Red Dirt Rising

For a movie about racing, it sure was slow. All drama, well at least an attempt at drama that never really hit. The racing was few and far between. Combined with the terrible acting I suggest you pass on this.

The film is a well produced accurate account of the American south in the 1930's as well as a great story about the beginning of stock car racing. Although a bit slow at times, I'd recommend the movie to anyone who has an interest in the period or of racing. Having originally grew up in the south I appreciate the fact that the actors had authentic accents and that the film wasn't glossily made the way Hollywood seems to over glamorize the 30's and 40's. There are defiantly things that could of been improved but for a small movie, it delivers on one important factor, which is heart. The struggle in the south is well represented and you find yourself hoping that the main character doesn't give up on his dreams. It's a beautifully shot movie particularly the racing sequences as the movie makers made the cars and country roads look beautiful. The film is a bit slow in places (it could have defiantly have been a bit faster in the first 20 minutes) but it does a good job giving you a little idea of the way it was for the early drivers. All in all, its a good movie that your whole family can enjoy.

Having grown up in a stock car racing family, I recognize the realities of a passion for racing without the financial backing to realize the dream. This film tells the story of a young man with a compelling desire to race with the big boys, but no way to break in. It's a film about never giving up on your dream, no matter what. It's about allowing the desire to race and compete to clear the path to victory. The story is moving. The film is beautifully shot and directed. The acting is honest. Even though Red Dirt Rising is an independent film produced with a small budget, it can hold it's own against the big Hollywood dramas. This film is a winner and you don't have to be a race fan to root for the hero.