Grand Prix - DVD

[Dave3putt]

Well, off to the races, this time in 2.20:1 widescreen and remastered DD 5.1 sound. Just released on DVD this month, this 1966 John Frankenheimer film is perhaps the most realistic racing film ever made. It was filmed on locations around the world before, during, and after some of the actual F1 races.

I saw it in Cinerama in a theater when it first came out. About a 120 degree field of view. With the split screen editing, you actually had to choose which part of the film to watch at any one time.

The DVD is a two disc set, with the film on both and the extras (which are great) on the second disc. The colors and clarity are all there. The aerial and on board camera shots, the incredible engine sounds, and the editing bring the glory days of F1 right into your lap. Three race circuits are mainly featured: Monaco, Spa, and Monza. The overhead shots of Monte Carlo are delightful, and the old, long course at Spa really shows what it used to be like to have to drive in the rain with poles, trees, buildings, livestock, and people right next to the road. The race at Monza uses the high speed banked track, the fastest race of them all.

The three main characters are played by Yves Montand, James Garner, and Eva Marie Saint. Montand is the John Wayne of French cinema, and he is superb as Sarti, the elder statesman of the driver contingent. Some critics have said this film is a little short on plot. I disagree for mainly one reason. The star here, in my opinion, is Montand. This film is not only about racing, it is equally about Sarti and racing. If you want plot, pay attention to every word he says and the way he says them. With his French accent, the lines of Sarti really enrich the film, actually carry the film between the race scenes. Very memorable.

Winner of three Academy Awards for film editing, sound, and sound effects. One of my favorites.

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