The film "Race for Glory: Audi vs. Lancia" makes no secret of its dramatic liberties, explicitly stating in its closing credits that it should not be seen as an accurate historical record. This drama, inspired by the 1983 World Rally Championship, centers on the intense rivalry between Team Audi and Team Lancia, with a particular focus on Lancia's driven manager, Cesare Fiorio.
Riccardo Scamarcio, known for roles in "John Wick: Chapter 2" and "A Haunting in Venice," not only stars as Fiorio but also contributes as a producer and co-screenwriter. His portrayal dominates the film, often overshadowing other elements of the story. While it would be unfair to label the movie as purely self-serving, it's clear that the narrative loses some of its vigor in scenes where Scamarcio is absent.
The film does have its lighter moments, such as when Team Audi's manager Roland Gumpert, played by Daniel Brühl, humorously vents his frustration at Fiorio's tactics. Similarly, Fiorio's quips, like his jibe about German wine, add a touch of humor. However, these comedic elements are sparse and do little to energize the overall narrative.
The depiction of the racing scenes in "Race for Glory" falls short of the dynamic and exhilarating portrayals in films like "Rush," "Ford v Ferrari," and "Ferrari." Instead, the movie often dwells on Fiorio strategizing with his team, a portrayal that, while detailed, lacks the thrill of the actual races. The film also features Walter Röhrl, played by Volker Bruch, as Lancia's top driver, but his character's depth and complexities are only briefly explored, leaving the audience wanting more.
Jane McCoy, portrayed by Katie Clarkson-Hill, is another character who deserved a more in-depth treatment. As a nutritionist and the daughter of a deceased racer, she joins Fiorio's team under his impulsive decision. The film commendably avoids the cliché of a romantic subplot between Fiorio and McCoy, focusing instead on their professional relationship.
Fiorio's challenges extend beyond the race track. His team, funded by the Italian car manufacturer Fiat, is under pressure to win races to boost car sales. This corporate backdrop adds another layer to the film's narrative, showing Fiorio's dedication to not just winning races but also satisfying corporate expectations.
Throughout the film, Scamarcio's portrayal of Fiorio is a highlight, capturing the manager's single-minded obsession with victory. His performance adds depth to the character, especially in scenes where Fiorio discusses the dangers of racing. Despite these strengths, the film struggles to consistently engage the audience, partly due to its unbalanced focus and lack of suspenseful race sequences.
In sum, "Race for Glory: Audi vs. Lancia" presents an intriguing look at a historical rivalry in the world of rally racing, driven by Scamarcio's compelling performance as Fiorio. However, it misses opportunities to delve deeper into the intricacies of the sport and the personalities involved, resulting in a film that, while informative, could have benefitted from more dynamic storytelling.
