Rush (2013)

The following is a review for Rush (2013).

Rush tells the true story of merciless competition between Formula One drivers, James Hunt and Niki Lauda, in the 1970s. This sporting rivalry highlights the differences between Hunt (Hemsworth), an English playboy, and Lauda (Bruhl), an Austrian driver who becomes Hunt's biggest competition.

The story follows their distinctly different styles on and off the track, their relationships, and the astonishing 1976 season where both drivers were willing to risk everything in order to become the sports' world champion.

Rush explodes right out of the gate with exciting race sequences and interesting character conflicts. Hunt and Lauda are rivals, but there is a great deal of respect between them.


A ton of credit goes to Hemsworth and Bruhl (who both gives terrific performances) for pulling off this interesting dynamic. Since we see the film from both of their perspectives, we end up rooting for both throughout the film.

Ron Howard also does a great job with the direction in his best film since Cinderella Man, 8 years ago. We really get a feel of what it was like during this sleek, glamorious, golden age of Formula One racing.

While the film hasn't performed well with US audiences, only grossing 23 million in its first three weekends, I understand why. Most people in the U.S. aren't as familiar with this type of racing and racing in general isn't a popular sport.

However, the fact is that you don't even have to like racing to enjoy this movie. It's just a good old fashioned rivalry between two athletes and competitors. Plain and simple. It's a great story that could relate to any other sport.

Rush is a great biopic about two competitors who would risk everything and do anything to win. It's exciting, suspenseful, moving, and always entertaining. Rush is one of the best films of the year and is a must see for all audiences.

(8/10)