Speed Racer
Warner Bros. Pictures | Release Date: May 9, 2008
7.9
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 485 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
385
Mixed:
38
Negative:
62
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User scoreBy dateMost helpful
8
ijy101Aug 5, 2011
Now while the script is not the best and it seems childish at times, there are other times when it feels intense and the racing action is really good. Also there are some good moments in the script where it manages to be funny or emotional orNow while the script is not the best and it seems childish at times, there are other times when it feels intense and the racing action is really good. Also there are some good moments in the script where it manages to be funny or emotional or whatever its trying to be. It does a really good job at telling the story and sets it up really well. Now I never watched the original anime and I still thought it was pretty good. its main problem is that its not completely made for adults but its not really made for young kids either. unfortunately it doesn't fit either category.… Expand
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6
SpangleOct 2, 2016
Family entertainment on steroids, Speed Racer is a frenetically paced visual extravaganza that elicited a strictly mixed response from me. Often times, the film could best be described as an incredibly rich chocolate cake. For some, theyFamily entertainment on steroids, Speed Racer is a frenetically paced visual extravaganza that elicited a strictly mixed response from me. Often times, the film could best be described as an incredibly rich chocolate cake. For some, they enjoy lots of sugar, especially children, but certainly some adults. Other adults, including myself, get nauseous because something is too sweet. Speed Racer is often times this feel. It may be a family film, but it seemed to pour it on a little thick at times. Telling the story of Speed Racer (Emile Hirsch) and his quest to clean up racing, a sport he was born into, the film is a thoroughly entertaining effort from the Wachowskis that will certainly wow anime fans, action junkies, and children, but for all others, it will be merely diverting entertainment.

An undeniable visual accomplishment, Speed Racer features absolutely killer special effects. When the humans are set against the backdrop of these special effects, it can look quite fake, though that may be intentional. That said, the Caso Cristo 5000 and Grand Prix races are so pretty and incredibly crafted, it is incredible. These sequences, when focused on the race, are tremendous. Yet, these sequences are even held back by the Wachowskis insistence to frequently have jarring cuts to announcers and the crowd with them just talking about Speed Racer kicking everyone's ass. It really kills the mood and does not entertain, but rather annoys. It is a film that has racing obsessed characters, but yet the directors seem wholly uninterested in actually showing racing during the races.

That said, the frenetic pace of the film during the races really adds to the entertainment. Without the racing, this film would be horrifically bad. Without the special effects, this film would be truly hollow, as beneath the surface, Speed Racer offers absolutely nothing. A paper thin plot that is every family movie cliche rolled into one, Speed Racer utilizes cloying sentimentality, stupid flashback montages (especially the one at the end for Racer X), and cliche parent-son conversations to reinforce the image of it being a film about family. If this were at all true, the parents would not be every parent cliche in the book. For example, Pops Racer (John Goodman) is a hard on the outside, but loves his family deeply. He loves car, working on cars, and can be incredibly hard nosed when his wife, Mom Racer (Susan Sarandon), is not around to stop him. Mom Racer, on the other hand, exclusively cooks, serves her husband and sons, and has heart-to-hearts with her son about her pride over him and to help communicate his father's feelings to him. In other words, the characters are walking, talking cliches.

The characters continue to take nosedives in this one with Spritle (Paulie Litt) being wildly annoying. I get there has to be a kid character for kids to relate to a bit, but he is just so annoying it physically hurt. His chimpanzee companion added nothing. No humor, nothing. I think he is from the source material, but could have certainly been left out. It may be a kids movie, but why add a chimp? Do kids just like real life chimps that much? As a former kid, I can attest that this is not the case.

