Yves Montand
Number 17, the Ferrari of Jean-Pierre Sarti, is still in front...
Yves Montand was an Italian-French actor and singer. He began a career in show business as a music-hall singer. Montand went on to international recognition as a singer and actor, starring in numerous films. His recognizably crooner songs, especially those about Paris, became instant classics. During his career, Montand acted in a number of American motion pictures as well as on Broadway.
He was nominated for a César Award for "Best Actor" in 1980 for I comme Icare and again in 1984 for Garçon! In 1986, after his international box-office draw power had fallen off considerably, the 65-year-old Montand gave one of his most memorable performances, as the scheming uncle in the two-part film Jean de Florette, co-starring Gérard Depardieu, and Manon des Sources, co-starring Emmanuelle Béart. The film was a worldwide critical hit
Jean-Pierre Sarti
Montand plays the part of Jean-Pierre Sarti, a two times world champion who is approaching the end of his career, and who has become increasingly cynical, and disillusioned with racing.
Sarti wins the first two races of the season, making him the clear leader in the World Championship. However his increasing disenchantment with the sport, his recognition of it's dangers, and an affair with American journalist Louise Frederickson, all seem to have an effect on his form as the season wears on
Even his team manager begins to doubt his commitment and ability. Sarti struggles for pace in the middle of the season, and heads into the final Grand Prix, still in contention, but also under pressure.
I've begun to see the absurdity of it. All of us. Proving what? That we can go faster? And perhaps remain alive?