Love The Beast

Released in 2009, Love The Beast is a fascinating exploration of the profound love between a man and his car. The documentary drama features the life of reowned Hollywood actor Eric Bana and his unadulterated passion for his first car, a Ford XB Falcon – named The Beast. The Australian film directed by Eric Bana himself, who makes his directorial debut while also starring as the main subject, captures the primal connection between automobiles and the intrinsic human emotion of love.

The movie unfolds in an original and entertaining narrative style, blending interview segments with real-time race footage, scenes from Bana's automotive endeavors, and a wealth of archival materials. Meanwhile, lingering shots of 'The Beast' will induce a sense of awe in viewers, especially car lovers. The film shows Bana's relationship with the car he purchased at the age of 15 and how, despite now being a Hollywood star, he still cherishes it. His attachment to the car is undoubtedly the heart of Love The Beast.

The narrative threads a three-decade-long journey that has extended beyond Bana's love for cars. The film turns into a reflection of Australian car culture, an exploration of the masculine bond, and a tribute to enduring friendships. The pivotal point in the film comes when Bana decides to restore his beloved automobile and enter it into one of the deadliest car races in the world - the Targa Tasmania. The resulting events, leading up to the race, during it, and afterward, are gripping and leave one on the edge of their seat.

More surprisingly, the film which runs around the corners of the automotive world and friendship, takes the time to delve into the psychological aspects of Bana's relationship with his iconic vehicle. Developing insights are drawn from Bana's chats with his lifelong friends, who are also car enthusiasts. They discuss their earliest memories, share the thrills and fears they have experienced and weigh up why the risks involved fascinate them so much.

Where Love The Beast shines is in its raw and naked depiction of the intensity of passion and dedication. Bana's devotion for his vehicle is touching; it's clear from the emotional gravity he displays that his bond with 'The Beast' is profound. His respect for the machine's power and speed is palpable, making it evident that for Bana, the love for his car is much more than a hobby. It's an integral part of who he is.

The film is a lot more than just a documentary about a car. It encapsulates a unique reality that showcases the deep bond between a man and his machine. The film explores themes of friendship, passion, challenge, and the inherent human instinct to push physical and emotional boundaries.

Interspersed throughout the narrative are interviews including those from bigwig figures in the motoring world, such as former Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson and legendary American motor journalist Dr. Phil McGraw, proving an insight into the passion shared by other enthusiasts. These figures provide a more in-depth exploration into automotive love and invite the audience to better understand this infatuation from an outside perspective.

Additionally, Steve Coad, Bana's best friend and race partner, features prominently, primarily during the race sections of the film. His role together with Bana presents a raw, relatable depiction of a lifelong bond that has grown around automobiles.

Overall, Love The Beast is a compelling and intimate look into a not often discussed aspect of car culture. It's less about the love of a car per se, and more about the emotional bonds we forge with items that have personal significance. With its distinguished star-studded cast and incredible narrative, the film is an extraordinary tribute to a passion that sparks joy and defines identities. Bana proves as deft a director as he is an actor, and his love letter to car culture is a must-see for automobile enthusiasts and movie lovers alike.