Early in the production of the Ford v Ferrari movie starring Matt Damon as Carroll Shelby and Christian Bale as Ken Miles, the filmmakers at 20th Century Fox came to Edelbrock to provide some period-correct performance parts, signage and logos that you’ll see throughout the film. One of the perks of our involvement was an invitation to attend the movie’s premiere. Our VP of Marketing, Marissa Colwell, drew this assignment along with a small group of Edelbrock employees. Without revealing the storyline or any of the highlights of Ford v Ferrari, she came back with this review:
One of my first thoughts as I was walking out of the Ford v Ferrari screening was that Steve McQueen must be smiling somewhere as it was reminiscent, of the great classic car movies that really don’t get made anymore. It felt real, gritty and raw and provided a glimpse into a chapter of automotive history that many people just don’t know about. That Edelbrock itself as a company played a small role in this story is a huge honor.
The cars and locations were beautiful, the technical and historical accuracy was spot on, the driving sequences were some of the best I have seen but what really resonated with me was the friendship which is truly the heart of this story. Matt Damon as an uncompromisingly determined Carroll Shelby and Christian Bale as the passionately authentic Ken Miles were phenomenal. It didn’t feel like A list actors performing a role, they were truly channeling the spirit of these race legends.
“That Edelbrock itself as a company played a small role in this story is a huge honor.”
In real life and in the film these men set a goal and chased it with every bone in their body. Building a car that could out perform a Ferrari at Le Mans was only the beginning of their challenges but no matter the obstacle, they worked through it together with a sense of dignity, humor and a well- aimed wrench.
Ford v Ferrari is my favorite film of the year and I would highly recommend to all but especially to auto-enthusiasts. I believe it has something that would appeal to all ages and most importantly has no shortage of speed or heart. Special Thanks to 20th Century Fox for bringing this story to life and to Ken Miles and Carroll Shelby for living life in a way that is greater than any fiction. – Marissa Colwell
Ford v Ferrari will be in theaters starting November 15.
Digital Content Specialist at Edelbrock
Brian Hatano is a veteran automotive journalist and former editor of Car Craft, Petersen’s Drag Racing, Sport Compact Car and Motorcyclist magazines.