I avoided this “critic darling.” Seems like the lower end of the nominee spectrum.

That said, this doesn’t mandate the dreaded slot on the back burner.

At just a nose past two hours, the pacing’s fast and smooth. In fact, it’s one of the film’s strengths.

Gravity’s place in the Best Picture nominee list is nothing short of laughable. Captain Phillips and her certainly deserve the accolade — however, Rush is better than both of these films.

Chris Hemsworth as James Hunt and Daniel Brühl as the rat-faced Niki Lauda turn in exceptional performances.

Who doesn’t love Sir Chemsworth?

Admittedly, the hospital sequence with Brühl is the slowest portion of the movie. Even so, it doesn’t last too long.

The only time it got dusty for me was because his wife (Alexandra Maria Lara) seemed to be having a tough time of it. As a result, I felt for her. Boy oh boy did I feel for that fantastic character.

Go ahead, call me a “softy.”

Two of the major themes? Athleticism and assholes.

I’ll never tire of seeing movies with an R-rating. In this case, it’s a fine example of nudity solely adding to the overall viewing experience.

(Censorship’s the bane of society’s existence.)

Meanwhile, Olivia Wilde as Suzy Miller is a bit of all right in this film. She glazes over Hunt’s infidelity quite quickly, yes yes? Nonetheless, I like her depiction of a strong woman in an unviolent yet strained relationship.

(This illustrates a well-executed, subtle and original character flaw for Hunt. James and Suzy have a magnificent argument midway through.)

Did I mention Hemsworth’s performance? It’s spectacular.

Olivia’s furiously ascending the ladder of this reviewer’s favorite thespians. She solely delights. And I first noticed her in Cowboys & Aliens, which was a hundred times better than anyone wants to give it credit for. Not since Sharon Stone has there been such a great Lady Gunslinger!

I’m not sure what else to say about this movie because it’s just so spectacularly shot, written, and edited. Rush is a visual masterpiece with compelling characters and spectacular direction.

The tension’s high. The acting’s great. The story’s enjoyable, informative and fun. In short, what more do you need?

Bottom line: see this film.

★★★ ★★★ ★★★

Briefer takes on IMDb & Letterboxd. Or check F1 for more racing.