Jess Kohl’s award-winning short film explores the bond between a father and son in the rough and tumble world of banger racing, challenging traditional notions of masculinity.
In the gritty and adrenaline-fueled world of banger racing, Jess Kohl’s short film, “A Mouthful of Petrol,” delves into the captivating story of Wayne and his son Jai-Dee. Kohl’s immersive documentary not only showcases the intense races and the community that surrounds them but also sheds light on the tender relationship between a father and his young son. With its thought-provoking exploration of masculinity, the film challenges stereotypes and offers a fresh perspective on what it means to be a man in a tough sport.
The Genesis of the Project: A Captivating World
Kohl’s journey into the world of banger racing began unexpectedly. Attending her first race with her family, she was immediately drawn to the visceral contrast it presented to everyday life. The smell of petrol, the biting cold, and the roaring engines created an assault on the senses that sparked her curiosity. Intrigued by the momentary pleasure found in the destruction of cars painstakingly built by multiple generations of families, Kohl knew she had stumbled upon a captivating story.
Building Trust: The Connection with Wayne and Jai-Dee
Meeting Wayne, a charismatic figure and natural leader, at that first race, Kohl felt an instant connection. Over time, she developed a friendship with Wayne and his son, Jai-Dee, before even considering filming their story. Kohl believes in collaborating meaningfully with her subjects, involving them in the filmmaking process to ensure a deeper level of truth. This foundation of trust and intimacy was crucial in authentically expressing their story on screen.
Filming the Fast-Paced Races: A Visual Spectacle
The races themselves are a visual spectacle, and Kohl wanted to capture their essence in an elegant yet immersive way. Securing permission to shoot from the center of the track, she used a long zoom lens to get up close to the action. Additionally, Kohl’s director of photography, Adric Watson, bravely filmed from inside the car, driven by Wayne and Jai-Dee themselves. The result is a thrilling and dynamic portrayal of the races that puts viewers in the heart of the action.
Challenging Masculinity: A Subversive Exploration
In a world known for its macho culture, Kohl sought to subvert expectations of gender and masculinity. While performances of masculinity in banger racing can often feel othering or intimidating, Kohl’s experience with Wayne and Jai-Dee proved otherwise. Wayne’s disciplined yet gentle parenting approach and their shared emphasis on family showcase a more nuanced and sensitive side. As a queer, gender nonconforming director, Kohl brings a unique perspective to the subject, exploring themes of coming of age and identity.
The Power of Sound: Crafting an Original Score
The film’s score plays a vital role in enhancing the narrative. Kohl collaborated with musician James Kelly to create a score that reflects the crashing cars and the racers’ nostalgia, noise, and escapism. Inspired by Neil Young’s improvisation on Jim Jarmusch’s “Dead Man,” the score combines a lo-fi, organic feel with moments of delicate instrumentation, capturing the beauty and respite found within the sport.
Conclusion: “A Mouthful of Petrol” has resonated with audiences worldwide, screening at prestigious festivals and winning the Golden Frog for best short documentary at Camerimage. Kohl’s film not only immerses viewers in the thrilling world of banger racing but also challenges traditional notions of masculinity. Through the tender relationship between Wayne and Jai-Dee, the film offers a fresh perspective on what it means to be a man in a tough sport, ultimately redefining masculinity for a new generation.
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