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Lando Norris has expressed strong criticism of the latest season of Netflix’s Drive to Survive, alleging that the show’s producers present a misleading narrative about drivers by indulging in “fabricated nonsense” to enhance dramatic storytelling.
Since its debut in 2019, Drive to Survive has become a cultural phenomenon, chronicling each season of Formula One. Its success has significantly contributed to the sport’s popularity, receiving positive feedback from F1 ownership, teams, and fans alike. However, concerns regarding the representation and editing practices employed by Box to Box Films, the production company behind the series, have surfaced consistently.
In the recently released season, Norris is featured prominently as he competes for the championship against Max Verstappen. His candidness with the filmmakers has earned him commendations. Despite this, before the season’s opening race, Norris expressed discontent over what he perceives as manipulated footage that suggested a rivalry between him and Verstappen, despite their amicable relationship.
“They need to show the truth about people more,” Norris stated. “I’m not a fan of fake stuff. I want facts, I don’t want made-up scripts and fabricated nonsense. The portrayal of Max and how we were at odds was unnecessary.”
Norris recalled his first grand prix victory in Miami from the previous season being depicted as a close battle with Verstappen, whereas he secured a comfortable win. Footage of Verstappen’s reaction was misleadingly drawn from the Dutch Grand Prix, not the Miami event, an error that has since been acknowledged and corrected by the producers.
While Verstappen congratulated Norris on his victory and celebrated with him that evening, Norris voiced worry that audiences might skew their opinions based on selective editing. “Portraying someone inaccurately creates misconceptions. It’s almost like lying, which isn’t fair to anyone, especially given the series’ wide reach and influence,” he added.
Verstappen himself has been critical of the series, even limiting his involvement. “I watched a couple of episodes, and I wasn’t very impressed. It’s just not for me, faking rivalries,” he remarked.
As Netflix begins filming the eighth season of Drive to Survive at the Australian Grand Prix, Norris acknowledged that the series played a significant role in elevating Formula One’s profile and recognized its appeal to fans excited about behind-the-scenes access. However, he advocates for a shift in focus from dramatized narratives to a more documentary-style presentation.
“The most important thing is to portray the reality of F1, including its drivers, engineers, and team principals. Losing this truth undermines the essence of the show,” he emphasized.
A spokesperson representing Drive to Survive responded to Norris’s criticisms, stating, “The narratives we create are rooted in real events and are not fabricated. To engage a broader audience, we aim to tell these stories in an entertaining manner.”
Acknowledging the fast-paced nature of production, the spokesperson also noted that unintentional errors can occur, and they are committed to rectifying these when identified, as demonstrated by the recent correction regarding Verstappen’s footage.
Meanwhile, a Formula One spokesperson stood by the series, highlighting its critical role in the sport’s growth and urging that the focus should remain on the positive changes it has brought about.
Source
www.theguardian.com