Literary Devices in Ford v Ferrari (2019) ✍️

Brief Intro

“Ford v Ferrari,” directed by James Mangold, is a high-octane drama based on the true story of the rivalry between Ford Motor Company and Ferrari in the 1960s. The film follows visionary car designer Carroll Shelby and fearless driver Ken Miles as they build a revolutionary race car for Ford to challenge Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Contents

Literary Devices Used in Ford v Ferrari

Metaphor

Movie Scene	Device Example
Shelby explaining the “perfect lap” to Miles	The “perfect lap” as a metaphor for perfection and mastery.
Ford executives discussing the race as war	The competition described as a battlefield.

Foreshadowing

Movie Scene	Device Example
Shelby’s initial meeting with Henry Ford II	Hints of future conflicts and challenges.
Ken Miles arguing about car adjustments	Early signs of Miles’ tragic fate.

Irony

Movie Scene	Device Example
Ford’s marketing team celebrating prematurely	Dramatic irony as the audience knows the race isn’t won yet.
Ferrari’s dismissive attitude towards Ford	Situational irony when Ford beats Ferrari.

Symbolism

Movie Scene	Device Example
The Ford GT40 car itself	Represents innovation and American ingenuity.
Le Mans track	Symbolizes the ultimate test of endurance and skill.

Hyperbole

Movie Scene	Device Example
Shelby describing the speed of the car	Exaggerated descriptions to emphasize performance.
Ford executives’ expectations of the race	Over-the-top expectations to show high stakes.

Flashback

Movie Scene	Device Example
Shelby recalling his racing days	Provides background on his expertise and passion.
Miles reminiscing about his early racing career	Gives depth to his character and motivations.

Allusion

Movie Scene	Device Example
References to Enzo Ferrari’s legacy	Alludes to the grandeur of Ferrari’s racing history.
Mentions of World War II in Ford’s strategy	Alludes to Ford’s manufacturing role during the war.

Personification

Movie Scene	Device Example
Shelby talking about the car as a living entity	Gives the car human-like qualities.
Engineers referring to the engine’s “heart”	Personifies parts of the car to create emotional attachment.

Dialogue

Movie Scene	Device Example
Conversations between Shelby and Miles	Reveals their personalities and dynamic.
Boardroom discussions at Ford	Highlights corporate culture and tensions.

Juxtaposition

Movie Scene	Device Example
American vs. Italian car culture	Contrasts different approaches to car racing.
Miles’ home life vs. racing life	Highlights the stark differences in his worlds.

Character Analysis Through Literary Devices

Carroll Shelby

Device	Explanation
Metaphor	Shelby’s comparisons of racing to art reveal his passion for perfection.
Dialogue	His conversations show his strategic thinking and persuasive skills.

Ken Miles

Device	Explanation
Flashback	Provides insight into his motivations and racing background.
Symbolism	His dedication to the GT40 symbolizes his commitment to excellence.

Henry Ford II

Device	Explanation
Irony	His overconfidence contrasted with actual race outcomes.
Dialogue	Displays his authoritative and ambitious nature.

Enzo Ferrari

Device	Explanation
Allusion	References to his legacy emphasize his stature in the racing world.
Juxtaposition	Contrasts his traditional approach with Ford’s innovative strategies.

Character Dynamics

The relationship between Shelby and Miles is pivotal, driven by mutual respect and a shared passion for racing. Their dynamic propels the narrative, showcasing themes of friendship, trust, and determination. Shelby’s strategic mind complements Miles’ driving prowess, creating a powerful synergy that challenges Ford’s corporate rigidity and Ferrari’s racing dominance.

Thematic Analysis

Ambition and Innovation

Device	Explanation
Metaphor	The race as a metaphor for personal and corporate ambition.
Juxtaposition	Contrasts Ford’s innovative approach with Ferrari’s traditionalism.

Friendship and Loyalty

Device	Explanation
Dialogue	Conversations between Shelby and Miles highlight their bond.
Symbolism	The GT40 car as a symbol of their collaborative effort.

Corporate Politics

Device	Explanation
Irony	Ford’s executives’ decisions often backfire, highlighting the absurdity of corporate politics.
Flashback	Historical references to Ford’s past achievements set the stage for current challenges.

Cinematic Techniques That Enhance Literary Devices

Literary Device	Technique	Explanation
Metaphor	Visual Metaphors	Use of visual elements to represent concepts, like the GT40 symbolizing innovation.
Foreshadowing	Lighting and Shadows	Dramatic lighting to hint at future events or outcomes.
Irony	Sound Design	Contrasting cheerful music with tense or disappointing scenes.
Symbolism	Color Schemes	Use of color to signify different themes or character traits.
Dialogue	Close-ups	Intimate shots during key conversations to emphasize importance.

Key Scene Analysis

Scene 1: Shelby’s Pitch to Ford Executives

Link: Shelby’s Pitch

Breakdown: This scene uses sharp dialogue and close-up shots to convey Shelby’s persuasive skills and Ford’s skepticism. The interplay between characters sets the stage for the film’s central conflict.

Scene 2: Ken Miles’ First Test Drive

Link: Miles’ Test Drive

Breakdown: The scene uses dynamic camera angles and sound design to highlight Miles’ driving expertise and the car’s power. The juxtaposition of serene moments with high-speed action underscores Miles’ control and focus.

Scene 3: The Le Mans Race Climax

Link: Le Mans Race

Breakdown: This climactic scene employs a combination of slow-motion shots, intense music, and close-ups to heighten the drama. The use of irony and foreshadowing is evident as the race unfolds, revealing character arcs and themes.

Conclusion

Interactive Quiz

Question 1: Which literary device is used when Shelby describes the “perfect lap”?

Question 2: How does the film use juxtaposition in its thematic exploration?

A) By contrasting different approaches to car racing.
B) By using exaggerated descriptions.
C) By highlighting Shelby’s past racing career.

Question 3: What does the GT40 symbolize in the film?

A) Failure
B) Innovation
C) Friendship

Question 4: Which technique is used to enhance the metaphor of the race?

A) Lighting and Shadows
B) Visual Metaphors
C) Color Schemes

Question 5: What literary device is prominently featured in the Le Mans race climax?