by Mario Andretti and Vic Elford; it features the pair driving their race cars, the Ferrari 312P and Alfa Romeo, respectively. Not only are there race scenes and track footage, but the film also takes the viewer behind the scenes with other drivers, including Jacky Ickx, Helmut Marko, and Brian Redman. It is a classic not to be missed.
Easier Said Than Done
This documentary, released in 2013, focuses on rallying with driver Chris Duplessis and his quest to succeed in reaching the World Rally Championship. At the time, Duplessis was a three-time U.S. Champion of this ultimate motorsport. Produced by Specialty Field Productions and directed by Matt Johnston, it also features top international drivers and mechanics who dedicate their lives to this dirty and difficult sport.
Dust To Glory
Directed by Dana Brown in 2005, Dust to Glory takes viewers off-road in an action-packed film. Featuring the most dangerous race in the world, the Tecate SCORE Baja 1000, it shows just how grueling the route is across Baja’s desert peninsula. The crew consisted of more than eighty people using fifty-five cameras, four helicopters, and a four-passenger buggy camera car to complete the filming of the spectacular scenes depicting the infamous race.
Urban Outlaw
Released in 2012, this film was directed by Tamir Moscovici and is based on the life and work of Magnus Walker. Walker took his passion for Porsche customizing from a hobby to a business, and his dedication is demonstrated by the number of hours he spends on his obsession. His unique vehicles are crafted in his workshop in downtown Los Angeles where he pieces together parts from donor cars with vintage frames and puts his style into each masterpiece.
NASCAR: The Ride Of Their Lives
Directed by Rory Karpf, this film came out in 2008 with the story of a race series ingrained in the lives of American fans. It delves into the history of the sport and brings viewers on an emotional journey through the triumphs and challenges of each driver. Actor Kevin Costner narrates this made-for-television movie with details all spectators of the sport can appreciate and includes archive footage from Davey Allison, Dale and Ralph Earnhardt, and Ricky Hendrick.
Truth In 24
Directed by Keith Cossrow and Bennett Viseltear, this film came out in 2008 to feature the world’s premier endurance race, the 24 Hours of Le Mans. It follows the dominant players of the event - the Audi Sport racing teams. Up against the favorite local team, Team Peugeot, Audi attempts to win a record fifth consecutive race at the seventy-six-year-old event. It is personalized with features on drivers Tom Kristensen, Allan McNish, and Dindo Capello.
The Red Bull Racing Story
Released in 2012, this short film directed by Infiniti Red Bull Racing is a good one to sit back and enjoy with a jolt-producing energy drink. In just more than thirty minutes, it races through the highlights of Formula 1 from 2005 to 2012 including interviews with Christian Horner, Adrian Newey, Sebastian Vettel, and Mark Webber who discuss how the team rose to claim three Formula One Constructors’ World Championships.
Dale
Fans of Dale Earnhardt should make this one a must-see. Directed by Rory Karpf and Mike Viney, it was released in 2007, just six years after the death of the legendary race car driver. The film takes a look at his life and his passion for NASCAR. It was narrated by the late Paul Newman who succinctly said of Earnhardt, “He was NASCAR.” This film is a tribute to the face behind the races and captures his many successful victories.
Love The Beast
This documentary chronicles the life of a man who feels more for his first car than most people. Eric Bana is known for his parts in Troy, Lone Survivor, and Black Hawk Down, but this one is all about his personal life and his years spent driving his 1974 Ford XB Falcon. Other notables joining Bana behind the camera include Jay Leno, Jeremy Clarkson, and Doctor Phil.
Senna
Considered one of the greatest documentaries of the past decade, Senna chronicles the life of Brazilian man, Ayrton Senna. Directed by Asif Kapadia, this 2010 release follows the Formula 1 driver’s rise to fame. He conquered the Formula 1 world championship three times before his early death at the age of thirty-four. Not only is the footage thrilling to watch, but the storyline is also engaging and one that will stir your emotions.
Black Air: The Grand National Documentary
This feature-length film stars Tony Assenza, Paul Castle, and Richard Clark in a story that is and is not about the iconic Buick. Directed by Andrew Filippone Jr - who was never a big fan of cars - this film is sure to appeal to everyone. The Grand National is merely a representation of something beyond reality leading to a mysterious timeline and engaging plot.