– A Solid Biopic with a Few Misfires
Ferrari is a solid film with a lot of strengths, even if it didn’t quite land the way I had hoped. At the center of it all is Adam Driver, who continues to impress with his range. Whether or not you fall in love with the characters he plays, you can’t deny the sheer talent he brings to each role. His portrayal of Enzo Ferrari is committed, layered, and grounded—just as you’d expect.
The story itself is strong, though a bit slower than I would have liked. That isn’t necessarily a flaw, just more of a pacing preference. I went in expecting a deeper look into Ferrari’s creative process—something that focused on the innovation and design behind the iconic brand—but that’s not really what this film is about. It leans more into the personal struggles and pressures Enzo faced during a pivotal time in his life. Once I adjusted my expectations, I found plenty to appreciate.
The casting overall is quite strong, with performances that feel grounded and authentic. That said, one element that felt out of place was Shailene Woodley. While her acting is fine, her portrayal didn’t feel particularly Italian in a film that very much centers on Italian culture, heritage, and identity. It stood out even more when placed next to Adam Driver, who clearly put significant effort into his accent and demeanor. It may have been a directorial choice, but it was one that pulled me out of the world a bit.
Still, there’s a lot to admire here. The cinematography is beautiful, the emotional stakes are well-developed, and the tone is consistent throughout. Ferrari doesn’t try to be flashy—it’s a slow burn, but one that’s built with care.
In the end, Ferrari is worth watching. It’s not the movie I expected, but it’s a well-crafted biopic with strong performances—especially from Driver.
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