Silver Dream Racer
Silver Dream Racer is a 1980 motor-racing film starring British pop star David Essex and Beau Bridges. The film was produced, written and directed by David Wickes. It was the last film to be made by the Rank Organisation. Plot. Nick Freeman (David Essex) is an aspiring motorcycle racer, whose brother has been developing an experimental motorcycle. When his brother dies before being able to test and race the new bike, Nick inherits the responsibility to prove his brother's design. In spite of a series of tough setbacks, including the loss of his girlfriend, Nick  goes into the big race at the British Grand Prix with all his energy and concentration bent on winning. However, an underhanded American racer (Beau Bridges) is also among the competitors, and is determined to ruin Nick's chances. Numerous incidents happen before Nick crosses the finish line in first place. Two completely different endings were filmed depicting Nick after he has won the race, and both versions were released. Cast. Tuesday Weld had talks about playing the female lead. She eventually took another role, and Cristina Raines took the part. Some scenes were filmed during the 1979 Grand Prix  at Silverstone, Northamptonshire. The Silver Dream Racer was a real motorcycle, designed by Barry Hart of the Barton company. English motorcycle racer Roger Marshall did most of David Essex's riding for the film. Reception. "The Guardian" said "the story is as boring as hell". The "Los Angeles Times" called it a "lively genre piece". The film was not a commercial success at the box office. It holds a 33% fresh rating on review aggregate site Rotten Tomatoes.