Watch Red Dirt Rising

Red Dirt Rising is an inspirational sports drama set in the 1950s and based on a true story. The film follows the lives of three friends who share a common passion for car racing. Judd (Brad Yoder), a talented and fearless racer, dreams of leaving his small town behind and making it big on the racing circuit. However, lack of sponsorship money and financial support from his family hold him back. His best friend, Lee (Burgess Jenkins), is a mechanic who helps Judd build and maintain his race car. Lee is also married to Judd's sister, Lucky (Ashlee Payne), who shares Judd's love for racing but is often overshadowed by her brother's ambitions.

The third friend, Pruitt (R. Keith Harris), is a wealthy and impulsive businessman who sees potential in Judd's talent and offers to sponsor him. However, his shady dealings and desire for profit threaten to derail Judd's dreams and put his life at risk. Meanwhile, Judd and Lee must navigate their relationship with Lucky, who struggles to balance her loyalty to her husband and her brother.

The film portrays the challenges and obstacles that the characters face, both on and off the track. Judd's determination and skill as a driver are tested when he competes against experienced and better-equipped racers. At the same time, he must confront his own demons and reconcile with his past mistakes. Lee, on the other hand, grapples with the consequences of Pruitt's actions and tries to protect his friend from harm.

Red Dirt Rising also explores the social and cultural context of rural North Carolina in the 1950s. The film addresses issues such as segregation, racism, and poverty, which shape the characters' lives and aspirations. The racial tension in the town is exemplified by the character of Charles (Brett Rice), a local businessman who opposes Judd and Lee's alliance with Pruitt and views them as a threat to his dominance. Through their interactions with Charles and other characters, the protagonists learn to challenge their own prejudices and find common ground.

The film's cinematography and soundtrack capture the energy and excitement of car racing while also conveying the characters' emotional journeys. The racing scenes are expertly choreographed and edited, providing a visceral and thrilling experience for the viewer. The soundtrack features a mix of old-school rock and roll and country music, evoking the atmosphere of the era and enhancing the film's emotional resonance.

Overall, Red Dirt Rising is a compelling and uplifting story of friendship, perseverance, and triumph over adversity. It celebrates the spirit of individualism and passion for excellence that defines American car culture while also addressing important social issues. The film's excellent performances, direction, and production values make it a must-watch for fans of sports dramas and inspirational tales.

Red Dirt Rising is a 2017 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.0.