Rush

Ron Howard’s Rush pushed its superhero lead, Chris Hemsworth heavily during promotion. But the film splits its screen time with Daniel Bruhl acting as a very intriguing foil to Hemsworth. Rush is the true story of the 1970s Formula One racing rivalry between James Hunt (Hemsworth) and Niki Lauda (Bruhl). Hunt was a playboy and risk taker, while Lauda was much more calculated and reclusive. It makes for a very intriguing dynamic acted out by two strong actors with great performances. The movie shows range for Hemsworth beyond his Thor cape and is an important establishing performance for Bruhl after his breakout in Inglourious Basterds.

Formula One racing and the inherent risk involved is definitely an exciting topic to cover in a film, but with Rush the character elements are just as engaging. Hunt has the traits Hollywood movies love to portray. He has a drinking problem, is promiscuous and more interested in success than following rules. But throughout the film, Lauda’s introverted personality and scientific understanding of racing is presented as equally admirable to Hunt’s dynamic likeability. Credit is due for writer Peter Morgan and director Ron Howard because this very easily could have been a rivalry that had audiences one-sided with their allegiance.

Beyond the characters, the story balances insider racing information well with enough race car terminology to make it authentic without overloading those not familiar with the sport. The pace covers a few racing seasons, which frames the story well. A number of career developments are brushed over like Hunt’s early success in Formula One, but only big fans would really want to watch too many car tune up scenes explaining why he does well. Lately Howard is best known for his work on The Da Vinci Code and subsequent sequels, but that should change with this return to form as a true Oscar contender.

Each film earns either zero, a half or a full arrow in five categories. The categories are Acting, Writing/Directing, Emotion, Innovation and Overall Impression. The arrows are added up to equal the full score.