31/25
Kaya Scodelario’s character, Laura Harrison, is fictional
Fictional miniseries based on the life of Ayrton Senna da Silva, a Brazilian racing legend who won the Formula One World Drivers’ Championship three times. She is based on journalists who covered Ayrton Senna’s career. Additionally, Scoledario’s family is Brazilian, originally from Senna’s home state of São Paulo. He is also fluent in Brazilian Portuguese.
Senna’s early career races in England are shown at a racetrack next to a mountain range
There are no mountains in England – especially in Norfolk, which is known for its flat landscape. Netflix’s Senna is a series that aims to capture the essence of Ayrton Senna, not only as a driver, but also as a cultural and sporting icon. Over the course of six episodes, we are transported on a visual and emotional journey through the trajectory of one of Brazil’s greatest heroes. Technically, Senna shines in the masterfully filmed racing scenes, bringing an intensity and realism that places the viewer right on the track, with every bend, acceleration and overtaking vibrating on the screen.
Gabriel Leone’s performance as Ayrton Senna is one of the greatest strengths of the production
The sound of the engines and the use of tight angles recreate the adrenaline of Formula 1 racing with impressive authenticity. For those who grew up watching Senna’s magical Sundays, the series manages to evoke that nostalgia, almost as if they were competing again. Leone does not just emulate Senna, but embodies his essence: his passion for motorsport, his almost obsessive perfectionism and the spiritual connection he had with what he did. Even in the most intimate and quiet moments, Leone conveys nuances that humanize the legend without diminishing his genius.
Senna isn’t just a story; it’s an experience
While some critics have pointed out limitations in the dramatic development of the supporting characters, it’s important to recognize Senna for what it is: a visual and emotional tribute to the driver’s legacy. The series isn’t intended to be a documentary, but a dramatized narrative that captures Senna’s cultural impact and brings his presence to life in the collective imagination. In that sense, the approach works as a reverential and emotional tribute. For those who remember the joy of watching him win, this series is a gateway to the past.
