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Writer's pictureAlex Kelaru

Film Review: Ferrari (2023)

Kelaru & Fulton rating: ★★★½

Available in cinemas | Runtime: 2hrs 10mins


 

Michael Mann's Ferrari much like his famed work in Heat is a cinematic tour de

force, marrying his directorial prowess with a vivid portrayal of Enzo Ferrari's life in 1957. Mann's filmmaking shines, utilising timely shaky camera techniques and a cinematography reminiscent of Renaissance paintings, likely an intentional nod to the film's artistic ambition.




Ferrari delves into the contradictions of Enzo Ferrari, a man who mastered the engineering of racing machines yet grappled with tumultuous personal relationships. This dichotomy extends to his company, originally dedicated to race cars but forced to adapt to manufacturing brightly coloured sports cars for survival.


Adam Driver and Penelope Cruz deliver exceptional performances, with Cruz embodying the role of Laura Ferrari, a supportive yet complex figure intertwined with Enzo’s professional and emotional worlds. The film's climax, The Mille Miglia race, is a gripping portrayal of this gruelling 1000-mile challenge, masterfully capturing the essence of risk and adrenaline inherent in such a high-speed endeavour. However, the film is not without its shortcomings. The character of Lina Lardi, played by Shaileen Woodley, representing Enzo's 'other wife', feels underdeveloped. This subplot had the potential to add more depth to the narrative, perhaps through a significant interaction with Laura Ferrari, but it unfortunately falls short, coming across as a missed opportunity in an otherwise compelling narrative.


In conclusion, Ferrari is a poignant exploration of a complex individual and his legacy. While it excels in its portrayal of Enzo’s professional life and his internal contradictions, it slightly falters in fully realising the narrative potential of its supporting characters. Nonetheless, the film stands as a testament to Mann's directorial finesse and the cast's powerful performances.



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