Documentaries

Weekend of a Champion

Frank Simon
FRA, GBR 1972, 2012
93 min
V'13

In May 1971, Roman Polanski went to Monaco with documentarian Frank Simon to shadow the world’s greatest Formula One racer, Jackie Stewart. The resulting film was praised by racing enthusiasts but considered too specialised for wide release. It disappeared from view and became an elusive grail for fans of Polanski and Stewart alike. When Polanski learned that the negative was going to be destroyed he decided to salvage it by heading up a restoration, including some 15 minutes of modern-day footage. “Shooting on 16mm, Simon follows Stewart closely, taking us into the driving seat with him in several sequences – using on-board cameras to shoot over Stewart’s shoulder as he drives through heavy rain, or to give us what amounts to a masterclass as Stewart takes Polanski for a spin, explaining in detail how he shifts gears to negotiate the curves of the Monaco track.” (Jonathan Romney)

In the presence of Sir Jackie Stewart, Lady Helen Stewart and Mark Stewart.

Credits
  • Roman Polanski
  • Jackie Stewart
  • Helen Stewart
  • Frank Simon
  • Bill Brayne
  • Pawel Edelman
  • Maurice Askew
  • Hervé de Luze
  • Shawn Tracey
  • Derek York
RP Productions, Mark Stewart Productions

Pathé International

Arsenal Filmverleih
DCP
bwcol
Related Movies