Review by David Baldwin for Mr. Will Wong
Sales of Ford cars are slumping in the early 1960s. They need to reinvigorate the brand, fast. Inspired by the work Ferrari is doing, the company plan to build a car that can compete with the best of the best at the “24 Hours of Le Mans” endurance race. But it will not be easy.
The 152-minute running time of Ford v Ferrari is daunting, but it proves to be one of the most rewarding and entertaining films at this year’s Festival. Director James Mangold uses the time to his advantage, crafting a film that never stops moving and never strays into anything unimportant. Each element used here is effective, allowing Mangold to straddle the line between drama and white-knuckle Thriller masterfully. He knows just when to change gears and wisely spends a generous portion of the Last Act at the Le Mans race. Also, by emphasizing the sounds of the car and amping-up Marco Beltrami’s epic Score, Mangold makes the Film substantially more engrossing at each turn. And with a stacked Cast featuring Matt Damon, Christian Bale, Jon Bernthal, Outlander’s Catriona Balfe and the great Tracy Letts, you just know you are in good hands. You just might be a little sweaty after watching it.
FORD v FERRARI screens during TIFF at the following times:
Monday September 9, 5:30pm @ Roy Thomson Hall
Monday September 9, 8:00pm @ Elgin Theatre
Tuesday September 10, 10:30am @ Princess of Wales
Friday September 13, 9:30pm @ Princess of Wales
Saturday September 14, 4:30pm @ Ryerson Theatre
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