Madison (2005)

Like "The Natural" only wetter

I got an inexpensive copy of this movie yesterday, and took it home and watched it. Yes, I am a fan of hydroplane history-love the sound of the piston engines. The movie plays fast and loose with the facts of the 1971 Gold Cup, the Miss Madison, even the circumstances in Port Madison, Indiana. Who cares? !!! It's a great story, even if a bit contrived. It immediately reminded me of The Natural-a great baseball story, even if contrived, and non-historical and different than Malamud's book. When Miss Madison crosses the finish line, it's the same feeling as Roy Hobbes rounding the bases under arcing light towers.

Heck, how many good boat racing movies have there been? Especially hydroplane racing? Like, none. Rent it, buy it, it's a family movie. Your kids will love it.
June 12, 2008

A Good Film

I may be a bit biased as I was fortunate enough to go to the world premier of this film in Madison, Indiana with the current Miss Madison racing team and got to meet the director and some of the cast.

Gold cup hydroplane racing dates back to 1911 and has a rich history of boats, teams and drivers. Unfortunately it's hasn't attained much popularity beyond the Indiana and Washington race sites. I am glad a film was made to document the great gold cup race of 1971 and the underdog local Madison team. The film is very well casted and has some fantastic footage of racing on the Ohio river. I give it only 4 stars for a somewhat formulaic plot. Beyond that it's a well done, entertaining movie. January 3, 2008

Madison, a movie for the whole family !

Great movie for everyone , the whole family liked this movie (10 yr,girl & 12yr boy ) A true story that will have you cheering for the underdog !! The racing scenes were excellent. We also really enjoyed the special features on the dvd , interveiws with the real people and the old footage from wild world of sports. If you are looking for a family movie this is it! September 4, 2007

Outstanding family film

Based on a true story. This is a great family film with a positive message. The racing sequences are realistic and well done. August 30, 2007

Great Movie

I enjoyed this movie very much. Being from Madison, and being a child that was there the day of this race, this movie brought it all back to me, and great memories of Madison, the Ohio River, the "Miss Madison", the Regatta, and the great people of Madison. This is a great movie for the whole family. April 3, 2007

More reviews at Amazon.com ...