Upon watching Ferrari, one cannot help but notice the talented cast and their impressive performances. Adam Driver, in the lead role as Enzo Ferrari, delivers a thoughtful and compelling portrayal of the flawed genius known as Il Commendatore. Penelope Cruz shines as the grieving and embittered wife, Laura, while Gabriel Leone captivates with his stellar performance as the talented hotshot, Alfonso de Portago. It is worth noting that despite a few slips in the Italian accents, the actors manage to convey their characters’ emotions effectively. However, understanding the dialogue can be challenging at times, particularly in the beginning. But as the film progresses, this becomes less of an issue.
Ferrari revolves around the significant events of the 1957 Mille Miglia, which holds crucial importance for Ferrari as an automotive manufacturer. The film also delves into Enzo Ferrari’s failing relationship with his wife and the secret of his mistress, Lina Lardi, with whom he has a son. While some may anticipate non-stop racing action, it is disappointing to learn that a significant portion of the racing scenes is already revealed in the trailer. However, the film compensates for this by intensifying the sound whenever the cars are on track, evoking a spine-tingling experience in the cinema.
Unfortunately, Ferrari falls victim to a frustrating trope of overusing the technique of changing gears or pressing the throttle harder to make overtakes. Additionally, the positioning of cars during the race is haphazard and confusing, making it nearly impossible to follow the action. The stunning shots of the iconic cars driving through mountains serve as a visual treat, but they cannot make up for these shortcomings.
One of the most glaring issues in Ferrari lies in the appalling CGI used to depict the two major crashes that drive the narrative. The first crash feels less impactful and more comical, as the CGI fails to replicate the severity of the moment. Similarly, the emotional weight of the second crash, which results in the deaths of nine spectators, including five children, is lost due to subpar CGI. However, the practical effects in the aftermath of the crashes are truly horrifying, providing some redemption for the film.
Apart from the racing aspects, Ferrari suffers from poor pacing and narrative inconsistencies. Unexpected and jarring sex scenes disrupt the flow of the story, appearing out of nowhere without proper context or relevance. The film concludes with an ending that lacks resolution, leaving the audience perplexed and unsatisfied. Furthermore, there are several instances where the pace slows down to a crawl, with extended shots that offer little narrative value. While the conversations between the lead characters are well-acted, they often fail to advance the plot efficiently, resulting in unnecessary length.
Engaging Insight into Motorsport’s History
Despite its flaws, Ferrari offers a captivating look into one of the most brutal periods in motor racing history. However, it is important to note that the film could have benefited from better pacing and a more balanced ratio of racing to non-racing scenes. Whether one will enjoy Ferrari depends on personal taste. If one seeks a Rush-like experience, Ferrari may scratch that itch, albeit in a less fulfilling manner. On the other hand, those interested in gaining insight into Ferrari the man, rather than just the manufacturer, will find the film intriguing, providing a glimpse behind the curtain.
Ferrari has its strengths in the form of exceptional performances and a unique perspective on racing history. However, it falters with inconsistent pacing, underwhelming CGI, and an unsatisfying conclusion. As a viewer, one must decide whether the film’s merits outweigh its shortcomings, considering personal preferences. Whether Ferrari is worth your time is a subjective determination, but it undeniably offers an engaging and imperfect glimpse into the world of Enzo Ferrari and the challenges he faced as a racing legend.
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