The Great Race
dir. Blake Edwards · 1965
Feature
Underdog Triumph
Mood
Adventurous / Comedic
Look
vibrant color palette with exaggerated set designs reminiscent of silent film aesthetics
Structure
episodic with a series of comedic set pieces
Plot
Professional daredevil and white-suited hero, The Great Leslie, convinces turn-of-the-century auto makers that a race from New York to Paris (westward across America, the Bering Straight and Russia) will help to promote automobile sales. Leslie's arch-rival, the mustached and black-attired Professor Fate vows to beat Leslie to the finish line in a car of Fate's own invention.
Why watch
"The Great Race" is a rollicking adventure that combines slapstick humor with a whimsical race across continents, showcasing the absurdity of rivalry and the spirit of competition. With its vibrant visuals and playful satire, this film invites viewers to revel in the joy of adventure and the charm of classic comedy.
Talking points
- the evolution of comedy in cinema
- the role of competition in society
- the impact of technology on adventure narratives
- the charm of vintage filmmaking techniques
Cultural context
1960s American optimismthe rise of automobile culturethe influence of silent film comedythe era of grand adventure films