Speed Racer is that hot girl with no personality whatsoever. She may be fun for a while, but when you realize she has no personality worth sticking around for, you realize it may be time to move on. That said, the experience is not completely unredeemable, because hey, she is still hot and you two did have a good time together. However, for anything long-term to really work out, there has be something underneath the surface. Some kind of inner beauty. Unfortunately, Speed Racer offers none of that. Instead, it accepts being nothing but eye candy while being unwilling to offer anything. At the very least, it is better than Jupiter Ascending which, while equally pretty, was plain dumb. Speed Racer is a kids movie, so most stupid moments I can write off for that reason and give it a pass. Overall, stick around for the visuals because they make this one worth a watch.… Expand
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6
FurryEskimoMay 14, 2019
The racing scenes can be a lot of fun, and if the entire film had been of that quality, this whole film would have been between an 8 and 10. It's generally the weird, quirky family and overly dramatic plot, reminiscent of older shows thatThe racing scenes can be a lot of fun, and if the entire film had been of that quality, this whole film would have been between an 8 and 10. It's generally the weird, quirky family and overly dramatic plot, reminiscent of older shows that really hurts this film. Who knew that the dime a dozen shows of the past, hell-bent on selling products didn't have plots that'd hold up in today's more complex film market.
I suggest skipping around to watch the cool races, and try to ignore everything else..… Expand
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4
FranzHcriticOct 29, 2019
I saw this movie such a long time ago, but even before rewatching it, I remembered being bored by the whole spectacle. It has a colorful atmosphere and I can't fault the actors, but it leaves a lot to be desired and it was a sad reminder thatI saw this movie such a long time ago, but even before rewatching it, I remembered being bored by the whole spectacle. It has a colorful atmosphere and I can't fault the actors, but it leaves a lot to be desired and it was a sad reminder that the Wachowski's peeked in 1999 and it's indicative that they've run out of whatever puff and pizzazz they had.… Expand
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4
RayzorMooseNov 15, 2013
Speed Racer slows to a halt.
The film has little to nothing good about it except that at times it can be entertaining. The action feels purposely bad like a 70's cartoon. The acting is poor and the overall direction of the movie is terrible.Speed Racer slows to a halt.
The film has little to nothing good about it except that at times it can be entertaining. The action feels purposely bad like a 70's cartoon. The acting is poor and the overall direction of the movie is terrible. The script has redeeming qualities and seems to have attempted to be a good film, but the execution is atrocious.… Expand
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3
GrabacrJan 7, 2014
I honestly don't see why there are so many good reviews of this. The acting was marginal at best, nothing to brag about. There was a lot of eye candy, sure, but that's more for younger kids, and every attempt it makes at a deeper level isI honestly don't see why there are so many good reviews of this. The acting was marginal at best, nothing to brag about. There was a lot of eye candy, sure, but that's more for younger kids, and every attempt it makes at a deeper level is something we have all seen before and we could all see coming.… Expand
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9
JoltSwangJan 10, 2014
Why is this movie rated so low? The Acting is quirky but good, the effects are bright and colorful and still manage a serious plot line. It's not just about the racing in this which I really like. Although the personalities of a lot of peopleWhy is this movie rated so low? The Acting is quirky but good, the effects are bright and colorful and still manage a serious plot line. It's not just about the racing in this which I really like. Although the personalities of a lot of people are thin they are still fun characters. A lot about this movie is great and I would look forward to a sequel… Expand
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10
lukechristianscJul 19, 2015
WARNING: Don't watch this film if your on LSD! The Wachowski's lustrous epic family adventure is glossy pure fun, filled with three dimensional cartoon imagery that will blow your mind and make your pop corn taste more better. After "TheWARNING: Don't watch this film if your on LSD! The Wachowski's lustrous epic family adventure is glossy pure fun, filled with three dimensional cartoon imagery that will blow your mind and make your pop corn taste more better. After "The Matrix" trilogy the Wachowski's finally return to the big screen,the best they have to offer with the film gives us (some) squeaky clean humor and messages about teamwork, somehow the Wachowski's make a cheesy movie but on the other hand they turned the tables around and make a fun pulp action flick; Speed (Emile Hirsch) who lives with mother (Susan Sarandon), and Pops (John Goodman) also his mischievous little brother Spritle (Paulie Litt) with his little chimp Chim Chim (Kenzie and Wily) -- as well as Speed's mechanic Spark (Kick Gurry) and Speed's girlfriend Trixie (Christina Ricci). Speed idolized his brother Rex Racer (Scott Porter), who died in a fiery car crash. A purple clad industrialist Mr. Royalton (Roger Allam) woos Speed an offer, but Speed turns him down and sticks with Pops, Royalton threatens to destroy all the Racers. A mysterious racer named "Racer X" (Matthew Fox) helps Speed out. The film's an marvelous eye candy it isn't a turn your brain off movie, it just wants to entertain you. Who cares if the Wachowskis neglect the story line who care if the effects hurt your eyes. After watching the film it does actually cause some ripple effects, like The film may have a side effect of eating an entire bowl full of suga. The Wachowski's adaption of a cartoon hit is beautiful. Grade A+… Expand
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4
CineAutoctonoDec 22, 2015
"Speed ​​Racer" the adaptation of an old Japanese series of the 80s , was brutally overflowing of action, but it was too little faith and confidence of the criticisms that had the movie and the Wachowski brothers.
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4
EpicLadySpongeJan 20, 2016
The embarrassing fact how did this get a 8.0 user score makes me want to get rid of users around here. It's not a good film. Don't trust these dumb users here.
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5
SrPepeJul 8, 2018
Tiene muy buenas escenas pero la verdad que es super irrelevante y pasa como cualquier otra.
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10
martinlasoAug 24, 2021
Amazing movie! Feels like a live action anime movie! Great acting, great story.
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7
HatersWannaHateOct 3, 2016
I really liked the ending of this movie. The beginning was solid, even though the CGI race tracks were a little bit out there. I thought Matthew Fox was solid in this film. Everything else about this movie sucked--royally.
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9
BionicMattMay 11, 2018
If you can get past the weak acting, questionable editing and shallow plot, you will be left with something incredible. Gorgeous visual effects, incredible choreographed action sequences and heartfelt ending sequence. You'll be cheering alongIf you can get past the weak acting, questionable editing and shallow plot, you will be left with something incredible. Gorgeous visual effects, incredible choreographed action sequences and heartfelt ending sequence. You'll be cheering along with the crowds.… Expand
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10
hotbarloJan 7, 2018
I created this account just to review Speed Racer.

