- Rush, by Ron Howard (2013)
- Ford V Ferrari, by James Mangold (2019)
- Cars, by John Lasseter (2006)
- Le Mans, by Lee H. Katzin (1971)
- Gran Turismo, by Neill Blomkamp (2023)
- Turbo, by David Soren (2013)
- Need for Speed, by Scott Waugh (2014)
- Initial D, by Andrew Lau and Alan Mak (2005)
- Speed Racer, by Lilly Wachowski and Lana Wachowski (2008)
- Days of Thunder, by Tony Scott (1990)
- Michel Vaillant, by Louis-Pascal Couvelaire (2003)
- Driven, by Renny Harlin (2001)
What are the best racing films to test your home theater? To mark the theatrical release of Race for Glory: Audi vs Lancia, here’s a small selection of movies featuring some of the world’s greatest cars.
Race for Glory: Audi vs Lancia, a film recounting the rivalry between Lancia and Audi in the early 80s, arrived in movie theaters this Febuary. This rivalry is illustrated on the track by the duel between Walter Röhrl, driving the legendary Lancia Rally 037, and Hannu Mikkola, at the wheel of the legendary Audi Quattro. To mark the occasion, we’ve compiled a (non-exhaustive) list of the best motor racing films to take your home theater to new heights! Movies to rewatch on repeat on your 4K TV or, better still, on a large screen with a projector and HD Blu-ray player, or a network media player and AV receiver to power a speaker pack.
Rush, by Ron Howard (2013)
Released in 2013, Rush recounts the duel between two of history’s most talented Formula 1 drivers: James Hunt (Chris Hemsworth) and Niki Lauda (Daniel Brühl), competing for the McLaren and Ferrari teams. The film follows the frenetic lives of these two drivers, both on and off the track, tracing the rivalry between these two driving stars from their very beginnings: English playboy James Hunt, charismatic and handsome from the upper middle class, and Niki Lauda, the reserved and methodical Austrian driver.
With Rush, Ron Howard manages to capture the tension of Formula 1 races with great realism and tension. Chris Hemsworth and Daniel Brühl, the main actors, spent several months learning to drive race cars to prepare for the movie. You’ll be swept up in this human adventure that propels you at high speed around the most prestigious circuits, with a DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack that will awaken your AV receiver.
Supported by spot-on, no-nonsense dialogue, Daniel Brühl (…) and Chris Hemsworth (…) give credibility to their reverential war, which is gripping from start to finish. (…) From a visual standpoint alone, it’s clear that this is the filmmaker’s masterpiece, and perhaps the finest film ever made about Formula 1.
Le Monde
- AlloCiné: 4.3/5
- IMDb: 8.1/10
Available on DVD and HD Blu-ray; on Prime Video, YouTube and Apple TV
- Picture (Blu-ray): 1080p24, 2.40:1
- Audio: DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1
Ford V Ferrari, by James Mangold (2019)
A genuine human and sporting odyssey inspired by a true story, Ford V Ferrari follows the adventure of two men united by their passion for motor racing. Carroll Shelby (Matt Damon), a visionary automotive engineer, is hired by Ford to try and overturn Ferrari’s domination of the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans circuit. With the help of his friend Ken Miles (Christian Bale), an impulsive and determined British driver of exceptional talent, they work together to develop one of the most legendary GT cars: the Ford GT40.
More than just a racing movie, Ford V Ferrari is a poignant story of force and ambition, courage and risk-taking, and the exhilaration of triumph. James Mangold’s creation, complemented by Phedon Papamichael’s superb photography, delivers stunning 4K HDR10 images. The Dolby Atmos soundtrack is equally impressive, with magnificent work on the soundscapes in the paddocks and cockpit of the GT40. Perfect for testing your Dolby Atmos soundbar!
What a movie! At the wheel, director James Mangold manages to strike the perfect balance between the economic stakes of this tale, the human story between Shelby and Miles, and the exhilarating, spectacular high-octane racing scenes.
