10 Exciting Formula 1 Documentaries
Whether you're a die-hard Formula 1 fan or just curious about motorsports, there are plenty of documentaries available to give you an in-depth look into the world of F1 racing.
From the intense rivalries to the technology behind the cars, these documentaries offer an inside perspective on one of the most exciting sports in the world. Here, we'll go over the top ten F1 documentaries you need to watch.
Steve McQueen: The Lost Movie (2021)
This brand new documentary, directed by Gabriel Clarke and John McKenna, is a must-see for all motorsports fans. The film explores Steve McQueen's passion for racing and his dream to capture the thrill of racing on film.
McQueen’s 1971 movie, "Le Mans," is a cult classic for racing enthusiasts. However, he began work on an even more ambitious project, codenamed "The 14 Hour Race." Initially, intended to be a documentary, McQueen's vision was to capture the essence of the 24 Hours of Le Mans race for 14 hours of uninterrupted footage. Unfortunately, the project was never completed, and the existing footage was lost for decades. This documentary tells the story of how the film was lost but later discovered and restored.
Schumacher (2021)
"Schumacher" is a documentary that focuses on the life and career of the seven-time F1 world champion Michael Schumacher. The film features interviews with family, friends, and former colleagues, providing an insight into the man behind the legend.
The documentary provides viewers with an intimate look at Schumacher, who survived severe head injuries following a skiing accident in 2013, and features never-before-seen footage from his career.
1: Life on the Limit (2013)
This documentary depicts the dangerous world of Formula 1 racing from its beginnings to the present day. Narrated by Michael Fassbender, the film explores the rivalry between drivers and the high risks they face when racing at speeds of over 200mph.
The film features interviews with F1 legends, including Jackie Stewart, Nigel Mansell, and Alain Prost, among others, providing an overview of the sport and its evolution.
Drive To Survive (2019)
"Drive to Survive" is a Netflix original documentary series that takes viewers behind the scenes of the 2018 F1 season. The ten-part series follows the highs and lows of the drivers, teams, and the sport itself, and provides an intimate look at the personalities and politics of the F1 world.
The documentary combines real-time footage with interviews of key F1 figures, giving viewers new and entertaining insights into what happens behind the scenes.
Senna (2010)
This documentary tells the story of the late Brazilian Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna. The film explores his life and career, his intense rivalry with fellow racer Alain Prost, and his tragic death at the San Marino Grand Prix in 1994.
The documentary features never-before-seen footage and interviews with key figures in the F1 world, providing an insight into what made Senna one of the greatest racing drivers of all time.
Williams (2017)
Williams (2017) is a documentary that delves into the world of one of the most successful Formula 1 teams ever, Williams Racing. It portrays the incredible story of Sir Frank Williams and his daughter, Claire, who took over the family business after Frank's accident that left him paralyzed.
The documentary takes you through the rise and fall of the team, the conflicts between drivers, including Damon Hill and Jacques Villeneuve, and the setbacks caused by serious accidents. The interviews with the key players, combined with the insights into the technical aspects of Formula 1 cars and races, make this film a must-see for any racing enthusiast.
Jochen Rindt: Uncrowned Champion (2020)
Jochen Rindt: Uncrowned Champion (2020) is a documentary that explores the life and death of Jochen Rindt, the only driver in Formula 1 history to win the championship posthumously. The film narrates his journey from a privileged Austrian childhood to his debut in Formula 1 with Cooper-Maserati and his subsequent move to Lotus, where he became a dominant force.
The documentary presents archive footage, interviews with fellow racers, and previously unpublished photos that offer new insights into Rindt's personality and racing style. The film also addresses the tragic accident that took his life at Monza during practice for the Italian Grand Prix in 1970.
Jochen Rindt: Uncrowned Champion
Weekend of a Champion (2013)
Weekend of a Champion (2013) is a documentary directed by Roman Polanski that offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the Monaco Grand Prix in 1971. The film captures the weekend that Jackie Stewart, one of the greatest drivers in Formula 1 history, won the race with his team, Tyrell Racing. The film features extensive footage of Stewart, including candid moments with his family and conversations with Polanski about his life, career, and fears.
The film gives an extraordinary insight into the mental and physical preparation required for Formula 1, and the pressures that drivers face both on and off the track.
Ferrari: Race to Immortality (2017)
Ferrari: Race to Immortality (2017) explores the history of Ferrari, one of the most iconic brands in motorsports. The film depicts the golden age of motor racing, from the late 1940s to the mid-1950s, where the rivalry between Enzo Ferrari's team and other manufacturers was at its peak.
The documentary features archive footage combined with interviews with drivers, mechanics, and designers who shaped Ferrari's legacy. The film also highlights the tragic events that marked the brand's history, such as the death of Alfonso de Portago and the disaster at the 1957 Mille Miglia race.
Life of Speed: The Juan Manuel Fangio Story (2020)
Life of Speed: The Juan Manuel Fangio Story (2020) is a documentary that celebrates the career of the five-time Formula 1 champion, Juan Manuel Fangio. The film explores Fangio's humble beginnings in Argentina, his unstoppable ascent to become one of the best drivers ever, and his battles with other gifted racers such as Stirling Moss and Alberto Ascari.
The documentary features exclusive interviews with experts and journalists who provide context and analysis, as well as with Fangio's family members, who reveal new anecdotes and impressions about the man behind the legend. The film showcases Fangio's charisma, his professionalism, and his passion for speed.
Life of Speed: The Juan Manuel Fangio Story
Conclusion
There you have it, the top five Formula 1 documentaries you should watch. These films capture the spirit, the essence, and the heart of the sport and show why F1 is so much more than a car race. From the danger and intensity of the drivers to the politics of the sport, these documentaries provide a fascinating insight into the world of Formula 1.
Whether you’re new to F1 or a seasoned fan, there’s something for everyone in these films, so grab some popcorn and get watching!
#world championships #mclaren motor racing team #one world championship #previously unseen footage #lewis hamilton #grand prix racing #golden era
