Unstoppable Energy, Amazing Style and an Unforgettable Rivalry.

RUSH
(2013)

Directed by- Ron Howard

Written by- Peter Morgan

*Chris Hemsworth, Daniel Brühl, Alexandra Maria Lara, Olivia Wilde

Based on the true rivalry of F1 racers James Hunt and Niki Lauda, Rush lives up to its blazing title with an energetic first half and a strong second. Fueled by powerful performances and a rousing score the film sucks you right in the driver's cockpit on a thunderous sprint of two hours that zooms past in an overwhelming blur.

There are a lot of things Rush has going for it. While an F1 based film already promises unmatched sequences of adrenaline-powered frenzy, add to that a story driven by a rivalry reminiscent of Amadeus, and you get an assured burst of fiery entertainment.

But Hunt and Lauda are not your stereotypical nemeses, adamant on self-destruction just to see the other half perish. No, there is a maturity and a silent regard for the other amid all the quick-witted banter and retort. A regard that evolves into respect over the course of the film, even if it doesn't blossom into friendship.

Both the leads are perfectly cast, with Hemsworth as the gifted and playful Hunt to Brühl's serious and calculating Lauda. Their electric equation makes one half of the kicks of Rush. The other half being of course, the superior races rendered unforgettable thanks to Ron Howard's riveting approach.

The editing is flawless. Races are intercut with close ups of the engines' insides, with colorful bursts of fuel and the infinite thundering of pistons revving up the intensity.

Coupled with Anthony Dod Mantle's work which is, as always, almost therapeutic for the eyes. His cinematography not only sits well with the '70s mood but also makes use of a delightful palette that compliments the bright reds against the dark asphalt.

And it would be heinous not to mention Hans ZImmer's name for his unforgettable score which made the entire experience all the more exciting.
I will say, I was pleasantly surprised by his score. I loved the main '1976' and while 'Nürburgring' had a Dark Knight-ish feel to it, it was awesome, nonetheless.

Ron Howard directs a wonderful Formula 1 film which gets almost everything right. Of course, there are minor variations from reality but nothing unpardonable, not in the face of the touching use of real footage (and monologue!) at the end.

A powerful and deeply engrossing ride which finishes off on top without any mentionable glitches. Touching and thrilling in equal measure.


Rating- 4.2/5