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Truth in 24
Truth in 24
Truth in 24
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Truth in 24
Truth in 24 release poster
Directed byKeith Cossrow
Bennett Viseltear
Written byKeith Cossrow
Bennett Viseltear
Produced byAlan Brown
Matt Goldfine
Chuck Johnsen
StarringJason Statham (narrator)
Allan McNish
Rinaldo Capello
Tom Kristensen
CinematographyJim Barry
David Dart
Matt Lyons
Dave Malek
Donald Marx
Hank McElwee
Allen Sandrow
Edited byKeith Cossrow
Bennett Viseltear
Music byDavid Robidoux[1]
Distributed byIntersport
NFL Films
Release date
  • October 25, 2008 (2008-10-25) (Chicago International Film Festival)
Running time
98 minutes
LanguageEnglish

Truth in 24 is a 2008 documentary film edited, written and directed by Keith Cossrow and Bennett Viseltear detailing Audi's preparation for the 2008 24 Hours of Le Mans. The team is followed through several races prior to Le Mans, including the 12 Hours of Sebring and the 1000km of Monza. Neither race results in victory for Audi (although they did win class at Sebring) heading into Le Mans. The focus shifts to Le Mans itself, documenting the buildup to the race and the ultimate result of the race.[2]

British action film actor Jason Statham is the film's narrator. Numerous Audi officials and drivers are interviewed through the film, including the eventual winning team of Allan McNish, Dindo Capello, and Tom Kristensen.

Release

[edit]

Truth in 24 had its television premiere on March 20, 2009, airing on ESPN.[3] The release was the day prior to the 2009 12 Hours of Sebring. The film was released as a free download on iTunes on March 24, 2009.[4]

On March 27, 2012, it was announced that a sequel would be made to Truth in 24, which was called Truth in 24 II and highlighted Audi's participation at the 2011 24 Hours of Le Mans.[5]

References

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Truth in 24

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Truth in 24 is a American directed by Keith Cossrow and Bennett Viseltear that chronicles the Sport racing teams' preparation and competition to achieve a record fifth consecutive victory at the endurance race. The film provides a behind-the-scenes look at the engineering, strategies, and human elements involved, focusing on the three diesel prototypes entered in the event, driven by teams including , , and Dindo Capello in the lead car. Produced by , it highlights 's dominance in endurance racing, having secured seven wins in the previous eight races with their R8 and R10 models, while facing stiff competition from Peugeot's diesel entries. Narrated by actor , the 95-minute film captures the intensity of the 76-year-old race, from pre-event testing at Sebring and to the dramatic 24-hour battle at . Originally premiered at film festivals in with a , followed by television broadcasts and DVD distribution, Truth in 24 received critical acclaim, earning an 8.1/10 rating on from 10,563 user votes as of November 2025.

Background

The 24 Hours of Le Mans

The 24 Hours of Le Mans originated in 1923 as a test of automobile endurance and reliability, organized by the (ACO) to evaluate production cars under prolonged racing conditions. The inaugural event took place on May 26-27, 1923, at the near , , and has been held annually there since, except during wartime interruptions. Conceived as an "open-air testing laboratory" for motor vehicles, the race emphasized durability and innovation in automotive engineering from its outset. The race follows a continuous 24-hour format, where competing vehicles complete as many laps as possible on the 13.626-kilometer , typically covering between 4,000 and 5,000 kilometers in total. Unlike time-based races, the overall winner is determined by the greatest distance achieved, prioritizing mechanical reliability and driver stamina over outright speed. Vehicles compete in multiple categories, including classes such as LMP1 for advanced prototypes including diesel and petrol-powered vehicles, alongside GT (Grand Touring) classes featuring production-derived sports cars, allowing for class-specific winners while crowning an overall champion. By 2008, diesel prototypes like Audi's R10 TDI and Peugeot's 908 HDi dominated LMP1, emphasizing fuel strategy and efficiency. Regarded as a cornerstone of , the holds immense cultural prestige as one of the world's oldest and most demanding endurance events, forming part of the informal alongside the and Indianapolis 500. Its legacy of technological advancement and global appeal has solidified its status as a legendary test of human and machine limits.

