The Gentleman Driver

The Gentleman Driver (2018) is an enthralling documentary film directed by Mario Mattei. It offers an astonishing exploration of the lives of four extraordinarily successful businessmen who moonlight as race car drivers at the top level of sports-car racing. The key cast, Ed Brown, Ricardo Gonzalez, Michael Guasch, and Paul Dalalana, are not professional racers. However, they skillfully handle the demands and pressures of the exhilarating, and sometimes brutal, world of car racing.

Ed Brown, Co-Founder of Patron Spirits, tequila mogul, and CEO of Patron Tequila, is one of the four "gentleman drivers". The film introduces us to Brown's enthusiastic personality as he balances his hectic business life with his impressive performance at international car racing. His journey in the film corroborates the inconceivable challenges encountered by these gentlemen and how they conform impeccable spirit to overcome them.

Ricardo Gonzalez, Mexican entrepreneur and sportsman, further embellishes the story with his commendable achievements in both his business world and racing circuit. Through the film, we get a glimpse of the fire that fuels him to succeed in both these contrasting arenas.

American racing driver Michael Guasch brings forth a different flavor with his natural talent and insatiable interest in speed. He juggles his role as a business tycoon with a strong presence in the racing world, demonstrating his resilience and ability to thrive under pressure.

Finally, successful Canadian businessman Paul Dalalana adds depth and personality to the narrative. His indomitable zeal for perfection is evident in his thriving business as well as his passionate participation in the racetrack.

This captivating documentary unveils the stories behind these "gentleman drivers", documenting the lives they lead on weekdays as businessmen and the thrill-seeking adrenaline junkies they transform into on weekends. It reflects on the dichotomy of lifestyles, the tireless dedication, the preparation, training, and sheer grit these gentlemen display in both aspects of their lives. Interestingly, the plot delves into the worlds of business and racing, uncovering the similarities and differences that influence the driver's approach to success. It is a compelling look at their dual lifestyles, highlighting the balancing act demanded by their individual commitments.

The viewers are introduced to high-octane, high-stakes sports, thoroughly filled with unprecedented challenges and risks. The sense of fulfillment that the racers find on the track is mirrored in their boardrooms, while their ruthless competitive drive is reflected in both the business and racing arenas.

The Gentleman Driver is not just about car racing; it is about human passion, dedication, perseverance, and the pursuit of extreme excitement. It presents a thrilling anecdote about men who refuse to be boxed into one category. Their drive to indulge in cosmopolitan lifestyles and triumphing in both their professional and personal pursuits is inspiring. The film portrays them as 'gentlemen drivers', men imbued with a unique spirit of passion, zeal, and dedication.

Director Mario Mattei has done an outstanding job of capturing these fascinating lives with an unfiltered, yet empathetic lens. It is a flesh-and-blood portrayal of their road to becoming global entrepreneurs and race car drivers, touching upon their personal challenges, victories, and defeats.

The Gentleman Driver, though a documentary, narrates a fascinating story replete with exhilarating car races, personal anecdotes, behind-the-scenes scenarios, high-speed crashes, and a deep dive into the hearts and minds of these exceptional gentlemen. It successfully strikes a perfect balance between the glamour of the racing world and the reality of the people who live and breathe it, painting a picture that is as inspiring as it is relatable. It is a must-watch for all race car enthusiasts and people who see no boundaries when it comes to chasing their dreams.