Le Parisien
- AlloCiné: 4.3/5
- IMDb: 8.1/10
Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and UHD Blu-ray; on Disney+, Prime Video, YouTube and Apple TV
- Picture (UHD Blu-ray): 2160p24, 1.78:1, HDR10
- Audio: Dolby Atmos
Cars, by John Lasseter (2006)
Flash McQueen, a cocky and talented young racing car, is on his way to the final of the Piston Cup, the world’s most prestigious race. But on the way, he gets lost at Radiator Springs, a remote little town on Route 66. Here, he meets a community of endearing characters and discovers a simple, authentic way of life that makes him forget his thirst for glory. Flash learns to appreciate friendship, solidarity and the importance of his origins.
When former racing legend Doc Hudson offers to train him, Flash begins to question his priorities. He realizes that there’s more to winning than crossing the finish line first. With the help of his new friends, Flash will surpass his limits and discover the true meaning of racing. He’ll enter the Piston Cup with a new outlook on life and the things that really matter.
A family animated adventure that’s both funny and moving, Cars is as much a film about car racing as it is a story about friendship, solidarity and challenging oneself. The excellent 4K HDR10 picture quality, combined with a soundtrack that’s bursting with sound effects, will allow you to fully enjoy your 4K TV and wireless home theater system.
- AlloCiné: 3.8/5
- IMDb: 7.2/10
Available on DVD, Blu-ray and UHD Blu-ray; on Disney+, Prime Video, YouTube and Apple TV
- Picture (UHD Blu-ray): 2160p, HDR10, 2.40:1
- Audio: Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD 7.1, PCM 5.1
Le Mans, by Lee H. Katzin (1971)
Michael Delaney (Steve McQueen), a talented but arrogant racing driver, is haunted by the death of his friend during a race. Competing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in a Porsche 917, he is determined to beat his rival, German champion Erich Stahler (Siegfried Rauch) in a Ferrari 512 S.
Based on a fictional scenario, the film was shot during the actual 1970 Le Mans 24 Hours. To provide realistic images, three cameras were mounted on a car actually taking part in the race. A further three months of filming on location were required, with 25 racing cars mobilized for the occasion. Deeply involved in the project, Steve McQueen performed most of the stunts himself, including the high-speed driving.
An intense, spectacular film, Le Mans is considered a classic of motor sport cinema, appreciated for its realistic racing scenes and unique atmosphere.
A true ode to motor racing, the 1:46 film plunges us into the beauty and danger of the world’s most prestigious endurance event. Don’t miss the Blu-ray’s DTS-HD 7.1 audio track, ideal for enjoying the full intensity of this legendary film with your AV receiver.
- AlloCiné: 3.3/5
- IMDb: 6.7/10
Available on DVD and Blu-ray; and on Prime Video
- Picture (Blu-ray): 1080p, 2.35:1
- Audio: DTS-HD 7.1
Gran Turismo, by Neill Blomkamp (2023)
Based on true events, the Gran Turismo movie tells the story of Jann Mardenborough (Archie Madekwe), a gifted young Gran Turismo gamer who, thanks to his virtual driving skills, joins the GT Academy in 2011, which aims to train real drivers. Propelled into the real world of racing, he will have to face experienced pilots aboard a real GT car.
Despite its unsurprising storyline, Gran Turismo‘s skill at putting the virtual and real worlds of motor racing into perspective is a real winner. The way the cars are filmed, with angles reminiscent of Polyphony Digital’s flagship title, will appeal to both fans of the video game license and lovers of beautiful GT cars.
The races are filmed realistically and with palpable tension, with on-board cameras and close-ups of the drivers’ faces helping us to feel the intensity of the competition. It’s a pity that the script doesn’t go any further in characterizing the characters, who remain rather superficial, despite an ambitious cast (David Harbour and Orlando Bloom, in particular).
Surprise: the adaptation of this blockbuster PlayStation video game was a minor success, and marks the return of an exciting filmmaker.
Le Point
- AlloCiné: 3.3/5
- IMDb: 6.7/10
Available on DVD and Blu-ray; and on Prime Video
- Picture (UHD Blu-ray): 2160p24, HDR10 & Dolby Vision, 1.90:1
- Audio: Dolby Atmos
Turbo, by David Soren (2013)
Turbo is a snail like no other. Unlike his counterparts, who are content with a peaceful life in a vegetable garden, he dreams of speed and glory. One day, an extraordinary accident gives him the chance to make his dream come true: he becomes super-fast!
