Netflix’s new six-part drama about the life of Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna, arguably the greatest racing driver of all time, is attracting comment from some quarters. The Netflix show is getting rave reviews from critics and fans alike. However, one scene in particular has caused some fans to have a sensible chuckle.
The six-episode drama depicts not only Senna’s career, but also breaks down his relationships and death. One scene in an early episode showed Senna honing his craft at Snetterton circuit in Norfolk in the UK, where he took his first steps as a professional racer.
Viewers spotted something wrong with the scene. Norfolk is famously flat, with an average elevation that barely breaks 60m above sea level. So you can immediately see the issue.
Not exactly known for its majestic ranges of soaring peeks, Norfolk. Of course, the comments soon began to flow on social media:
“We think it’s pretty accurate. The monumental, Himalaya-rivalling peaks of Old Buckenham are frequently visible on a clear day.”
“I live about a mile away and regularly suffer from altitude sickness.”
“Worked at Snetterton circuit and lived just over that mountain. Hell of a bike ride!”
“That’s my next skiing holiday sorted then – Norfolk Alps it is – no airport queues and less than two hours drive.”
In the early 1980s, Senna lived in a bungalow in Eaton on the edge of Norwich while driving for Ralph Firman’s Van Diemen company, based at Snetterton, before moving on to Team Lotus. The real Snetterton circuit was used to double for many famous worldwide circuits for Ron Howard’s 2013 film Rush.
Senna is streaming now on Netflix.