With the success of “Ford v Ferrari”, enthusiasts are being treated to some killer automotive movies recently. 2024 seems to continue the trend with no end in sight. Michael Mann’s latest creation “Ferrari,” unfolds a visual and emotional journey through the world of speed, power, and unbridled passion for motorsports. As the theater lights dim and the engines roar, the film invites us into the compelling narrative of one of the most iconic names in automotive history, Enzo Ferrari.

Known for his masterful storytelling and visually arresting cinematography in films like “Heat” and “Collateral,” director Michael Mann tells the story of Ferrari on the brink of bankruptcy in 1950s and their ultimate success in the Mille Miglia that transformed the company. In “Ferrari,” he applies his signature style to the world of motorsports, bringing a unique blend of intensity and sophistication. “Ferrari” doesn’t merely recount the tale of a legendary car manufacturer; it weaves a narrative tapestry around the enigmatic figure behind the prancing horse emblem, Enzo Ferrari. Mann dives into the complexities of Ferrari’s life, exploring the triumphs, controversies, and the relentless pursuit of automotive excellence. The plot unravels not only as a biopic but as a high-speed drama, capturing the essence of a man whose legacy echoes through the ages.

Led by an ensemble cast, the performances in “Ferrari” are nothing short of captivating. The portrayal of Enzo Ferrari by Adam Driver brings depth to the character, unraveling the layers of a man driven by both passion and pragmatism. The supporting cast, including Penelope Cruz and Shailene Woodley help highlight his struggles with Enzo’s home life adding further nuance to the narrative, sturing emotions that resonate with audiences. There are plenty of cameos as well including Grey’s Anatomy heartthrob and Porsche racing driver Patrick Dempsey bringing some racing energy to the film. My favorite cameo however was Ben Collins as Sterling Moss. If you claim to not know who Ben Collins is, you’d be a liar as you most definitely know his alter-ego as The Stig from Top Gear. An amazing driver and has been in numerous driver friendly films most notable as the stunt driver for the Daniel Craig era James Bond films. If Ben is in the film, it’s probably going to be interesting at the very least. 

The film itself was entertaining, but rather slow to start. There isn’t a moment when you realize what the plot actually is, it sort of slowly drips over the length of the movie. I am normally not into this style of plot, but I made an exception as anything car related deserves my attention. As a general film, it wasn’t my favorite, but definitely worth a watch. It has all of the staples of a great film, a prolific director, emotional actors, and a story worth telling. Although the parts didn’t sync together entirely perfectly, the film was better than the normal “car” films enthusiasts are treated to with numerous inaccuracies and a lack of physics. I think many viewers will enjoy it and some may not, either way, it deserves a watch from true car fans. One warning, I wasn’t expecting was a few of the crash scenes were intensely graphic. Nothing that you wouldn’t have seen in other films, but the way they are portrayed, the scenes are graphic. No doubt they drive the seriousness of the impact they had, but as someone that wasn’t fully expecting what I saw, I was a little caught off guard by the brutality of the accidents. It certainly made me thankful for things we often overlook like seatbelts and airbags.

What really held this film together for me was the excessive, and I mean this complimentary, the excessive use of cars in the film. It would be a no-brainer to think there would be cars in a movie about Enzo Ferrari, but the level was gratuitous and it’s all we can ask for as an enthusiast. Many scenes were car focused even when the cars didn’t aid in the scene, and I am all for it. I’m sure that very few if any of the cars were real period built Ferraris, but even if they are all kit-cars built for the film, the right details were there. Mainly the sound of these red beasts, the engines were unmuffled and raspy as they would have been in the era. My personal favorite was the Ferrari 335S featured in the 1957 Mille Miglia, with its raw spartan design maximizing speed over comfort and saftey. Being captivated by these machines would be an understatement, as these on-screen Ferraris made me wish I could get one. Perhaps one day, I’ll have a Late Brake yellow one in my garage. Until then, I’ll have to settle for rewatching the film and daydreaming as usual. 

As the credits roll and the echoes of engines fade, you feel like you knew the man Ferrari and what drove him. It’s not just a film about cars; it’s an exploration of Enzo’s spirit, ambition, and the pursuit of greatness, at whatever costs. Its cinematic journey into the heart of Enzo Ferrari’s world is a thrilling ride that captivates both automotive enthusiasts and cinephiles. I am optimistic about the future of cars in film as more and more enthusiast-based content is getting produced every day. I think people will look back at this time as the golden age of car movies. Let’s bask in the sea of content we have while we have it, before its too late.