Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story (2020): Cast & Ratings
Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story is a 2020 documentary directed by Nate Adams and Adam Carolla, starring Willy T. Ribbs, Paul Newman and Bernie Ecclestone. It runs 1 hour 49 minutes. Its Echo Score is 85/100.
- Released
- Runtime
- 1h 49m (109 min)
- Directors
- Nate Adams and Adam Carolla
- Genre
- Documentary
- Original language
-
English
- Studio
- Chassy Media
- After the credits
- No No extra scene
What Is Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story About?
The premise of Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story without spoilers.
This is the story of Willy T. Ribbs, a groundbreaking figure in auto racing. The documentary explores his life and career, highlighting his role in shattering the color barrier within professional racing. Ribbs became the first Black driver to qualify for the prestigious Indy 500, facing significant challenges and controversy along the way. It’s a revealing look at his journey and impact on the sport.
Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story Themes & Keywords
· 2 tags- race car driver
- indy 500
Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story Cast
Willy T. Ribbs leads the cast, with Paul Newman and Bernie Ecclestone. Directed by Nate Adams and Adam Carolla; 12 actors are credited in all.
- Co-director Nate Adams
- Co-director Adam Carolla
- Willy T. Ribbs as themselves
-
Paul Newman as themselves -
Bernie Ecclestone as themselves - Caitlyn Jenner as themselves
Also Starring in Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story
· 8 more- David Hobbs Themselves
- Bobby Unser Themselves
- Dan Gurney Themselves
- Phillip Ribbs Themselves
- Geraldine Ribbs Themselves
- Al Unser Jr. Themselves
- Marshall Pruett Themselves
- Robby Unser Themselves
More from Nate Adams and Adam Carolla
More films directed by Nate Adams and Adam Carolla: Shelby American: The Carroll Shelby Story, Adam Carolla: Not Taco Bell Material and The 24 Hour War.
Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story Reviews & Ratings
Our Echo Score gives it 85/100, strongest in art & craft (86) and weakest in story & flow (78).
Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story Echo Score Breakdown
Uppy: The Willy T. Ribbs Story delivers an inspiring portrait of a pioneering racer, combining strong production values with an emotionally resonant narrative. The documentary benefits from polished editing, smooth transitions, and compelling archival footage that keep the pacing engaging, while the charismatic presence of Ribbs adds depth. Critics note occasional over‑information and a largely one‑sided perspective, yet the film’s inspirational impact and high‑quality craftsmanship dominate the viewing experience. Overall, it stands as a notable addition to sports documentary cinema.
Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.
- Art & Craft 86
In terms of art and craft, the film exhibits polished direction and refined editing that maintain a clear, accessible flow. Reviewers highlight smooth transitions, high production values, and striking race footage that enhance visual storytelling. Although some viewers mention occasional excess detail, the overall technical execution is regarded as top‑tier for documentary standards, resulting in a strong artistic impression.
- Character & Emotion 82
When it comes to character and emotion, the documentary centers on Willy T. Ribbs' charismatic presence, delivering a nuanced portrait that elicits both admiration and empathy. Critics note the protagonist’s compelling personal journey, emotional resonance, and inspiring resolve, which drive viewer connection. Minor critiques reference perceived arrogance, yet the prevailing sentiment affirms a powerful, emotionally engaging character study.
- Story & Flow 78
Regarding story and flow, the narrative is praised for its inspiring arc and measured pacing that sustain interest. Reviewers commend the documentary’s originality in spotlighting a largely untold figure, though some cite redundant historical digressions and a one‑sided perspective. Overall, the plot remains coherent and engaging, balancing factual depth with narrative momentum.
- Sensory Experience 80
In sensory experience, the film benefits from immersive sound design and vivid visual style, featuring dynamic racing footage and effective musical cues that heighten tension. Critics appreciate the documentary’s crisp audio‑visual quality, noting it enhances immersion. While specific soundtrack commentary is limited, the overall sensory impact is regarded as polished and supportive of the storytelling.
- Rewatch Factor 86
The rewatch factor is strong, as viewers report lasting appeal and a desire to revisit the story for its inspirational message. Reviewers describe emotional impact that resonates beyond the initial viewing, and the high production values encourage repeat engagement. Despite some criticism of narrative balance, the documentary’s compelling subject matter sustains its replay value.
Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story Trailers & Videos
The trailer of Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story.
Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story Also Known As
2 alternative titles: “Il primo: la storia di Willy T. Ribbs” and “Willy T. Ribbs : La course pour la liberté”.
- Also known as
-
- Il primo: la storia di Willy T. Ribbs
- Willy T. Ribbs : La course pour la liberté
Seen Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story?
Movies Like Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story
Films with a similar story, tone or audience, including Race: Bubba Wallace, Qualified and The Jackie Robinson Story.
Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story FAQ: Cast & Runtime
Runtime, release date, director, cast and post-credit scenes of Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story, each answered in a sentence.
How long is Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story?
Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story runs 1 hour 49 minutes (109 minutes).
When was Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story released?
Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story was released on January 7, 2020.
Who directed Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story?
Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story was directed by Nate Adams and Adam Carolla.
More films by Nate Adams Who is in the cast of Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story?
Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story stars Willy T. Ribbs, Paul Newman and Bernie Ecclestone, among 12 credited actors.
Does Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story have a post-credit scene?
No. Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story has no extra scene during or after the credits.
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