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LE MANS 1955 : the unauthorized investigation

A dive into the biggest tragedy of motor racing, through the eyes of the people who lived through it.

An ongoing investigation as Le Mans celebrated its 100th edition in 2023.

On June 11th, 1955 at 6:28 p.m., the legendary 24Hrs of Le Mans race turned into a nightmare and became the deadliest in the history of motor sport. The Mercedes car n°20, driven by the Frenchman Pierre Levegh, collided with an Austin Healey before taking off in the crowded stands of the circuit. Official report: 82 dead and more than 120 injured. Despite this accident, the race continued, without the German team which deserted Le Mans overnight after withdrawing and ended the next day with the bitter victory of Jaguar.
Today, 65 years after the tragedy, numerous questions remain despite investigation, but one remains more important: why would the files be classified and sealed until 2031 when they should have been made public a long time ago?

Genre: documentaries, feature-length

Format: 1x90'

Original title: Le Mans 55 : Une tragédie française

Directed by: Emmanuel Reyé

Written by: Emmanuel Reyé, Aurore Aubin

Produced by: Federation (Isabelle Dagnac)

Original Broadcasters: CANAL+

Language: French

Year of production: 2022

International Sales: Federation Studios

Festivals & awards: Best International Documentary at the Seattle Film Festival and official selection at the HotDocs Canadian International Documentary Festival ; Official selection at The Venice TV Awards Festival 2024 for "Best Documentary"

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