Le Mans is a 1971 film directed by Lee H. Katzin and starring Steve McQueen as Michael Delaney, a race car driver for the Porsche team. The film was shot during the actual 24 Hours of Le Mans race in 1970, and the on-track action is unparalleled in its realism. The film features little dialogue and emphasizes the sights and sounds of the racing experience.
Delaney's haunted past hangs over the film's narrative as he attempts to overcome his guilt and fear during the race. He also develops a romantic relationship with the widow of the driver he accidentally killed, played by Elga Andersen. The film's climax features an intense battle between Delaney's Porsche and the Ferrari team's car, as they both attempt to win the race.
Le Mans is regarded as a classic film for racing fans, and it served as a tribute to the passion and danger of endurance racing. Steve McQueen, a noted car enthusiast and racer, performed many of his own stunts during the filming, contributing to the authenticity of the movie. Despite mixed critical reviews upon its release, the film has since become a cult classic and a beloved touchstone for racing and car enthusiasts.