Le Mans - Race of Death
The disaster that took place at the 24 Hours of Le Mans race on 11 June 1955 is a date that has been burned into our collective memories, with repercussions far beyond the world of motorsports.
Motor racing fascinates millions of people all over the world and the premier league of motor sport is Formula 1. Its icons were legends in their own time and are still revered today. They pushed their machines and themselves “to the limit” and became world champions. But a great number of these daredevils died on the race track or suffered devastating accidents. The documentary departs from everyday motor racing coverage to personal portraits by concentrating on a few greats and presenting them as individuals.
As a consequence of racing driver Pierre Levegh's accident with his Mercedes «Silver Arrow» more than 80 people died, with over 100 further casualties. Thanks to a recently rediscovered amateur film reel of the event, the timeline of the accident could be reconstructed beyond the shadow of a doubt. Our film shows the events that preceded this and its consequences, allowing a valuable insight into the historical background of Germany's preoccupation with and passion for motor sports.
Facts
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Original TitleApokalypse in Le Mans – Das Rennen in den Tod
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Year2011
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Length52' (GER, FRE)
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ResolutionHD
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Film byThomas Ammann
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Produced by