And Colossally That's History!

The making of 'Grand Prix' - the movie that took F1 to the masses

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Episode notes

This week Matt and Richard are winding the clock back to 1966 - a year when the worlds of Formula 1 and Hollywood collided with the on-location production of John Frankenheimer’s epic movie Grand Prix.

The film has received mixed reviews over the years, but what made it so interesting for motor racing fans back then - and what makes it such compelling viewing for modern fans today - is that although the story and characters are fictionalised, much of the action footage used in the film is genuine race footage, featuring genuine racing stars of the day.

Matt and Richard dive into the details of how the movie was produced amid the drama of a real Formula 1 season, how Frankenheimer convinced Enzo Ferrari to allow his cars in the film, and how innovative recording techniques (including some crazy camera cars) enabled Frankenheimer to make the staged racing sequences so authentic and immersive.

They also discuss Graham Hill's acting chops, give their views on the film's oft-criticised 'soap opera' storylines, debate whether lead actor James Garner could have cut it as a real racer, and explain which real-life drivers and real-life events were the inspiration for the movie’s characters and most dramatic moments.


A Race Media Production

Producer: Jonny Reynolds

With special thanks to Tim Silvey for studio support

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