Ford v Ferrari Christian Review
When Ford v Ferrari raced into theaters, it was more than just a film about cars and speed. It was an exhilarating ride through the human spirit, a testament to the complexities of ambition, friendship, and sacrifice. This movie doesn’t just focus on the roar of engines and the thrill of competition; it delves deep into the heart of what it means to pursue something greater than oneself. It challenges us, as viewers, to reflect on the balance between commerce and artistry, and to consider the costs of pushing past boundaries—whether in the racing world or in our own lives.
The Heart of the Film: A Brotherhood of Contrasts
The backbone of Ford v Ferrari is the dynamic, often turbulent relationship between Carroll Shelby (Matt Damon) and Ken Miles (Christian Bale). These two men couldn’t be more different—Shelby, the smooth-talking salesman with a creative flair, and Miles, the rough-around-the-edges driver with an unyielding, obsessive passion for precision. Together, they form a partnership that not only drives the movie forward but embodies the kind of brotherly bond that doesn’t just happen overnight.
Their chemistry is one of the film’s greatest strengths. It’s not the clean, comfortable kind of friendship we often see in movies; it’s messy, often awkward, and yet deeply loyal. Shelby and Miles challenge each other, bicker constantly, and at times even push each other to the brink of exhaustion. But through this friction, they come to understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately, they become a united front against the corporate giants at Ford.
As Christians, this relationship speaks volumes. Proverbs 27:17 tells us, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” In the movie, Shelby and Miles are constantly sharpening each other. Shelby brings the vision, while Miles has the relentless drive to make that vision a reality. Their connection, though born of competition and friction, ultimately becomes one of mutual respect, and that’s where the beauty lies. Their dynamic reminds us that true partnership is about understanding, pushing, and sometimes, even forgiving the other person’s flaws.
The Tension Between Art and Commerce
At its core, Ford v Ferrari explores a conflict that transcends the world of racing—art versus commerce. Shelby and Miles are driven by passion, artistry, and a desire to create something more than just a car. But they are constantly at odds with Ford executives who see racing merely as a business, not a form of creative expression. The company wants results, and they want them fast. Shelby and Miles, on the other hand, want innovation. They want to build something that will stand the test of time, not just something that will win the next race.
This tension is where the film’s true depth lies. While it’s easy to be drawn in by the spectacular race sequences, it’s the underlying battle between visionaries and suits that resonates more deeply. As Christians, this tension may feel all too familiar. How often do we, like Shelby and Miles, face the pressure to sacrifice our values, our creativity, or our integrity in exchange for success or recognition? It calls to mind Matthew 6:24, where Jesus warns, “No one can serve two masters.” Shelby and Miles aren’t trying to serve two masters, but they are caught in the push and pull between artistic expression and corporate demands. The movie is a compelling exploration of that struggle, and it serves as a reminder that we all must examine our own motivations—are we driven by passion or by profit?
The Price of Greatness: Sacrifice and Perseverance
One of the most powerful themes in Ford v Ferrari is the cost of greatness. To be great at something—whether it’s in a race car, at work, or in any pursuit—requires sacrifice. Miles, the passionate driver, sacrifices his personal life, his health, and even his safety in pursuit of perfection. The film paints this idea of sacrifice in a raw and real way. It’s not romanticized. We see the toll it takes on Miles, both physically and emotionally.
As viewers, we are forced to reckon with the fact that greatness is never achieved without a cost. This is a truth that resonates with our Christian faith. Luke 14:27 reminds us that “whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” Just as Christ’s sacrifice is the foundation of our faith, the film challenges us to recognize that our own journeys toward greatness often require us to sacrifice our comfort, our time, and sometimes, even our personal desires.
Cinematically Stunning: The Art of Racing and the Racing of Art
James Mangold’s direction and the film’s cinematography are simply stunning. The race sequences are as heart-pounding as they are beautiful, combining practical effects with high-end filmmaking to create a visceral experience. Every twist and turn on the track feels like it’s happening right in front of you, making the viewer feel the tension and excitement of the race. But it’s not just the cars that are beautifully filmed—it’s the artistry of the characters themselves. The camera lingers on the small, intimate moments between Shelby and Miles, capturing their emotions as much as their actions.
This balance between the loud, fast-paced thrill of racing and the quiet moments of personal reflection is what elevates Ford v Ferrari beyond a simple sports drama. It’s a celebration of artistry in all its forms, from the engineering of the car to the crafting of the performances. The cinematography becomes a metaphor for the film’s central themes—the push and pull between creativity and commerce, art and industry, sacrifice and reward.
The Performances: Bale and Damon Drive the Story
No discussion of Ford v Ferrari would be complete without acknowledging the powerhouse performances from Christian Bale and Matt Damon. Bale’s portrayal of Ken Miles is electrifying. He brings both grit and vulnerability to the role, making Miles a character you can’t help but root for. Damon’s portrayal of Carroll Shelby, meanwhile, is calm and grounded—an anchor to Bale’s fiery performance. Together, they form a dynamic duo that carries the film with ease, bringing heart and humor to their characters’ journey.
Their relationship is built on the tension between their personalities—Shelby’s more measured, diplomatic approach versus Miles’ unrelenting intensity. Yet despite their differences, the respect they share for each other is palpable. It’s a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the best partnerships are born from contrasting strengths and weaknesses.
A Few Speed Bumps Along the Way
No movie is without its flaws, and Ford v Ferrari is no exception. The film is a bit on the long side, and at times, it can feel like it’s spinning its wheels. Some scenes, especially the corporate boardroom moments, drag on a little too long, and the film sometimes leans too heavily into the predictable beats of the underdog story. But even with these minor missteps, the film never loses its heart or its momentum.
Conclusion: A Ride Worth Taking
Ford v Ferrari is a high-octane ride that blends heart, soul, and speed in a way that few films do. It’s a reminder that greatness comes at a cost, that true partnerships are built on loyalty and respect, and that the pursuit of excellence requires both sacrifice and perseverance. It’s a film that entertains, challenges, and ultimately leaves you reflecting on your own life and the sacrifices you’re willing to make to achieve something meaningful.
Rating: 9/10
Despite its few missteps, Ford v Ferrari is a triumph—a film that combines breathtaking action with emotional depth and offers a fresh, poignant take on the classic underdog story. It’s a ride worth taking, and one that will linger long after the credits roll.
