Car racing action movies have always held a special place in cinema, offering audiences an adrenaline-fueled escape into the world of high-speed chases, daring stunts, and heart-pounding excitement.
Netflix, the streaming giant known for its vast and ever-expanding library of films, has curated a selection of the finest car racing action movies that cater to the desires of both gearheads and movie enthusiasts alike. Join us as we rev up the engines and embark on a thrilling cinematic journey through the ten best car racing action movies as presented by Netflix.
This rather short list has everything, from classic franchises to hidden gems. While this review is an unbiased, honest take on each film on the list, we have no doubt they can put you in the driver's seat of pure excitement. The countdown to cinematic speed begins now. Let’s vroom.
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1. F9: The Fast Saga
- Release Date: 2021
- Rating: 16+
- Play Time: 2H 22M
F9: The Fast Saga is the ninth installment in the long-running "Fast & Furious" franchise. While it continues to deliver the high-octane action sequences and car chases that fans have come to expect, it also pushes the boundaries of believability to the extreme, even by the franchise's standards.
The plot takes a back seat to the spectacle, with a convoluted storyline involving long-lost family members and high-tech espionage. One of the film's strengths is its commitment to diversity and inclusion, featuring a multicultural cast and strong female characters.
However, the character development often takes a backseat to the action, leaving some of the emotional beats feeling forced and superficial. Ultimately, "F9" is a mixed bag. It's sure to satisfy fans of the franchise who crave over-the-top stunts and fast cars, but it may leave others feeling that the series has become more about spectacle than storytelling.
2. The Italian Job
- Release Date: 2003
- Rating: 13+
- Play Time: 1H 51M
The Italian Job (2003) is a heist film directed by F. Gary Gray and, while it may not have the same high-octane action as some other entries in the genre, distinguishes itself with its clever and well-executed heist sequences.
The film boasts a charismatic ensemble cast, including Mark Wahlberg, Charlize Theron, and Edward Norton, who deliver solid performances. One of the film's strengths is its intricate plot, which revolves around a heist involving Mini Coopers and gold bars. Using these iconic cars in the heist adds a unique and memorable element to the film.
The heist scenes are well-choreographed and provide a good balance of tension and humor. On the downside, character development is somewhat lacking, and some characters feel underdeveloped. The film also relies on some familiar heist movie tropes, which may make it feel formulaic to viewers familiar with the genre.
3. Need For Speed
- Release Date: 2014
- Rating: 13+
- Play Time: 2H 10M
The 2014 film adaptation of the popular video game series "Need for Speed" had high expectations among fans of the franchise, given its history of fast cars and thrilling races. However, the movie falls short in several areas. On the positive side, "Need for Speed" offers some breathtaking and well-executed car chase sequences.
The film's dedication to practical effects and real stunt work rather than relying heavily on CGI is commendable and delivers an authentic feel to the racing scenes. Aaron Paul's performance as the lead character, Tobey Marshall, is also noteworthy. It showcased the Breaking Bad star’s ability to anchor an action film.
However, the film falters in its plot and character development. The storyline is formulaic and predictable as it follows the typical "vengeance through racing" narrative. More so, the supporting characters lack depth, making it challenging for the audience to invest emotionally in their fates.
Moreover, the film doesn't bring much innovation to the racing movie genre and doesn't capture the essence and excitement of the video game series it's based on. While it offers some visually impressive moments, Aaron Paul’s Need for Speed, sadly, failed to leave a lasting impression in terms of storytelling or character development.
4. Drive
- Release Date: 2019
- Rating: 13+
- Play Time: 1H 59M
"Drive," released in 2019 and directed by Tarun Mansukhani, is a Bollywood action thriller that attempted to bring a unique and stylish approach to the genre. While it had some intriguing elements, it received mixed reviews from both critics and audiences.
