Roger Ebert did not review the film because he had died; three-star predictions are hypothetical and comparisons to earlier films are not this film’s rating.
The trailer, Whole Lotta Love, ice bath and Daytona opening efficiently establish Sonny’s character and are scene candidates.
The audition challenge and car flip are enjoyable, although the successful timing seems hard to reconcile with the driving errors.
The pub conversation and old-school/new-school training montage are scene candidates, with the canal setting and romantic chemistry praised.
The rain crash is praised for genuine uncertainty about whether the younger driver might die, unlike protected franchise characters.
The recovery montage, poker game and balcony monologue are scene candidates; the speech earns the later flying sensation.
Sonny insisting on racing despite medical objections and the final sprint are additional scene candidates; an Anton Chigurh coin toss is jokingly imagined.
Monza is one explicit scene choice, especially the rain, safety car, slingshot move and emergency response; the delayed British start is another favorite.
The flying finish is the next choice and receives agreement; Monza is the fallback.
The diner reunion between old friends is another beloved scene.
Drive to Survive, the Las Vegas race, YouTube archival footage and celebrity-heavy global popularity define the period.
Formula One fandom is compared with fashionable American soccer fandom, followed by a sports tangent and discussion of supporting teams versus drivers.
The manager is the initial weak-link choice despite praise for the performer, because the role is thin.
The manager needs a clearer comic or self-interested motive; his mild response to the athlete rejecting social media leaves the character underdeveloped.
Sonny’s age and spinal history are another weak-link choice, although others classify that implausibility as a nitpick they happily accept.
