“Motor City,” an action film set against the backdrop of 1970s Detroit, has captivated audiences at two major film festivals with its unconventional approach to storytelling. The film, directed by Potsy Ponciroli, made its world premiere on August 30, 2023, at the Venice Film Festival and is set to screen at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 4, 2023.
Receiving praise for its striking visuals and unique style, “Motor City” has been described as “dazzling” by Deadline. The film features minimal dialogue, reportedly containing only five lines, which has garnered significant attention from critics. The Wrap noted, “You’ve heard of silent movies? This is a loud movie, except that it does away with words,” highlighting the film’s focus on action over dialogue.
Setting and Storyline
Despite its setting in Detroit, the film was primarily shot in New Jersey, a decision influenced by the state’s film incentives. The narrative centers around an autoworker named John Miller, portrayed by Alan Ritchson, who becomes embroiled in a violent conflict with a drug dealer, played by Ben Foster, and a corrupt policeman, portrayed by Pablo Schreiber. After being framed and imprisoned, Miller seeks revenge and aims to reunite with his fiancée, Sophia, played by Shailene Woodley.
With its nearly dialogue-free format, the film utilizes a variety of sounds—grunts, explosions, and the roar of muscle cars—to convey its emotional and narrative depth. As Potsy Ponciroli stated, the absence of words allows for a focus on the physicality of the characters, creating a “kinetic, immersive” experience that resonates on a sonic level.
Music and Reception
The film’s score features classic rock tracks, including Fleetwood Mac’s “The Chain,” curated by Detroit music icon Jack White. This musical backdrop complements the film’s high-octane atmosphere, described by the Toronto International Film Festival as “a cinematic symphony of muscle cars, gunfire, and heartbreak.”
As the film seeks a distribution deal to reach a wider audience, its prospects appear promising, particularly as it gains traction at the Toronto festival. Ritchson emphasized the film’s commercial potential, stating, “Obviously, it’s a huge choice to not rely on dialogue, but I want this to be commercial. I want everybody to enjoy this and it not just to be for a tiny niche audience.”
With its innovative storytelling and engaging action sequences, “Motor City” aims to redefine cinematic experiences and connect with audiences beyond the art-house circuit. As festival screenings continue, industry insiders remain optimistic about the film’s future in mainstream theaters.