Michael Mann’s Racing Drama Finds New Life on Hulu
Michael Mann’s latest cinematic offering, “Ferrari,” starring Adam Driver as the legendary Enzo Ferrari, may have stumbled at the box office, but it’s now speeding ahead on the streaming circuit. Despite a lacklustre theatrical run that saw the film pocket just $42.3 million globally, the racing drama has roared into the streaming scene, capturing audiences’ attention and climbing to the eighth spot on Reelgood’s streaming chart for the week of May 23 – 29.
The movie, chronicling Ferrari’s life in 1957 amidst the backdrop of the tragic Mille Miglia race, has found a home on Hulu, attracting viewers and surpassing other streaming heavyweights like “Oppenheimer” and “Dune: Part One.” However, it fell short of claiming the top position, with “Dune: Part Two” reigning supreme.
Theatrical Performance Disappointment
Despite the star power of Adam Driver and the seasoned direction of Michael Mann, “Ferrari” struggled to rev its engine at the box office. With an estimated budget of £95 million, the film fell short of expectations, failing to recoup its production costs. According to industry standards, “Ferrari” would have needed to cross the £237 million mark to break even, factoring in budgetary expenses, distribution costs, theatre shares, and marketing expenditures.
While critical reception wasn’t the issue, with the film earning mostly positive reviews, its commercial performance left much to be desired. Michael Mann, renowned for cinematic gems like “Heat” and “Collateral,” couldn’t quite replicate his previous successes with this venture.
Finding Redemption on Streaming
However, all is not lost for “Ferrari.” The Reelgood chart paints a more optimistic picture, suggesting that the film is experiencing a resurgence in popularity among streaming audiences. Boasting a commendable Rotten Tomatoes score of 72% and an even higher audience score of 74%, “Ferrari” seems to be winning over viewers in the comfort of their homes.
The allure of the film lies in its gripping racing sequences and poignant portrayal of the Mille Miglia accident, offering an adrenaline-fuelled ride for enthusiasts and casual viewers alike. While its theatrical fate may have been underwhelming, the accessibility of streaming platforms has provided “Ferrari” with a second chance to shine.
Future Prospects
As “Ferrari” continues to accelerate in the streaming sphere, its newfound success prompts questions about the evolving landscape of film distribution. With the rise of streaming services and the ongoing debate surrounding theatrical releases versus digital premieres, the journey of “Ferrari” serves as a compelling case study.
Will more films follow suit, finding redemption in the digital realm after faltering on the big screen? Only time will tell. For now, “Ferrari” stands as a testament to the resilience of cinematic artistry and the power of streaming platforms to reshape the narrative of success in the entertainment industry.