One of the film's strengths is its visual aesthetics. "Drive" features well-shot action sequences and some stunning car chases that capture the glamour of Mumbai. Sushant Singh Rajput's charismatic performance as the mysterious getaway driver is a highlight and adds depth to the character.
However, the film falters in terms of its plot and execution. Though centered around a heist involving stolen government gold, the storyline is convoluted and lacks the necessary twists and turns to keep the audience fully engaged. Some elements of the narrative feel rushed and left some questions unanswered.
Additionally, the supporting characters are underdeveloped, and their motivations are often unclear. This weakens the overall impact of the film and makes it challenging to empathize with their actions and choices.
Drive faced criticism for its abrupt tonal shifts as some scenes attempted to blend action and comedy but did not always achieve a cohesive balance.
5. Wheelman
- Release Date: 2017
- Rating: 18+
- Play Time: 1H 22M
"Wheelman," released in 2017 and directed by Jeremy Rush, is a fast-paced action thriller that distinguishes itself with its unique premise and delivery. Starring Frank Grillo as the titular "wheelman," the film largely takes place inside a car and focuses on a high-stakes heist gone wrong.
One of the film's strengths is its minimalist approach to storytelling and action. The majority of the movie is set within the confines of a car, which adds tension and a claustrophobic atmosphere. Frank Grillo's compelling performance as the wheelman effectively conveys the character's desperation and determination.
The film's real-time narrative structure, where events unfold in the same timeframe as the audience experiences them, creates a sense of immediacy and urgency. This storytelling device keeps viewers engaged as they witness the wheelman's efforts to navigate a complex and dangerous situation.
However, "Wheelman" may leave some viewers wanting more in terms of character development and depth. The supporting characters are somewhat one-dimensional, and the film prioritizes action and suspense over backstory and motivation.
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6. Initial D
- Release Date: 2005
- Rating: 13+
- Play Time: 1H 48M
Released in 2005, "Initial D" is a live-action adaptation of the popular Japanese manga and anime series of the same name. The series gained global popularity for its focus on street racing and drifting. Directed by Andrew Lau and Alan Mak, the film brings the high-speed world of underground racing to the big screen.
One of the film's notable strengths is its impressive portrayal of the intense racing scenes and drifting sequences. The filmmakers effectively capture the excitement and adrenaline rush of street racing, a central element of the "Initial D" franchise.
Also, the film’s use of practical effects and real cars adds authenticity to the racing sequences. Moreover, "Initial D" benefits from a well-chosen cast. Jay Chou played the lead role of skilled street racer Takumi Fujiwara.
Chou's performance adds charisma to the character and makes him relatable to fans of the original series. However, some fans of the anime and manga versions might find that the live-action adaptation simplifies certain elements of the story and lacks the depth and character development present in the source material.
Additionally, the film's pacing can feel uneven at times. That’s because the racing scenes can seem like the highlight sandwiched between dramas that may not resonate as strongly.
7. Collateral
- Release Date: 2004
- Rating: R for Violence & Language
- Play Time: 2H
"Collateral" is a neo-noir action thriller directed by the Emmy and BAFTA Award-winning Michael Mann and released in 2004. The crime thriller received critical acclaim for its gripping story and strong performances from its cast.
One of the film's standout features is its atmospheric and stylish cinematography. Michael Mann's direction creates a moody and tense atmosphere that adds depth to the narrative. The film is set over the course of a single night in Los Angeles, with the city itself becoming a character and contributing to the film's overall sense of unease.
The performances in "Collateral" are exceptional. Tom Cruise delivered a departure from his typical heroic roles by playing a cold and calculating hitman, Vincent. Jamie Foxx (as the taxi driver Max) provides a compelling counterbalance to Cruise's character, and their interactions form the film's core. T
he film's plot, which unfolds in real-time, is well-constructed and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. It explores themes of morality, fate, and the consequences of one's choices, adding depth to the suspenseful narrative.
However, some viewers might find the film's pacing slow at times, particularly in the first act, as it takes its time to set up the characters and their situations.
