Ford V Ferrari

Racing car movies are now usually physics-defying franchises such as the Fast And The Furious series. Ford V Ferrari throws back to when most fast cars stayed on track.

Based on a true story, it recounts how the Ford car company expanded beyond being a manufacturer to become one of the major players in '60s car racing. Looking deeper, it's about big, innovative dreamers working within a corporate system that plays it safe.

Could the flick perhaps be a sly look at the corporate machine that is modern Hollywood; a cautionary tale of what happens when too many cooks spoil the broth? Perhaps not… The film aims to please, mainly by playing it safer than the racecars. It’s a slickly made yet straightforward biopic.

Director James Mangold has made a career off solid material. He is largely a dependable filmmaker (Walk The Line, Logan), and here has crafted a breezily entertaining spectacle. The races are fast and enthralling and the period is lovingly crafted, while the drama is clichéd.

The leads are also dependable. Matt Damon is the definition of safe acting. Here, he effectively channels the charismatic everyman for the umpteenth time. Christian Bale compellingly plays yet another vibrant scoundrel whose jovial attitude challenges the norm. It’s a shame a talent like Caitriona Balfe is left to do little more than pander to men.

Nonetheless, Ford V Ferrari is a fine dad movie. It won’t reinvent the wheel, but it’s a fun ride.