‘Rallying’s wildest cars star in compelling new film’
Ford v Ferrari, Lamborghini: The Man Behind the Legend, Ferrari, and now Race for Glory: Audi vs Lancia, did the world need another car movie? Race for Glory: Audi vs Lancia is the latest addition to the genre, but it’s more than just a film about cars. It’s a brand movie that joins the ranks of other cinematic ventures like The Lego Movie and Barbie. This French-Italian film takes viewers to the thrilling era of rallying and tells the story of the short-lived and ill-fated Group B cars that dominated the world rallying stage.
Starring Daniel Brühl as Roland Gumpert and Riccardo Scamarcio as Cesare Fiorio, the film delves into the intense rivalry between Audi and Lancia during the 1983 Rally World Championship. These two team managers, played brilliantly by Brühl and Scamarcio, showcase the passion and drive of their respective brands. The film portrays the fierce competition and the lengths these teams went to for victory.
The Group B cars, known for their speed, lightweight, and power, were a result of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile’s (FIA) new rules. With fewer restrictions and a lower production requirement of only 200 cars to homologate, Group B cars revolutionized rallying. The film vividly depicts the cunning tactics employed by Lancia to deceive FIA monitors by not producing the necessary number of road-going versions of their 037 rally weapon.
The battle between Audi and Lancia is brought to life by the performances of Volker Bruch as world champion Walter Röhrl and Gianmaria Martini as Hannu Mikkola. The actors capture the intensity and skill of these legendary drivers. The film also features appearances by notable real-life rally drivers such as Markku Alén and Ari Vatanen, who add authenticity to the driving scenes.
Race for Glory: Audi vs Lancia beautifully captures the essence of the era with its attention to detail. The cars are meticulously recreated, the locations are authentic, and even the sounds of the engines evoke nostalgia. The film transports viewers back in time, immersing them in the world of rallying with its vibrant colors, iconic Martini Racing livery, and ’80s fashion trends.
While the film does simplify certain aspects for dramatic effect, it successfully celebrates the spirit of rallying. It showcases the courage of the drivers and the dedication of the teams, despite the dangers they faced on the treacherous stages. The splicing of period footage adds an extra layer of realism and showcases the enthusiastic and often reckless behavior of the spectators.
Race for Glory: Audi vs Lancia does have its shortcomings. Notably, some significant figures from that era, such as Michèle Mouton and Stig Blomqvist, receive minimal coverage. However, the film does justice to the overall narrative and presents an engaging and thrilling story for both motorsports enthusiasts and general audiences.
For those who experienced the golden age of rallying or have a passion for iconic cars, Race for Glory: Audi vs Lancia is a must-watch. It successfully brings to life an era that captivated fans around the world. The film is a testament to the enduring allure of rallying and the impact that Group B cars had on the sport. Whether you’re a petrolhead or simply appreciate a well-crafted film, Race for Glory: Audi vs Lancia is worth the watch.
Race for Glory: Audi vs Lancia is available to rent or buy on Apple TV.
