Available on DVD and digital download in the UK from December 19th is the motor racing docu-film, Hunt vs Lauda: The Next Generation. Directed by Charlotte Fantelli, the film follows the story of Freddie Hunt and Mathias Lauda, the sons of legendary drivers, James Hunt and Niki Lauda.
The premise of the documentary is to tell the story of Freddie and Mathias, from their background and their life experiences, to their status as the offspring of world-famous competitors. The documentary then builds to a head-to-head clash, as both compete in a friendly race which takes place at Donington Circuit.
Featuring archival material and input from friends, family members, and racing insiders, Hunt vs Lauda: The Next Generation is both a documentary and an opportunity to create (or recreate) history. It is a docu-film which looks at friendship and rivalry; the energy, excitement, and determination it takes to succeed in such a fast-paced and dangerous sport; and most important of all, it provides racing fans with the chance to see two icons take to the track.
Now, anyone who knows me well will tell you, I know very little about motor racing. I can just about name half-a-dozen F1 drivers (at a push), and back in 1998 I clocked up a few laps on Colin McRae Rally on the PlayStation. But beyond this, my knowledge of fast cars and racing is pretty limited – and that’s putting it mildly.
So, going into this documentary, I expected the whole thing would zoom past me and leave me for dust. Thing is, having now watched Hunt vs Lauda: The Next Generation, I can tell you that I have a greater knowledge and better understanding of the sport and some of its greatest competitors.
Something which this title does very well, is to set out its premise, its history, and its information in an easily accessible way. Even a racing novice like me can jump on board, and that’s saying something.
Personally, I found the first half of the documentary to be the most interesting, as it focuses more on Freddie and Mathias, and their respective fathers; however, I imagine those who are really into motor racing will better connect with the second half, when the docu-film devotes its time to the race. Either way, there’s enough dialogue and racing action to satisfy different tastes, and at around 80-minutes in length it doesn’t outstay its welcome.
However, I will say, that while Hunt vs Lauda: The Next Generation is an easy to watch docu-film, and accessible for all, ultimately it is geared more towards racing enthusiasts. Those who are fans of this sport, or who love to devour anything connected to racing will get the most out of it.
This docu-film feels very much like a stocking stuffer for Christmas, to be enjoyed with a couple of drinks and maybe a mince pie on Boxing Day afternoon. As such, this digital and DVD release is suitably timed, so if you have a racing fan in your family, this could be one to check out.
Disclaimer: I earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
It's A Stampede! 
Leave a Reply