8. A Life of Speed: The Juan Manuel Fangio Story
- Release Date: 2020
- Rating: 10+
- Play Time: 1H 32M
Released in 2020, "A Life of Speed: The Juan Manuel Fangio Story" is a documentary film that pays tribute to the legendary Argentine racing driver Juan Manuel Fangio, the man often regarded as one of the greatest Formula One drivers of all time.
While not an action genre, per se, The Juan Manuel Fangio Story has the ingredients to trigger a similar level of brain circuitry responsible for “the highly motivating and soothing pleasure” of watching action thrillers.
One of the documentary's strengths is its comprehensive exploration of Fangio's life and career. It provides a detailed and insightful look into his upbringing, early racing experiences, and journey to becoming a five-time Formula One World Champion.
The film also delves into the challenges and risks of racing during Fangio's era, effectively adding historical context to his achievements. The documentary features interviews with several notable figures in the world of motorsport.
These interviews offer valuable insights and anecdotes about Fangio's impact on the sport and, combined with archival footage and photographs, create a well-rounded portrait of the racing legend.
However, some viewers may find that the documentary leans heavily on admiration and reverence for Fangio, potentially lacking in critical analysis or exploration of any controversies or flaws in his career or personal life. Additionally, while it provides a thorough overview of his racing achievements, the film might feel shallow by failing to dive deeply into the man behind the wheel.
9. Fugitive: The Curious Case of Carlos Ghosn
- Release Date: 2022
- Rating: 13+
- Play Time: 1H 35M
The 2022 documentary "Fugitive: The Curious Case of Carlos Ghosn" promises an in-depth exploration of the incredible rise and dramatic fall of Carlos Ghosn, the former chairman and CEO of the Renault-Nissan Alliance.
With its exclusive access to key players and gripping storytelling, Lucy Blakstad's documentary chronicles the intriguing journey of this Lebanese-Brazilian engineer who ascended from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of the automotive industry.
The documentary dives deep into the internal rivalries and tensions that Ghosn sparked within Nissan-Renault, shedding light on the ambitious decisions, financial intricacies, and quest for glory that defined his tenure.
It offers a front-row seat to the astonishing events surrounding his arrest by Japanese authorities in 2018, as well as his daring escape from Japan in 2019, hidden in a trunk. "Fugitive" utilizes CCTV footage to provide viewers with a step-by-step account of Ghosn's audacious escape. The footage added a layer of intrigue to his already captivating story.
As Ghosn remains a refugee in Lebanon, the documentary poses the central question: What compelled this former master of the universe, whose career path stretched from Beirut to Polytechnique, Michelin to Renault, to rise to the top and ultimately become a pariah?
With Netflix as its platform, the documentary invites viewers to revisit the astonishing journey of Carlos Ghosn, whose life story is as breathtaking as the escape that continues to make headlines.
10. Night Teeth
- Release Date: 2021
- Rating: 16+
- Play Time: 1H 48M
Released in 2021, "Night Teeth" is a supernatural thriller that promises an intriguing blend of vampires, Los Angeles nightlife, and suspense. While the film attempts to infuse a fresh take on the vampire genre, it falls short of fully delivering on its potential.
One of the film's strengths is its stylish cinematography and vibrant depiction of the L.A. nightlife scene. To create an engaging backdrop for the story, the movie succeeded in capturing the city's glitzy and seductive atmosphere. However, "Night Teeth" struggles with pacing and character development.
The plot centered around a chauffeur who becomes entangled with a group of vampires, but takes a while to build momentum. This inadvertently leaves the audience waiting for the action to kick in. Additionally, character motivations and relationships are somewhat underdeveloped.
So, it’s rather challenging to connect with or invest in their fates. While the film offers some visually striking moments and moments of tension, it doesn't quite reach the depth or excitement of other vampire-themed movies or thrillers. The supernatural elements, although intriguing, don't receive the exploration they deserve.