Grand Prix (1966 Film)

Grand Prix (1966 film)

Grand Prix is a 1966 American action film with an international cast. The picture was directed by John Frankenheimer with music by Maurice Jarre and stars James Garner, Eva Marie Saint, Yves Montand, Brian Bedford, and Antonio Sabàto. Toshirô Mifune has a supporting role as a race team owner, inspired by Soichiro Honda. The picture was photographed in Super Panavision 70 by Lionel Lindon, and presented in 70 mm Cinerama in premiere engagements.

Its unique racing cinematography – in part credited to Saul Bass – is one of the main draws of the film. The film includes real-life racing footage and cameo appearances by drivers including F1 World Champions Phil Hill, Graham Hill, Juan-Manuel Fangio, Jim Clark, Jochen Rindt and Jack Brabham. Other drivers who appeared in the film include Dan Gurney, Richie Ginther, Jo Bonnier and Bruce McLaren.

One of the ten highest grossing films of 1966, Grand Prix won three Academy Awards for its technical achievements. The film was released on DVD and HD DVD on July 11, 2006, and on Blu-ray Disc in May 2011.