Rush-2013

Director Ron Howard

Starring Chris Hemsworth, Daniel Brühl

Scott’s Review #162

Reviewed August 31, 2014 

Grade: B+

Rush (2013), a film directed by Ron Howard, delves into the world of auto racing through the true story of the 1970s rivalry between racing superstars James Hunt and Niki Lauda.

The film mainly focuses on 1970-1976 and the races and championships between the two, with some of their life trials and tribulations thrown in.

From bitter enemies, they slowly build respect and friendship over the years.

Chris Hemsworth and Daniel Brühl give excellent performances as Hunt and Lauda, respectively.

Ron Howard, a very mainstream, Hollywood-style director, carves out a nice film that isn’t edgy or particularly risk-taking. Still, it’s a solid biopic that works and keeps the viewer interested.

The film isn’t gritty and has a definite safe feel, but that is unsurprising since Ron Howard directed it and that’s characteristic of his films.

Reportedly, the feud between Hunt and Lauda is slightly embellished from the low-key real-life feud, and some events are created for effect.

Hunt never beats up a reporter in Lauda’s defense.

The racing sequences are compelling and don’t feel overdone or detract from the film’s human side. I loved seeing the real-life Hunt and Lauda at the end of the film, as is quite common these days when telling a true-life story.

Brühl, an unknown to me, received a deserving Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

Rush (2013) isn’t a movie to go down in history, nor will it leave you thinking about it or asking questions days after you watch it, but it is a slick, competent, entertaining story with impressive performances from the two leads.