Turbo is thrust into the merciless world of motor racing, and faces a host of challenges. With the help of his friends, he will learn to push himself and prove that even a small snail can achieve great things.
This funny and moving animated film will test your audio system and entertain the whole family. It’s a story about surpassing oneself, friendship and perseverance.
- AlloCiné: 3.5/5
- IMDb: 6.4/10
Available on DVD and Blu-ray
- Picture: 2.35:1
- Audio: DTS-HD 5.1
Need for Speed, by Scott Waugh (2014)
Directed by Scott Waugh and inspired by the popular video game series, Need for Speed follows Tobey Marshall (Aaron Paul), an outstanding driver and mechanic who is unjustly imprisoned for a crime he didn’t commit. When he’s released from prison, he has only one thing on his mind: revenge on his ex-partner and former friend, Dino Brewster (Dominic Cooper), who is responsible for his conviction. To this end, he enters a legendary illegal race that spans the entire U.S. territory: the De Leon. With the support of his accomplices, he unearths an exceptional car, ready to take on this immense challenge.
Need for Speed stands out for its realistic approach to racing, favoring real-life stunts over extensive use of digital special effects, giving the film a rare intensity and authenticity. Several months before filming, Aaron Paul and Dominic Cooper immersed themselves in the world of high-speed racing, training at the Willow Springs track in California.
Former stuntman Waugh’s direction gives each action scene a palpable credibility, while the dynamic soundtrack amplifies the visceral experience of speed. Beyond the adrenaline of racing, the film explores themes of loyalty, passion and self-transcendence, paying homage to car culture and the spirit of freedom it embodies.
- AlloCiné: 3.1/5
- IMDb: 6.4/10
Available on DVD and Blu-ray; on Prime Video, Apple TV and YouTube
- Picture (Blu-ray): 1080p 24, 2.40:1
- Audio: DTS-HD 7.1
Initial D, by Andrew Lau and Alan Mak (2005)
Based on the cult manga of the same name, Initial D tells the story of Takumi Fujiwara, a young tofu delivery boy with unsuspected driving skills, revealed during his nighttime deliveries in the Japanese mountains aboard his Toyota AE86. Thrust into the hectic world of illegal street racing, Takumi discovers his passion for drifting, a driving style requiring great skill. Faced with formidable opponents, he must not only prove his skill behind the wheel, but also assert himself in a competitive environment where every race pushes his limits.
Directed by Andrew Lau and Alan Mak, Initial D stands out for its impressive racing scenes, in which precision and adrenalin reign. Most of the film’s stunts were performed by professional stuntmen, without special effects, giving the film an authentic and spectacular look. The visual and sound production, with its driving music and impressive shots, contributes to an immersive experience, making Initial D a movie that goes beyond racing to touch on themes of youth, surpassing oneself and the quest for identity. The film also helped popularize Japanese car culture and drifting in the West.
- AlloCiné: 3.6/5
- IMDb: 6.3/10
Available on DVD and Blu-ray; on Prime Video, Apple TV and YouTube
- Picture (Blu-ray): 1080p 24, 2.35:1
- Audio: DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 & 2.0 (Japanese) + subtitles
Speed Racer, by Lilly Wachowski and Lana Wachowski (2008)
Speed Racer is a talented young racer who dreams of following in the footsteps of his father, a former champion who died tragically. Entering the legendary Grand Prix race, he faces many challenges and ruthless enemies who want to prevent him from winning. Spectacular stunts and breathtaking races give spectators a thrilling experience.
The cast of this film by the Wachowski sisters includes Emile Hirsch (Into the Wild) as the charismatic and determined Speed Racer. Christina Ricci, John Goodman and Matthew Fox star alongside him.
Entertaining and spectacular, the film’s aesthetic approach, a hybrid of classic cinema and ultra-realistic 3D animation, divided many on its theatrical release. It remains a vibrant tribute to the manga created in 1966 by Tatsuo Yoshida and its 1967 anime. A unique movie offering a singular visual experience, that you have to watch at least once for its ultra-colorful photography, explosive soundtrack and frenetic pace that will delight thrill-seekers.
