Fremantle’s latest documentary “Luca: Seeing Red” explores the life of former Ferrari chairman Luca di Montezemolo, extending beyond just the Ferrari narrative.
“There were a few stipulations. First, it won’t solely focus on Ferrari. Second, it will not be a work of fiction; we want to showcase real figures like Kimi Räikkönen rather than actors in their roles. Third, it will not delve into my personal life,” di Montezemolo revealed to Variety at Cannes.
“For enthusiasts of racing and automobiles, all will be revealed. Icons like Enzo Ferrari and Michael Schumacher, along with the tragic accident of Niki Lauda, are included, but this film also celebrates Italy itself.”
The documentary also highlights di Montezemolo’s diverse ventures—ranging from the establishment of yacht racing team Azzurra, which became so renowned that people began naming their daughters after it, to helping launch the train transport service Italo and orchestrating a final concert with the legendary Three Tenors.
“Convincing Pavarotti was no easy feat. He quipped, ‘Why must I share the stage with these other two? I can perform solo,’” he chuckled, reminiscing about the collaboration that brought Pavarotti together with Plácido Domingo and José Carreras.
“This film has afforded me the chance to reflect on my various endeavors.”
Joined by “Top Gear’s” Chris Harris, di Montezemolo reflects on his remarkable journey beginning in the 1970s when Enzo Ferrari employed him as an assistant.
“I was just 25, yet I have always been inclined to take risks and be at the forefront. While I’ve achieved 19 Formula One titles, I recognize the hard work that goes into those triumphs. It’s crucial to assemble the right team and have clear objectives, but I feel fortunate to have art, family, and friends in my life. Besides good health, these are my utmost priorities.”
The film, which was pitched to buyers at Mipcom, presents “a captivating blend of archival and contemporary footage,” with plenty of glamour evident throughout.
“Ferrari embodies a myth,” di Montezemolo stated fervently.
“Even Räikkönen, upon beginning his racing career with Sauber and McLaren, mentioned Ferrari as his ultimate dream [he clinched the Formula One World Championship in 2007 while driving for the team]. The documentary features a stunning visual of a red Ferrari in Bologna’s Piazza delle Sette Chiese. We aim to present a unique perspective of Italy beyond just the typical images of Florence, Venice, and Rome.”
Director Manish Pandey, known for the acclaimed “Senna,” expressed: “This film centers on two core themes—Italy as the backdrop, but more importantly, loyalty and family. These concepts intertwine through every frame. A pivotal line at the conclusion reads, ‘Aside from my family, Ferrari is the most significant aspect of my life.’”
“To convey this narrative, understanding Luca and Italian culture is paramount. This is why we paired him with Chris, who views Luca as a paternal figure,” he explained, labeling the film’s final act as “crucial.”
“You see Luca consistently agreeing with the Agnelli family [behind Fiat], then being assigned an unthinkable task. This moments marks the point where Chris enters the narrative. For most of the film, he listens, but by the climax, he becomes deeply ingrained in the unfolding drama, a gripping tale of corporate treachery that transpires right in front of you.”
The film has already made its rounds in both Rome and London.
“Clearly, this isn’t a fictional Formula One flick featuring Brad Pitt. However, our theatrical partner, Everyman Cinemas, screened it and were thoroughly impressed. They launched it in 30 theaters with 18 sold-out screenings,” Pandey revealed. In Rome, it was showcased to a select audience at the Parco della Musica Auditorium.
“I was overjoyed that 900 audience members attended because of me, not for some celebrity. I did not expect such a response,” di Montezemolo noted. “Typically in Rome, audiences engage in conversations during screenings, but this time, it was silent.”
