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Hurley

Where to Watch Hurley

2019

Hurley is a 2019 documentary film that meticulously traces the life of the five-time Le Mans winner, Hurley Haywood, one of the world's revered and victorious professional racing drivers. The groundbreaking film features insightful interviews with Haywood himself and various influential figures in his life. Narrated by the television and film actor Patrick Dempsey, also an accomplished racing driver and enthusiast, the documentary takes viewers into the life of Haywood with candor and bracing realism.

The documentary, directed by Derek Dodge, unfolds against the backdrop of the 1970s, a time of evolution and tumult in many aspects of American society. It commences with heart-stopping snapshots of Haywood's early beginnings in auto racing, gently leading the viewers into the grit, unyielding determination, and relentless pursuit of victory that defined Haywood's career. The film captures Barb Haywood's young son's fascination with speed and his journey into professional auto racing as he begins to navigate the speedways with palpable intensity and determination.

During an era when motorsport was considered a territory primarily for straight males, Haywood’s double life is highlighted. He is shown presenting the expected machismo persona on the racing tracks, while quietly battling his true identity as a gay man off the track. Surviving in an industry that was, at the time, dismissive and discourteous to the LGBTQ+ community, Hurley Haywood's untold story explores his struggles with identity and the masks he was compelled to wear in order to balance his personal life and professional identity.

The viewers get a glimpse of Hurley’s ascension from a sports car prodigy to an international racing icon, along with his battles, both on and off the race track. The narrative is punctuated by talking-head interviews with the icon himself. He discusses his career challenges, his personal struggles with acceptance and identity, the pressures of society's expectations, and the dangers and excitement that come with a life on the swift, adrenaline-fueled lanes of professional auto racing.

While the film examines Hurley Haywood's racing career and his status as a legendary figure in motorsport, it also puts a prominent spotlight on his personal life. This includes his longtime relationship with Peter Gregg, a fellow race car driver and close friend. Their companionship, both on and off the race track, forms the emotional core of the documentary, subtly illustrating a complex human relationship in the macho, high-speed world of professional racing.

Casting a broader cinematic net, the documentary presents an unflinching eye into the world of racing during its golden era. It comprises archival footage from Haywood's numerous races, revealing the unvarnished truth of the volatile, dangerous, and high-stakes world of auto-racing. Action-packed racing sequences and dramatic on-track incidents effectively capture the inherent risk and thrill associated with the sport in an era with less safety technology.

Arguably, one of the documentary's most significant strengths is in its candid portrayal of Haywood's decision to openly discuss his sexuality. This poignant narrative thread lends an emotional depth to Haywood's story, providing viewers with a different perspective of the man and the mystique behind one of auto-racing’s biggest icons.

Patrick Dempsey, whose link to the racing world extends beyond just casual interest — being a professional race car driver himself, photographs and produces, effortlessly providing the narrative voiceover for the intense and intimate storytelling. Dempsey's engaging and empathetic narration complements the core message of the documentary, relating an awe-inspiring tale of resilience and acceptance.

In conclusion, Hurley, the movie, is a steady-paced and respectful tribute to one of sport's most prolific, yet modest figures. It’s a gripping, unfiltered portrait of Haywood's life, retold through his eyes and experiences. The documentary successfully balances his career and personal achievements, situating him as a deeply-respected figure for his efforts in pushing boundaries and breaking down barriers, both on and off the race track.

Hurley is a Documentary movie released in 2019. It has a runtime of 84 Critics and viewers have rated it moderate reviews, with an IMDb score of 7.4..

How to Watch Hurley

Where can I stream Hurley movie online? Hurley is available to watch and stream, buy on demand, download at Amazon Prime, Crackle, Plex, The Roku Channel Free, Pluto TV, Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play, YouTube VOD, Vudu. Some platforms allow you to rent Hurley for a limited time or purchase the movie for downloading.

7.4/10
Director
Derek Dodge
Stars
Hurley Haywood, Patrick Dempsey