Audi's Racing History

Audi's involvement in motorsport began in the 1980s, initially focusing on rally and , where the innovative quattro all-wheel-drive system provided a competitive edge. The rally car debuted in the in 1981, securing manufacturer titles in 1982 and 1984, with drivers like and contributing to early successes. By the late 1980s, Audi expanded into touring car series, winning the Trans-Am championship in 1988 with the Audi 200 quattro and the GTO title in 1989 with the Audi 90 quattro, demonstrating the quattro system's adaptability across disciplines. This foundation in production-derived racing paved the way for Audi's entry into prototype endurance racing at the in 1999, marked by the debut of the R8R , developed in collaboration with . Powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter producing over 600 horsepower, the R8R finished third and fourth overall in its inaugural appearance, signaling Audi's potential in the LMP class despite being newcomers against established rivals like and . Building on this, the evolved R8 platform secured Audi's first victory in 2000 with a dominant 1-2-3 finish, driven by teams including , , and , followed by additional wins in 2001 and 2002 using petrol-powered variants that emphasized reliability and aerodynamics. After a 2003 setback when —using an -derived engine—claimed victory, reclaimed dominance with R8 wins in 2004 and 2005, achieving five triumphs in six years and establishing the R8 as one of the most successful prototypes in history. The introduction of diesel technology in 2006 with the R10 TDI revolutionized endurance racing, featuring a 5.5-liter that delivered over 650 horsepower and more than 1,100 Nm of while prioritizing , allowing up to 16 laps per stint compared to competitors' 12-13. This TDI innovation, with its common-rail injection and variable turbine geometry, reduced fuel consumption by over 20% relative to prior petrol engines, enabling strategic advantages in long-distance events and propelling the R10 to victories in 2006, 2007, and setting the stage for 2008. Throughout this era, faced intense challenges from rivals like Peugeot's 908 HDi FAP diesel prototypes, which mounted strong bids in and , and Bentley's earlier successes that tested 's engineering resolve. These competitions honed 's focus on hybrid diesel powertrains and lightweight construction, culminating in the ambitious pursuit of a record fifth consecutive win in with the R10 TDI, aiming to extend their streak from onward amid evolving regulations and fierce manufacturer battles.

Production

Development and Filmmakers

"Truth in 24" was directed by Keith Cossrow and co-directed by Bennett Viseltear, both experienced filmmakers from , marking the company's first venture into automotive racing documentation. The project received production support from in collaboration with , a Chicago-based of and programming, under the sponsorship of Sport. Primarily funded by , the documentary emphasized authentic, unscripted access to the team's operations rather than dramatized narratives. The film aimed to capture the behind-the-scenes human and technical drama of Audi's pursuit of a record fifth consecutive victory at the . The creative team utilized multiple cinematographers and operators to document high-speed action and team dynamics, drawing on ' expertise in immersive sports storytelling.

Filming Process

The production of Truth in 24 employed a multi-camera setup to document the full 24-hour duration of the 2008 , incorporating in-car cameras for first-person driver perspectives, such as Allan McNish's account of a lap in the . Trackside rigs captured panoramic views of the circuit and spectators, while dedicated positions at the pit wall provided intimate footage of team operations and mechanical adjustments. This configuration enabled comprehensive coverage without disrupting the race flow, leveraging ' expertise in high-stakes event cinematography. Filming encountered significant logistical challenges, particularly from the conditions that marked the event. Heavy rain began falling around the eighth hour of the race on , 2008, transforming the track into a slippery challenge and complicating outdoor shots with reduced visibility and equipment protection needs. Nighttime sequences, spanning roughly the middle third of the endurance test, required specialized low-light cameras to navigate the circuit's variable artificial lighting and natural darkness, ensuring clear depiction of high-speed action and team responses. Close coordination with Audi Sport and other teams was critical to secure unobtrusive positions, minimizing interference during critical pit stops and strategy decisions. Editing for Truth in 24 was expedited in the summer of 2008, mere months after the June race conclusion, to retain the raw urgency of unfolding events and highlight interpersonal in the narrative. This tight timeline allowed the documentary to premiere on November 6, 2008, at the Mann Chinese 6 Theatre in , preserving the immediacy of the footage. Ethical considerations arose from the production's unprecedented access to Audi's inner workings, including real-time strategy sessions in the garage and candid post-lap driver interviews that revealed tactical deliberations and emotional strains. Directors Keith Cossrow and Bennett Viseltear, drawing from ' tradition of authentic sports storytelling, balanced this intimacy with responsible representation to avoid compromising team confidences.

