Senna 2024

We’ve been suggesting some more motor friendly watching for the festive season. This time around, Senna has cropped up on out radar. For a decent day of binge watching or just something for the end of the day.

The Netflix series Senna, which dropped on November 29, 2024, tells the story of Formula 1 legend Ayrton Senna. Over six episodes, it follows his rise from karting in Brazil to becoming a global racing icon, ending with his tragic accident in 1994.

The series goes all out in recreating Senna’s world. They built 22 replica cars to make the racing scenes look authentic, and they even paid attention to tiny details, like featuring the same TAG Heuer watches Senna wore in real life.

But, as with most biopics, some things were dramatized or made up. For example, the series introduces a fictional reporter named Laura Harrison to represent critics of Senna. Some events were also tweaked, like his karting championship and a romantic subplot involving a European baroness.

Check out Senna on Netflix this season

Fans of Formula 1 seem to be enjoying it, especially Gabriel Leone’s portrayal of Senna—he really captures the charisma and intensity that made Senna so legendary. The racing scenes are another highlight; they’re thrilling and visually stunning.

Critics, however, have been a bit more divided. Some say the show feels shallow, with side characters coming off as one-dimensional. Others found it too slow at times, calling it a glossy but somewhat uninspired take on Senna’s life.

If you’re a Formula 1 fan or love sports dramas, Senna is a great pick. It nails the racing action and captures the spirit of Senna’s career, even if it takes some creative liberties along the way. However, if you're looking for a fully accurate, deeply personal look at his life, you might come away wanting more.