I watched most of this yesterday for the first time in decades. The first 45 min is a
MUST SEE interview with James Garner, John Frakenheimer and footage from the making of
Grand Prix.
I went and bought the 2-disc DVD. Not only is the movie produced from a restored 65 mm spherical Panovision print but it also includes four+ more programs. Most significant is the
Pushing the Limit: The Making of Grand Prix. The other four are
Flat Out: Formula One in the Sixties,
The Style and Sound of Speed and
Brands Hatch: Chasing of the Checkered Flags,
Grand Prix: Challenge of Champions and a Speed Channel little “Drive to Live” promo (something there should be more of). All for $15 from Best Buy. The picture is unbleeeavable on a 1080p and the disc is recorded using 5.1 - wow.
I can’t wait until HD-DVD price comes down as the movie is currently available in that format also. I understand that some of the original footage was filmed in 3D in that giant format. Can you imagine when that technology is available at a reasonable price?
Can we list other videos and sources for F1 of that era? How about the endurance races with Porsche?
Does anyone in the entertainment industry know if it is possible to have a screening of the original restored film? I’ll bet we could get enough subscribers in LA for a “private” showing in Cinerama if the screen still exists. Same with that other significant movie from Solar Productions.
What trailers are available there? Given that only a few percent of the film footage was used in the original production, you would think there is a possibility of an extended production. Sorta like what
Dances With Wolves did only more so.
I also think we need a 911 movie with an equally talented director. Say a World Porsche Cup series with some IMSA involvement? How about some talented script writers stepping up (Gunter
)? I’m talking about another real racing movie in the tradition of the above. Forget the computer generated
faux movie tricks. With today’s miniature cameras and technology, it can all be “real” as Hollywood goes.
I think Porsche AG is missing the bet by not sponsoring (with no strings) script writing and other support. In whatever form, it sould be someone's great creative effort, not a finance committee.
I think it is possible to appeal to a general commercial audience (what pays for this) and also have the extreme of driving and technical. Not only are the technical aspects worthwhile in their own right but it is something unique for the general audience that most can appreciate.
I think this decade may offer the last real oppertunity for this.
I really want to take my hat off to Lee Katzin and particularly John Frakenheimer for directing the two most significant (yet) movies about motor racing. Whenever you have the chance, thank these guys.
Best,
Grady