Don’t ever compare “Rush” to the “Fast & Furious” series. Doing so would be a grave mistake on your part. This is not a film about stylish muscle cars decorated with colorful accessories or over-the-top action sequences but rather a glorious cinematic achievement that evokes the real need for speed. Literally, no film released so far this year has been more capable of spiking my adrenaline without resorting to mindless action the way this one has. From the moment you hear those engines firing up and see those cars speeding down the track, you just know you’re in for one heck of a ride.
The film is based on the rivalry between Formula One race car drivers Nicki Lauda (Daniel Brühl) and James Hunt (Chris Hemsworth) during the 1970s, “Rush” chronicles how they met during their days in the Formula Three circuit, their respective rises to fame and fortune and the fabled 1976 Grand Prix where Lauda was injured in a devastating crash. When we first meet them, we learn that Lauda is calm, calculating and relies on technical expertise while Hunt is an impulsive playboy whose lack of fear motivates his reckless driving.
Both men come from privileged families but forsook their inheritance in favor of racing. Amidst fierce competition, however, they develop a powerful bond unlike anything people could have imagined.
When I first heard about this film, I assumed it was something akin to another Disney sports biopic. There would be lots of bright colors and a family friendly tone meant to draw in a larger audience. It wasn’t until I saw the trailer that I realized the true potential such a film could hold.
Director Ron Howard’s last few dramatic forays have ranked among his best work, utilizing Spielberg-esque technical prowess and the narrative drive of Martin Scorsese; and “Rush” is certainly no exception. Years of filmmaking experience finally culminate into a bombastic and emotionally resonant thriller that rarely ceases to captivate, proving just how immensely entertaining Howard is when he gets things right.
Anthony Dod Mantle’s breathtaking cinematography makes you a frightful passenger dragged along at high speeds where accidents could happen at any moment, which means you will feel the full brunt of everything that happens.
But of course, no film is complete without actors who bring it to life. Many of you already know Hemsworth from his portrayal of Thor but he brings so much more to Hunt. His first dramatic role is quite impressive in how it captures the essence of masculinity and represents the average male’s desire to go fast and pick up women, with a healthy dose of vulnerability. Brühl is equally compelling as Lauda providing a welcome sense of romanticism that stands out as the film’s best performance and elevates things during the occasional narrative lapse. There is a distinct and utterly effective chemistry between these two actors that becomes apparent as the plot consistently switches between each character’s perspectives. “Rush” is mostly directed towards a male audience but there are still some notable performances from Olivia Wilde as Suzy Miller and Alexandra Maria Lara as Marlene Knaus in supporting performances.
For all it’s worth, this is easily the best racing movie I’ve ever seen. Not only does it evokes the feel of classic cinema but injects it with the kinetic energy of a summer blockbuster. The result is a thriller forged with pure artistry that is unrestrained by Hollywood’s marketing tactics and allowed to freely express itself. I honestly don’t think I’ve ever felt more alive watching any other movie this year. Rest assured casual moviegoers, you will get your daily prescription of sex appeal and high-paced action.
