Once Upon a Wheel

Once Upon a Wheel is a 1971 documentary film that chronicles the history of car racing, featuring some of the most famous drivers of the time. The film is narrated by Paul Newman and combines interviews, footage of races, and behind-the-scenes moments in a way that is both informative and entertaining.

The documentary opens with a montage of images from various car races, ranging from early speed trials on dusty tracks to modern Formula One races. Newman's narration sets the tone for the film, explaining that car racing is more than just a sport; it's a way of life for those involved. We then meet Mario Andretti, one of the most successful drivers of all time, who provides some insights into what it takes to be a great driver.

The film jumps back in time to explore the origins of car racing, including the first automobile race in 1894 between Paris and Rouen. We see vintage footage of early races, including the famous Vanderbilt Cup races held on Long Island in the early 20th century. The film goes on to explore the rise of NASCAR and the evolution of stock car racing, which was still a relatively new phenomenon in the early 1970s.

One of the most fascinating sections of the film is its examination of the relationship between racing and technology. We see how advances in materials science and engineering have allowed cars to go faster and become more aerodynamic. The film also explains how new safety features have been developed to protect drivers from crashes, including the HANS device, which was still a relatively new innovation at the time.

As well as exploring the technical innovations that have helped to shape car racing, the film also looks at some of the personalities involved in the sport. We meet drivers like Dan Gurney, Jim Clark, and Jackie Stewart, who provide insights into what it takes to succeed at the highest level. We also see the role that the press and the media play in hyping up the drama of races, and how important sponsorship deals are in funding teams.

The documentary is not just about the big names in racing though. We see some of the unsung heroes who work behind the scenes, from mechanics to tire changers, and who are every bit as important to the success of a racing team as the drivers themselves. There's a sense of camaraderie and teamwork that runs through the whole film, which makes it a fascinating insight into the culture of racing.

The film also explores some of the social and political issues around car racing. We see how racing has been associated with the American dream, with drivers like Richard Petty coming from humble backgrounds and becoming national heroes. But we also see how the industry has been riven by tensions over race and gender, and the documentary asks some difficult questions about the role of women and minorities in the sport.

Overall, Once Upon a Wheel is a comprehensive and engaging documentary that will appeal to anyone with an interest in car racing, its history, and its culture. The film moves seamlessly between interviews and race footage, and the narration by Paul Newman is both informative and entertaining. It's a must-watch for anyone who loves cars or who is interested in the history of American sport.