Speed Racer

Right now you can watch Speed Racer in Australia on Amazon Prime Video and Stan — and it is funnier than its reputation suggests. A tight runtime that never overstays its welcome. 1,801 people have weighed in on TMDB, and the verdict leans heavily positive. Emile Hirsch sets the tone, and the rest of the cast matches it scene for scene. Put it on tonight on Amazon Prime Video and see for yourself.

Part of the current wave of titles people are actually watching, Speed Racer earns its spot. Sharp writing and a well-matched ensemble are what separate Speed Racer from the crowd. Speed Racer is a young and brilliant racing driver. When corruption in the racing leagues costs his brother his life, Speed must team up with the police and the mysterious Racer X to bring an end to the corruption and criminal activities. Emile Hirsch and Christina Ricci lead a cast with the timing to make it work. It hit screens in 2008. The timing in Speed Racer is precise enough that even the throwaway lines land on a second watch. There is real craft here, even in the moments that do not fully land.

For viewers who want something light without wanting something stupid, Speed Racer respects your intelligence. It stands on its own even without an obvious comparison point. The complete film is available and best experienced without too much prior knowledge of where it goes. Emile Hirsch anchors an ensemble with real chemistry. Genuinely funny, consistently, across the whole run.