I watched it in the theaters back in 2008 with my wife, and every couple years we watch it again. It is a movie with heart, a story about a bunch of people who really love each other and,I created this account just to review Speed Racer.

I watched it in the theaters back in 2008 with my wife, and every couple years we watch it again.

It is a movie with heart, a story about a bunch of people who really love each other and, even if the CGI is not aging that well, the plot and the wonderful group of actors who joined this wonderful film make it one of the best ever made.

If you’re reading this after watching the movie I hope it is because you loved it and want to know if people feel the same. They do.… Expand
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10
PageOfWordsMar 3, 2019
Ever since I saw this movie in theaters, it has been my all time favorite film. When someone says "What's you're favorite movie" I say Speed Racer. I cried at the end. I cry every time at the end. I'm 32. I think it's probably the color saturation.
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10
DesfMay 26, 2020
Look l know than this movie, don't deserve a "10"(is more for the nostalgic), there's a lot of cliches,"copy of scenes",bad comedy with a own story than isn't so WOW.

But even with that this film look fun,is interesting see the races,evenLook l know than this movie, don't deserve a "10"(is more for the nostalgic), there's a lot of cliches,"copy of scenes",bad comedy with a own story than isn't so WOW.

But even with that this film look fun,is interesting see the races,even that type of racing be impossible,the story even be not Soo awesome, it's good and enjoyable.

