Rush: Immortalizing one of F1's greatest rivalries

Two-time Academy Award winner Ron Howard directs the film recreation of the rivalry of James Hunt and Niki Lauda, one of racing's most intense rivalries.

The biopic follows James Hunt and Niki Lauda, two of F1’s biggest names during the 1970s with Chris Hemsworth (Thor, The Avengers) as the charismatic Hunt and Daniel Bruhl (Inglorious Basterds) as Lauda.  

The film explores their lives on and off the track, and what it takes to endure the physical and psychological pressure of racing. The contrasting personalities of the two drivers are expected to create an interesting plot that will add more color to the whole F1 mythos.

James Hunt, who earned the nickname ‘Hunt the Shunt,’ began his racing career with touring cars. From that point, he progressed into Formula Three then to Formula One until his retirement during the 1979 season. He continued his presence in the racing scene as a commentator in BBC where he pressed on drivers who are not ‘trying hard enough.’ Hunt died at an early age of 45 in 1993 due to a heart attack. Despite death, he was able to influence current racing drivers like Kimi Raikkonen.

Niki Lauda on the other hand, started with a Mini in 1968 before making way to Formula Vee and Formula Three. By 1972, he made his way into the March Formula Two and Formula One teams. His stint with Ferrari that lasted from 1974 to 1977 furthered his racing career and gave him the monicker ‘The Computer.’

Set to hit the theaters this September 18, Rush also stars Olivia Wilde, Alexandra Maria Lara and Stephen Mangan.

Are you prepared for Rush?