Content

Synopsis

Truth in 24 opens with pre-race testing and preparations for the 2008 , including footage from the where Peugeot's 908 HDi FAP demonstrated superior speed, foreshadowing the intense rivalry ahead. The documentary follows Audi's three R10 TDI entries as drivers like , , and undergo physical conditioning and strategic briefings, emphasizing the grueling demands of the endurance event that tests both machine and human limits over a full day and night. Qualifying sessions highlight Peugeot securing pole position, setting Audi in a defensive posture from the outset. As the race commences on June 14, 2008, the film captures the initial high-speed action with cars taking early leads, while Audi's efficient diesel fuel consumption allows for longer stints and strategic positioning. Interviews with drivers and engineers intercut with onboard and trackside footage reveal the mounting fatigue after hours of non-stop driving, while team strategies adapt to varying conditions. The No. 1 and No. 3 cars face mechanical issues and significant pit stops, leading to lost positions (#3 finishes 4th after a garage visit, #1 6th), shifting greater focus to the No. 2 entry and underscoring the theme of perseverance amid setbacks. Heavy rain around the 15th hour introduces chaos, with periods and slippery conditions enabling Audi's No. 2 car, driven by Capello, McNish, and Kristensen, to pull ahead of the leading through superior traction and pit strategy. The narrative builds tension through voiceovers and real-time decisions, highlighting how the diesel engine's reliability and efficiency proved decisive in the wet weather. As dawn breaks, the race intensifies with drivers battling exhaustion, culminating in a nail-biting finish where Audi's No. 2 car secures victory by 4 minutes and 31.094 seconds after 24 hours. Post-race reflections from the team reinforce themes of resilience and innovation, with the diesel-powered triumph marking Audi's fifth consecutive Le Mans win. The 95-minute runtime masterfully blends high-octane race sequences, introspective interviews, and Jason Statham's narration to convey the emotional and technical stakes without overwhelming the viewer.

Key Participants and Teams

The documentary Truth in 24 centers on Sport's effort to secure a fifth consecutive victory at the 2008 , highlighting the drivers of the winning No. 2 : , a Danish driver with a record nine overall Le Mans wins across his career; , a Scottish racer known for his endurance expertise; and , an Italian competitor who contributed to multiple triumphs. These three formed the core lineup for the victorious prototype, leveraging their combined experience to navigate challenging conditions, including heavy rain that tested their precision driving. Supporting the primary drivers were backup personnel, such as Marco Werner, a German driver who piloted the No. 1 alongside and , ready to step in if needed during the grueling 24-hour event. Audi's three-car entry also included the No. 3 R10 TDI, driven by , Alexandre Prémat, and Lucas Luhr, which provided strategic depth and data for the team's overall campaign despite facing issues, with the No. 2 ultimately clinching the win by a narrow margin. At the helm of Audi Sport was team principal Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich, Head of Audi Motorsport, who oversaw the operation and emphasized the historical significance of the rain-affected race. Engineers played pivotal roles in optimizing fuel management—critical for the diesel-powered R10 TDI's efficiency over long stints—and tire strategies, adapting to wet conditions that demanded careful conservation to maintain competitiveness against rivals like . Lead race engineer "H" Haynes coordinated these efforts for the No. 2 car, while assistant contributed to setup and real-time adjustments, marking her early involvement in Audi's successes. Behind the scenes, mechanics endured exhaustive 24-hour shifts in the garage, performing rapid pit stops for refueling, tire changes, and repairs under immense pressure to minimize downtime. Meteorologists within the team provided crucial forecasts predicting rain's impact, informing decisions on tire compounds and pacing that proved decisive in the No. 2 car's victory.

Release and Distribution

Premiere and Initial Release

Truth in 24 had its world at the AFI FEST in on November 6, 2008. The event featured appearances by key participants, including drivers , , and Alexandre Prémat, highlighting the film's focus on Audi's racing efforts. Following the festival debut, the documentary screened at additional events, such as the in January 2009, where it received praise for its behind-the-scenes portrayal of endurance racing. These early screenings served as part of Audi's promotional strategy ahead of the 2009 motorsport season. The film's initial television broadcast occurred on in the United States on March 20, 2009, airing in primetime just before the race. Produced in collaboration with and narrated by , the airing marked the documentary's first wide public distribution and was positioned to build excitement for Audi's participation in the upcoming . Internationally, Truth in 24 became available for digital download on starting in March 2009, enabling global access tied to Audi's ongoing marketing efforts for its campaigns. Trailers and promotional materials emphasized the high-stakes drama of the race, with endorsements from featured drivers like underscoring the film's authentic depiction of team dynamics.

