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Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story (2020): Cast & Ratings

Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story (2020) movie poster

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.

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Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story (2020) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 49m (109 min)
Directors
Nate Adams and Adam Carolla
Genre
Documentary
Original language
English
After the credits
No No extra scene
The story

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
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Cast & crew

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.

Also Starring in Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story

· 8 more
From the directors

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.

Ratings

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).

85 /100

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.

Videos

Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story Trailers & Videos

The trailer of Uppity: The Willy T. Ribbs Story.

UPPITY: The Willy T. Ribbs Story
Details

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

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FAQ

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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