Rocket Car Daredevil Story Hits Toronto With Baruchel in Lead
Michael Dowse's 'The Stunt Driver' stars Jay Baruchel as 1970s Canadian daredevil Ken Carter, who attempted a mile-long rocket car jump across the St. Lawrence River. The film, based on Bob Fortier's 1981 documentary 'The Devil at Your Heels,' premieres at the Toronto International Film Festival. Dowse, who has previously collaborated with Baruchel on 'Goon,' notes the project's demanding stunt work was not for the faint-hearted.
Dowse's connection to the project dates back to 2013, when his feature "The F Word" screened at the Toronto festival and he first encountered Carter's story. This marks his sixth feature to premiere at TIFF, continuing a long-standing relationship with the event.
The narrative blends nostalgic stunt spectacle with underlying cross-border friction, offering a distinct retro tone. Baruchel and Dowse reunite after their earlier collaboration on "Goon," bringing a familiar creative partnership to this adaptation of Fortier's cult documentary.
The film could rekindle public fascination with historical daredevil feats, potentially inspiring renewed interest in Canadian cultural heritage and the St. Lawrence region. Audiences may find parallels between Carter's cross-border ambitions and contemporary discussions about national identity. Additionally, the focus on demanding stunt work might elevate appreciation for practical filmmaking, possibly influencing how future productions approach physical spectacle.