- AlloCiné: 2.7/5
- IMDb: 6.1/10
Available on DVD and Blu-ray; on Prime Video, Apple TV and YouTube
- Picture (Blu-ray): 1080p, 2.40:1
- Audio: Dolby Digital 5.1
Days of Thunder, by Tony Scott (1990)
Cole Trickle (Tom Cruise), a talented but arrogant young pilot, is thrust into the cut-throat world of NASCAR, America’s most popular motor sport. Under the guidance of an experienced mechanic (Robert Duvall) and a charismatic psychologist (Nicole Kidman), he must learn to control his emotions and channel his talent to become a true champion.
Days of Thunder is renowned for its realistic racing scenes, and Tom Cruise insisted on performing most of his stunts himself, after undergoing intensive training with professional pilots at over 300 km/h. Although the script tells a fictional story, the character Cole Trickle was inspired by Tim Richmond, a talented NASCAR driver who died of pneumonia in 1989. Director Tony Scott met Richmond before his death and was fascinated by his story.
Grossing over $150 million worldwide, the film was also well received by critics, who praised the realistic racing scenes and Tom Cruise’s performance. The film was also nominated for an Oscar for Best Sound Editing, thanks to its epic soundtrack that will make your subwoofer roar.
Produced by Pixar Studios in 2006, Cars is considered by many to be a spiritual sequel to Days of Thunder, due to the similarity of its characters and plot.
- AlloCiné: 2.8/5
- IMDb: 6.1/10
Available on DVD and Blu-ray; on Prime Video, Apple TV and YouTube
- Picture (UHD Blu-ray): 2160p24, Dolby Vision, 2.40:1
- Audio: Dolby TrueHD 5.1
Michel Vaillant, by Louis-Pascal Couvelaire (2003)
Michel Vaillant, talented racing driver and heir to a legendary dynasty, finds himself at the heart of a complex plot involving industrial espionage and sabotage. Entering the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans race, he must thwart the plans of his enemies and defend the honor of his team.
A vibrant tribute to Jean Graton’s iconic comic strip, the film plunges us into the fascinating world of motor racing. From the paddocks to the circuits, via the construction workshops, Michel Vaillant offers total immersion in this world of passion and technology. With spectacular stunts and breathtaking races, the feature film spares no expense in providing viewers with a thrilling experience. The races are brilliantly filmed and the stunts are breathtaking, with a soundtrack that will make your home theater speakers roar!
Here, the stars have four tires and run on fuel. Everything else is merely a pretext. And while some of the dialogue and post-synchronization problems raise eyebrows, there’s no denying the exhilaration offered by the speed and battered metal.
Première
- AlloCiné: 3.2/5
- IMDb: 5.3/10
Available on DVD; on Apple TV and Prime Video
- Picture: 1080p, 2.35:1
- Audio: Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS 5.1 (French)
Driven, by Renny Harlin (2001)
Joe Tanto (Sylvester Stallone) gave up racing at the height of his fame after a serious accident. After several years away from the racetrack, the driver feels ready to get back on track. An old friend asks him to mentor his protégé Jimmy Bly (Kip Pardue), a young driver capable of spectacular feats but lacking in discipline, who is racking up a string of poor performances. Rivalry on the track, manipulation behind the scenes, spectacular accidents… Driven takes us behind the scenes of a world where glory comes at a high price.
Critically panned at the time of its theatrical release, Driven nevertheless offers some spectacular racing and crash scenes, with a soundtrack that will push your speakers to their limits.
- AlloCiné: 1.6/5
- IMDb: 4.6/10
Available on DVD and HD Blu-ray; on Apple TV
- Picture (Blu-ray): 1080p24, 2.35:1
- Audio: DTS 5.1
Don’t hesitate to add your favorite racing films in the comments, as well as those you feel are missing from this non-exhaustive list. And don’t forget to browse our selection of the best films for testing immersive home theater sound (Dolby Atmos, DTS:X…) and our article on the 20 OSTs that have marked the last 20 years, just to test the qualities of your audio system a little more!
