Movie Review: "Rush" (2013)

Movie: "Rush"
Director: Ron Howard
Rating: R
Running Time: 2 hours, 3 minutes

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Formula One racing drivers Niki Lauda (Daniel Bruhl) and James Hunt (Chris Hemsworth) have a fierce rivalry, one that has gone on for many races across many years. Hunt is a wild, risk-taking party guy, the kind of person everyone likes. Lauda keeps to himself, is reserved, and is a stand-offish jerk. They are always trying to one-up each other on the track. During a rainy race at the dangerous Italian Grand Prix track in 1976, Lauda is severely burned across his face and body, and yet 6 weeks later, dons his racing helmet once more to finish his rivalry with Hunt once and for all.

Ron Howard is the man.

Chris Hemsworth is a god amongst men.

This is an extremely accurate portrayal of the true story of Lauda and Hunt. Daniel Bruhl's performance was exceptional, as always. Chris Hemsworth is just so damn attractive...I mean, he does a fine job as well. Ron Howard did an amazing job keeping the shots in this film realistic, and the movie as a whole was not over-sensationalized or over-dramatized, as is typical Hollywood fashion. Lauda's famous crash was even shot on-location and Howard matched it perfectly shot-for-shot based on the stock footage of the crash, which is later rolled in the background as Hunt turns to watch it on TV.

It's a passionate film all around, from the actors to their real-life counterparts, from the director to the screenwriters...you can tell they didn't want to mess this up or alter the true story. They took time and care to make this as accurate as possible. It is an interesting and compelling story of two men who take very different approaches to life and their work. It's a rivalry between two men that seems to overflow with animosity, but also two men who eventually have huge respect for one another.

Overall, masterfully crafted and beautifully shot. Another fantastic work for Ron Howard, and a definite watch, even for non-race fans!

My Rating: 8/10
BigJ's Rating: 8/10
IMDB's Rating: 8.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 88%
Do we recommend this movie: Yes!