Director: Asif Kapadia (5/5)
Senna is an unforgettable film. The documentary examines the public career of Formula One driver and Brazilian national icon Ayrton Senna. At the same time it presents an extremely personal portrait of a man who revolutionised the racing world. There is no doubt that Senna is far more than a turbo-charged racing doco for the Top Gear enthusiast. Rather, reaching well beyond, that it is a simple and intimate example of the social and political implications and edifying effects of sport.
Ayrton Senna burst on to the F1 scene in 1984 after a successful early career in kart racing. He immediately made a strong impact with his staggering aggression and unwavering focus. On the track he was described in just one word: "fast". Despite an intense passion for his sport and being revered as Brazil's golden boy, Senna remained charming and self-effacing.
What really gets the film going is the dynamic between Senna and McLaren teammate and adversary Alain Prost. The politically polluted era of F1 racing in the late Eighties and early Nineties unjustly impacted on Senna's career and time after time he fell victim to this backdrop.
Continuous rich archival footage of his life authenticates the experience and brings you right in close to Ayrton Senna, even if his name meant nothing to you before the film. Onboard cameras during his races create a raw and unrelenting melodrama, however utterly boring you consider the sport. There are wonderful introspective moments of Senna brooding in state of pre-race meditation. Personal accounts from those closest to him - his sister Vivianne and his racing team - provide brilliant insight. A deeply religious man (claiming God came to him in moments of need during a race), the spiritual exhaustion and overwhelming joy of victory is translated beautifully in the film. Even the champagne ceremony feels like a religious act in itself.
Following Senna's career is a captivating and powerful experience, from the great heights of national glory and adoration to the dispiriting lows of defeat and corruption and the mortal risks faced in the sport. Without reservation, this film is a highly recommended watch. Senna takes the lead and in breathtaking fashion laps you over and over: Primeiro Brasil-il-il-il-il!
Senna
