Movie Review: Ferrari

 

Michael's Movie grade: B+

An excellent biopic. 

Despite being a film about car racing, this is not a fast-paced story, nor is this a feel-good sports movie. This is instead a dark and complex portrait of a man that often comes off as anything but likable. This may be unpleasant at times, but the film never asks to sympathize with him or like everything we see. Instead, it simply presents this complex character with all his demons being all to visible. As we watch more of this movie, we begin to understand more (that not all) of what makes him the way he is. None of this is presented in a way that tries to excuse his very dark side, but rather in a way that gives us a clearer picture of the man. We also begin to understand as the film goes on, how his mission to build the perfect car, has made it so the people in his life have become almost afterthoughts to him. Even Adam Driver's (who is completely unrecognizable in the role) performance doesn't ask for audience sympathy. It is an excellent performance that works perfectly for the film. It is also one that is purposely cold. However, the real stand out performance here is Penelope Cruz as his wife. Despite being a major star, there is no glamour to her character or performance. Instead, she is deeply real and human here and her performance provides the real heart of the film. This film's story and exploration of these characters is simply fantastic. While it can make you uncomfortable, it is hard to look away and many of the most uncomfortable moments are the most gripping. Becuase of this, there are scenes here that will stay with you long after the credits roll. 

Though racing is not the focus here, the racing scenes are incredibly well made. The filming and the editing simply much these scenes a pure visual treat, that will even grip people who hate sports (like me). Director Anothony Mann's instance on practical effects over CGI also help make these scenes very visually gripping. 

I have one major problem with this film though. That is that the main character's mistress and son are incredibly underdeveloped. Because of this they can feel more like plot points than actual characters. Considering how much of this film centers on them, it can become a major flaw in an otherwise great movie. 

Though this may be an uncomfortable watch, it is also a very rewarding one.