Home Media and Streaming

Following its premiere, "Truth in 24" was made available for home viewing through physical and digital formats. The documentary received a DVD release in 2009 distributed by NFL Films, allowing fans to experience the behind-the-scenes coverage of Audi's 2008 Le Mans campaign in standard definition. In 2013, Duke Video issued a Blu-ray edition bundling "Truth in 24" with its sequel "Truth in 24 II: Every Second Counts," offering enhanced high-definition video quality and worldwide region compatibility for broader accessibility. Digital distribution began with a free iTunes download in 2009, promoted by to reach global audiences. By the 2010s, clips appeared on and Audi's official channels, providing free previews of key race moments. As of 2025, full streaming remains limited; it is unavailable on major U.S. platforms like or Prime Video but accessible via purchase or rental on Apple TV in select international markets, including . International editions of the physical releases supported global Audi enthusiasts, with the region-free Blu-ray facilitating playback worldwide, though specific subtitled versions in languages like German and French were not formally detailed in distribution announcements.

Reception and Legacy

Critical Response

"Truth in 24" received widespread acclaim for its immersive pacing and unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to the team's preparations and the 2008 24 Hours of Le Mans race. Critics praised the documentary's ability to build tension through human drama in the pits and on the track, making the event feel immediate and engaging even for non-motorsport enthusiasts. The film's production by contributed to its high-quality storytelling, with AutoWeek describing it as one of the best movies ever made for its appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers. On , it holds an 8.1/10 rating based on 10,563 user ratings (as of November 2025), reflecting strong appreciation for its authentic portrayal of the race's intensity. Some reviewers noted criticisms regarding the documentary's narrative structure and perspective. As an Audi-commissioned , it heavily emphasizes the team's internal dynamics, offering limited insights into rival teams like , which some felt resulted in a one-sided view of the competition. Additionally, the predictable outcome—known to most motorsport audiences—diminished for knowledgeable viewers, though the film compensates with strong visuals and driver interviews. Audience reception highlighted high engagement, particularly among communities. The documentary screened successfully at s and auto events during the 2008-2009 , generating buzz and positive discussions on fan forums such as AudiWorld, where users lauded its authenticity and emotional depth. In terms of s, "Truth in 24" earned nominations for sports documentary honors, including the 31st for Outstanding Edited Documentary, though it did not secure a win. It also won the Audience for Best Documentary at the 2009 Gasparilla International and took the top documentary prize at the 2008 Fort Lauderdale International .

Impact on Motorsport Media

"Truth in 24" pioneered embedded filming techniques at the by granting filmmakers unprecedented access to the racing team, allowing for an intimate portrayal of the preparation and execution of the 2008 race. This approach, characterized by behind-the-scenes footage and real-time immersion, set a new standard for documentaries and inspired subsequent works, such as the 2010 Senna. It also influenced high-production-value in media to engage global audiences. The documentary significantly boosted Audi's brand image by showcasing the success of its diesel-powered R10 TDI prototype, which secured a record fifth consecutive victory in 2008. This portrayal helped increase awareness of the in the United States, where endurance had limited mainstream exposure prior to its ESPN broadcast in 2009. By highlighting the reliability and performance of diesel technology in extreme conditions, "Truth in 24" contributed to Audi's post-2008 efforts to promote TDI engines in consumer vehicles, aligning achievements with road car innovations. In terms of legacy metrics, the film has amassed millions of views online by 2025, with a popular upload on surpassing one million views and continuing to attract endurance racing enthusiasts. Produced by , it demonstrated the viability of applying cinematic narration to motorsport, influencing the company's expansion into automotive content beyond , including subsequent projects. The cultural ripple effects of "Truth in 24" extended to encouraging fan-produced content within the community, as viewers emulated its immersive style in amateur videos and blogs about racing events. This of fostered greater engagement with and endurance racing online. Furthermore, the documentary's success directly led to the production of its 2011 sequel, ": Every Second Counts," which chronicled Audi's tenth triumph and reinforced the franchise's role in media.

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