Niki Lauda and John Hunt were apparently famous for their rivalry as Formula One drivers in the 1970s. I wasn’t aware of this, but that’s not really surprising given my lack of interest in sport. Two men with similar backgrounds but different motivations, both wanting to be World Champion. I don’t want to give away any spoilers for those, like me, who have no idea of the events that occurred in 1976, but it makes for a very exciting story.
Yet. A bit like the Senna documentary, the rivalry interested me, but not enough to be totally engaged. When it came down to the wire, I really didn’t care who won. Perhaps it was that I didn’t really like either character. They both had the arrogance that is possibly required to be elite in a sporting arena. James Hunt, depicted by Chris Helmsworth, is reckless, hotheaded and annoying. Niki Lauda played by Daniel Bruhl, is calculated, precise and humourless (mostly. Ah, but when Lauda finds his humour, this was my favourite part of the film).
It’s definitely worth watching, and I think if you like cars and racing and especially if you are familiar with the story, you will love this film. For me, just a few too many cars.
ireckonthat 