Ferrari review: A Race for Immortality
The Enigmatic Blend of Racing and Drama in Michael Mann's "Ferrari"
I recently watched Michael Mann's latest film, "Ferrari," available on Amazon Prime. Situated in the post WW2 Italian landscape, the film has generated quite a buzz thanks to a recent resurgence of Michael Mann's prominence—a testament to his iconic style, which was recently highlighted by a viral tweet featuring Mann's 2006 film "Miami Vice."
Let's dive into the intricacies of "Ferrari."
A Tidbit About Michael Mann's Style
Michael Mann is renowned for his meticulous approach to filmmaking during the 80s and 90s. Then in the 00s, he adopted small consumer grade digital cameras, and seamlessly blending traditional cinematic techniques with the raw aesthetics of digital cameras. Films like "Collateral," "Miami Vice," "Public Enemies," and "Blackhat" have showcased this evolution in his style, characterized by kinetic camera movements yet still able to exquisitely compose shots like his heyday of the old school cinema cameras.
There’s a few scenes where the constantly moving camera is suddenly within inches of the actors faces, in their most vulnerable moments. It almost makes you uncomfortable as they’re opening themselves up to you as the viewer. It’s a shot that Mann has utilized throughout his career, taking full advantage of each corner of the frame.
"Ferrari" marks a significant moment as it sees Mann return to using big cinematic cameras. Yet, intriguingly, he retains elements of his more recent digital aesthetics, creating a harmonious blend that is both nostalgic and refreshingly new. It makes me excited where he’s going next.
Not Your Typical Racing Movie
If you're anticipating a high-octane, "Days of Thunder"-esque racing film, you might need to realign your expectations. "Ferrari" is less about the thrill of the race and more about the intricate, often tumultuous dynamics within the Ferrari company. The narrative centers around Enzo Ferrari and his wife, Laura, portrayed by Adam Driver and Penelope Cruz.
Their performances are arguably the best of their careers. Surprisingly, these standout performances haven't received the widespread acclaim they deserve from critics and award bodies alike. Two actors in the hands of Mann has produced probably the year’s best, but sadly was overlooked.
A Deep Dive into Character and Legacy
Set against the backdrop of Post World War II-era Italy, "Ferrari" paints a complex portrait of Enzo Ferrari—a man caught in the web of his professional ambitions and personal tragedies. The film captures the essence of a couple, still grappling with the grief of losing their son. The narrative thickens as Enzo is revealed to have fathered another child with a different woman, adding layers of tension and moral dilemma.
Ferrari's struggle is twofold: maintaining his company amidst adversity and navigating the intricate web of personal relationships torn apart by unresolved grief and secrets. The film explores how iconic figures, much like Enzo Ferrari, often sacrifice personal relationships to preserve their legacies—an all too familiar narrative seen in historical icons like Howard Hughes.
The Cinematic Experience
Mann's directorial finesse is evident throughout "Ferrari." The film juxtaposes meticulously designed shots with kinetic camera movements, creating a visually arresting experience. Italy itself becomes an additional character in the film, with its post-war cultural climate adding depth to the storyline.
The film does end on an abrupt note, leaving a sense of unfinished business—the kind of ending that fuels speculation about missing scenes lying on the cutting room floor. One can only hope for a director's cut in the future to capture the complete vision Mann likely intended.
Conclusion
"Ferrari" may not be everyone's cup of tea, especially those expecting a traditional racing film. However, it's a richly layered character study that deserves appreciation for its narrative depth and the stellar performances it boasts. Mann's unique blend of old and new cinematic styles offers a fresh take on historical drama, and I believe in a few years, "Ferrari" will be hailed as a under appreciated favourite alongside Mann's other works.
For now, "Ferrari" stands as a testament to Michael Mann's ability to evolve his filmmaking style while staying true to the core of his artistic vision. It's more than just a film about racing—it's a dynamic exploration of character, legacy, and the price of ambition.