2011 Sundance Docs in Focus: SENNA

Wrapping up this year’s World Cinema Competition is Asif Kapadia’s SENNA, from the UK, the story of the eponymous three-time Formula One world champion.

Sundance Program Description:

The story of Ayrton Senna, perhaps the greatest race car driver who ever lived, is an epic tale that literally twists at every turn. In the mid 1980s, Senna, a young, gifted driver, exploded onto the world of Formula One racing. As a Brazilian in a predominantly European sport, a purist in a world polluted with backroom deals, and a man of faith in an arena filled with cynicism, Senna had to fight hard—both on and off the track. Facing titanic struggles, he conquered Formula One and became a global icon who was idolized in his home country.

Told solely through the use of archival footage, Asif Kapadia’s documentary is a thrill ride worthy of its daring subject. Adrenaline will be pumping as cameras from inside Senna’s car put you smack-dab in the driver’s seat. Buckle your seat belt; SENNA will take you on a trip you do not want to miss.

Some Background:
Director Kapadia has previous directed a number of narrative shorts and features, and is the recipient of two BAFTA awards. Joining him on his first feature-length doc are veteran producers Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner of Working Title Films. While the pair aren’t well-known for documentaries, their careers stretch back to such narrative projects as MY BEAUTIFUL LAUNDRETTE and SID AND NANCY through A SERIOUS MAN and FROST/NIXON. In addition, Producer James Gay-Rees has had work appear in Park City before – he produced the critically-acclaimed 2010 Sundance alum EXIT THROUGH THE GIFT SHOP.

Why You Should Watch:
Even if you’re not necessarily a fan of the sport, Kapadia has assembled a large amount of previously unseen Formula One footage in such a thrilling manner, you’re apt to be a convert, at least for the running time of the film.

Screening Info:
For screening dates and times at Sundance, click the link in the first paragraph above.