Neon Buys Michael Mann’s ‘Ferrari,’ Racing Drama With Adam Driver Will Open in 2023

Neon has secured the rights to “Ferrari,” the upcoming film by Michael Mann. The drama is set to be released in theaters across the country on Christmas Day. Starring Adam Driver as Enzo Ferrari and Penélope Cruz as his wife, Laura Ferrari, it marks Mann’s first film since 2015’s “Blackhat.”

Neon has acquired the rights to “Ferrari,” the upcoming film directed by Michael Mann, and is set to release it in theaters nationwide on Christmas Day. The film marks Mann’s return since his 2015 movie “Blackhat” and features Adam Driver in the role of Enzo Ferrari and Penélope Cruz as his wife, Laura Ferrari.

Joining the cast are Shailene Woodley, Jack O’Connell, Sarah Gadon, Patrick Dempsey, and Gabriel Leone. The film is set in the summer of 1957 and revolves around Enzo Ferrari, who faces the potential bankruptcy of his company, a tumultuous marriage, and the tragic loss of his son. In the midst of these challenges, Ferrari takes a significant risk by betting everything on a single race—the legendary 1,000-mile journey across Italy known as the Mille Miglia.

The film promises an immersive exploration of Enzo Ferrari’s life, delving into his personal struggles and the pivotal events that shaped his legacy. With a talented ensemble cast and a backdrop of intense emotional stakes, “Ferrari” offers a captivating cinematic experience that combines drama, history, and the pursuit of triumph.

Neon’s acquisition of “Ferrari” underscores their commitment to supporting innovative and visionary filmmaking. The anticipation surrounding Michael Mann’s latest project, coupled with its notable cast and compelling storyline, sets the stage for an exciting and highly anticipated release on Christmas Day.

Neon founder Tom Quinn expressed his admiration for Michael Mann, describing him as one of the most innovative and influential filmmakers in American cinema. Quinn highlighted Mann’s unwavering dedication and persistence in bringing the intensely dramatic story of “Ferrari” to the big screen. He emphasized that working with Mann on this project is a dream come true for Neon and reinforces the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting visionary auteurs who challenge the boundaries of cinema. The partnership with Mann and the acquisition of “Ferrari” further solidify Neon’s dedication to bringing exceptional and groundbreaking films to audiences.

Michael Mann is widely recognized as a highly esteemed filmmaker in the industry, known for his contributions to cinema with acclaimed movies such as “Heat,” “The Insider,” and “The Last of the Mohicans.” While his earlier works have garnered critical acclaim and achieved success at the box office, his more recent films, including “Blackhat,” “Miami Vice,” and “Public Enemies,” faced challenges in meeting commercial expectations.

Despite these box office setbacks, the upcoming film “Ferrari” has attracted attention from several studios who see its potential as an Oscar contender. The allure of the film’s intensely dramatic story, combined with Mann’s directorial prowess and the notable cast, has sparked interest in its potential awards prospects.

The film industry recognizes that the success of a filmmaker’s previous projects does not necessarily dictate the outcome of their future works. With Mann’s established track record of creating cinematic classics and pushing creative boundaries, there is anticipation surrounding “Ferrari” as a film that could resonate with audiences and award voters alike.

The interest from studios and the belief that “Ferrari” could become an Oscar contender reflects the industry’s recognition of Mann’s talent and the potential of this particular project to captivate audiences and receive critical acclaim.

The negotiation for the acquisition of “Ferrari” by Neon was handled by Dan Friedkin, Ryan Friedkin, and Tom Quinn. They represented Neon in the deal, while CAA Media Finance and attorney Harold Brown of Gang Tyre Ramer & Brown negotiated on behalf of Michael Mann. Neon, known for its notable releases such as the Oscar-winning “Parasite” and the Oscar-nominated “Triangle of Sadness,” has established itself as a prominent player in the film industry. The involvement of experienced professionals from both sides of the negotiation highlights the significance and potential of “Ferrari” as a highly anticipated film project.