Speed Racer (Emile Hirsch) is the guy we meet first, his Dad (John Goodman) runs an independent racing team and Speed has been wanting to become a race car driver ever since he was little. His mum (Susan Sarandon), younger brother Spritle, pet monkey Chim-Chim and girlfriend Trixie (Christina Ricci) all know about Speed’s lust for racing and although they don’t always show it, they all fully support him.

Things take a turn though when the head of the giant Royalton Corporation tries to persuade Speed Racer to pull out of his fathers racing team and sign a contract with them. Speed now has a big decision to make as to whether to go for the big time or stick with the family business as it looks like this corporation wont take no for an answer.

The essence of the animated series has been captured magnificently in this film. From the colourful city backdrops and clothing to the hyper stylised motor racing on the dangerous racetracks, the Wachowski brothers have done full justice to this classic show.

Although aimed at a slightly younger audience I’m pretty confident that this will be enjoyed by anyone who watches it. The martial arts sequences, the high speed stunts and the likeability of the characters all make this something that absolutely cannot be missed.

Category: Action/Adventure > General
Director: Andy Wachowski
Starring: Hiroyuki Sanada , Christina Ricci , John Goodman , Kick Gurry , Ji Moon Jung , Roger Allam , Paulie Litt , Matthew Fox , Richard Roundtree , Susan Sarandon