This is Ferrari like you’ve never seen it before (warning: spoilers ahead)
21 December 2023
In the summer of 1957, Enzo Ferrari’s world is not one of wealth. The former driver is in a battle far greater and longer than any race he’s won before. Ferrari is on the verge of going out of business, and his marriage is in flux while competition has never been fiercer. From his Italian hometown of Modena, he must build a team that will take Ferrari across 1,000 miles of brutal, treacherous open-road racing to the top of the podium at the 1957 Mille Miglia. Pushing his drivers, his relationships, and himself to the limit, only this win can save Ferrari.
Authenticity in Filming
The movie is shot almost entirely in Modena, Brescia, Maranello, and Reggio Emilia, utilizing sweeping roads that curl around the stunning Gran Sasso d’Italia mountains. The goal throughout was to present an authentic portrayal of Ferrari, and Enzo himself, during this pivotal year.
Insights from the Location Manager
Janice Polley, the supervising location manager for Ferrari, collaborated with director Michael Mann to make the film’s locations as authentic as possible. Known for her work on critically acclaimed films such as Heat and Pirates of the Caribbean, Polley shares how she recreated Italy’s infamous Mille Miglia on some of the region’s most remarkable roads.
Authenticity of Locations
Polley: “They were very authentic, yes. I aimed to keep everything as real as it was in 1957. Luckily, several locations still exist today, such as the barbershop and Enzo’s home in Modena. Michael wanted those locations to reflect Enzo’s habitual life. One challenge was finding a specific farmhouse that matched Michael’s vision for a downhill driveway with Cypress trees. After much effort in searching, we ultimately found the perfect spot.”
Translating Authenticity onto Film
“The authenticity translated beautifully into the film. It encapsulated who Ferrari was and what his environment looked like. Michael insisted that Ferrari’s life at the time was not one of wealth; hence, we focused on smaller locations rather than grandiose settings.”
Challenges in Finding Locations
Polley encountered various challenges while scouting for locations. The road where De Portago had an accident was particularly hard to find due to it being a busy two-lane highway now. However, Michael’s vision for light streaming through trees helped emphasize the dramatic scene and the atmosphere of the film.
The Emotional Impact of Key Scenes
During the filming of emotionally charged scenes, such as the tragic crash of driver De Portago, the entire team felt the intensity. “Michael’s filmmaking techniques, combined with the extraordinary scenery, truly elevated the drama,” said Polley.
Exploring the Mille Miglia Route
The Mille Miglia race laid the foundation for some of the movie’s most beautiful and exhilarating scenes. Through an original 1957 map, the team mapped the route over a modern map while scouting from a helicopter, ensuring they showcased the magnificent landscapes of Italy.
Italian Road-Trip Suggestions
There are many stunning roads between Modena, Marinello, and Reggio Emilia captured in the film. For those looking to experience such drives, scenic routes along the coast and through the mountainous landscapes of the Campo Imperatore offer breathtaking views and exhilarating experiences.
Community Connection in Modena
Polley emphasized the profound sense of community in Modena. “Every interaction I had while scouting locations reflected Ferrari’s significance in the region. The locals embrace their history with Enzo, which is evident in the warmth and pride they show.”
The Culinary Delights of Modena
On a lighter note, Polley enjoyed the regional cuisine immensely. “I indulged in so much tortellini during my time. Every Saturday, I frequented a local restaurant that was a crew favorite, often sharing meals with locals who regaled us with stories about their connections to Enzo.”