I really wish than a second movie could came out,but with less "a movie for kids" because the jokes and the fights are honestly humiliated A second try wouldn't be Soo terrible.… Expand
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9
HouseTullyNov 8, 2019
I created a Metacritic account to right the wrong of the poor critic rating of Speed Racer. It is perhaps the most criminally underrated film of all time. Speed Racer isn't just a live action adaptation of the classic anime by the same name-I created a Metacritic account to right the wrong of the poor critic rating of Speed Racer. It is perhaps the most criminally underrated film of all time. Speed Racer isn't just a live action adaptation of the classic anime by the same name- it is a masterpiece of experimental filmmaking that features not only some of the most breathtaking visuals to this very day but an oscar winning cast and a superb score. Speed Racer is not a film about racing… or cars… or sidekick chimpanzees. It's a film about passion. It's a film about believing in that passion whatever the cost or others that claim it's not realistic. It's a love letter to any artist, athlete, entrepreneur or kid with a dream. Is it a perfect film? Probably not- but Speed Racer doesn't play it safe. It unapologetically takes risks and presents things in a way unlike any film you've seen before. The filmmakers should be applauded for this, and the critics who can't see it for what it is should retire.… Expand
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10
pagfrareNov 9, 2019
firstily,sorry about my english.This movie is awesome and majority of speed racer's fans are satisfied with it, isn't the original history BUT has a good history
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10
Maxoner22Apr 26, 2021
This is a beautiful movie full of action scenes and emotional moments. Often reviewed as 'unrealistic', but since when did we care so much for 'realistic' movies? Every movie has its bits of charm and this one will surely stay in my heart.
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9
moulin_louisJul 6, 2020
A pure shonen movie with hollywood budget. Very colorful but sometime can affect readability. very endearing character and realy good ending.
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10
wellgroomedratFeb 17, 2021
This movie enthralled me as a kid and still does so today. Ahead of its time in so many ways, this movie will remain in my heart some of the Wachowski Sisters' best work. This truly is a comic book/cartoon come to life. It tells the pure,This movie enthralled me as a kid and still does so today. Ahead of its time in so many ways, this movie will remain in my heart some of the Wachowski Sisters' best work. This truly is a comic book/cartoon come to life. It tells the pure, heartwarming story of artistic expression in a world that only wants to profit from you - whilst maintaining a magical child-like outlook on life.
I hope everyone watches this movie and feels their inner child whoop for joy.… Expand
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8
JakeLeMJun 10, 2021
It’s 2007 and I’ve just finished my magnum opus of sorts, a hand drawn Mach-5 on my brother’s wall covering it from head to toe, that is how much speed racer was loved in my household so it’s no shocker when a live action adaption of theIt’s 2007 and I’ve just finished my magnum opus of sorts, a hand drawn Mach-5 on my brother’s wall covering it from head to toe, that is how much speed racer was loved in my household so it’s no shocker when a live action adaption of the classic anime was coming and by the ladies who did the matrix no less I was stoked to say the least. Given our situation at the time we didn’t go to the theatres as much as I wanted to we relied on family friends to lend us copies of their flicks from time to time. Speed Racer was one of those flicks and boy did it become something me and my brothers would forever cherish. See in the current landscape of film with such photorealism vfx exist it’s no surprise a film that is entirely green screen would turn off some people that feel as though it doesn’t look real. Yet I always back it up because it was intentional folks the Wachowskis wanted this to be like the anime just with real people and for me it works 100 percent, the races are exhilarating the acting is great , the soundtrack slaps , the colors really pop and every moment of this film is pure heart and madness in the best possible way. Mathew Fox is just acting his heart out as if he’s going to get an Oscar and I love him for it. Emilie Hirsch as Speed was perfect casting it was as if he leaped off the anime. I loved seeing him in his classic blue t-and white outfit. It’s too bad how his career went down he should have been a star. The last 40 minutes are one of the most heart pounding intense moments ever put to film for me. Seeing Speed put everything into wining seeing his family and wanting to change the game is inspiring and makes me cheer every time. In another world we would have gotten a bunch of sequels and spin offs. Love you forever Speed-Racer.… Expand
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10
JJ2FAS4UDec 30, 2021
----------------------------------9.6/10-----------------------------------
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7
DhklokMay 22, 2022
How did critics get this movie so wrong? I'm not saying its a perfect movie but a movie is supposed to be entertaining and it definitly succeeds in that category.
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7
AnimeLover217Jun 21, 2022
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I Love this movie i really do my main issue is it doesnt stick to the source material too much.
Sure it has the characters Speed, Trixie, RacerX, Pops, Mom, Chim-Chim, Sparky, all of them. The rest of the movie besides the races is your typical mafia vs federal organization. Although The Mach 6 In the movie was never in the show, it was a fun car to add in though, i do give them props for creative liberties but the main focus of the show is a kid who feels like he has something to prove and does he becomes a pro racecar driver and finds his long lost, technically dead, brother and in the movie that does kind of happen but its explained in a weird way. The every race is an epileptic nightmare especially the last race sure its cool but it could give anyone a headache especially the zebras. and as a final note the cgi is so-so because you can see where the real people end and the cgi start.… Expand
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10
anonytatoplayzApr 4, 2023
I love racing games it is so good I love them so much racing games = happy time funf un I love racing. the racing in this game is good
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