Free screening of 3: THE DALE EARNHARDT STORY

Posted April 1, 2012 at 4:52pm

Not far off Dale Earnhardt Blvd in Kannapolis, the legend of one of racing's greatest drivers will return to a big screen this May.

On the eve of the Sprint All Star Race, enjoy ESPN's "3: The Dale Earnhardt Story"  under the stars in Village Park at 8:45 p.m. Friday, May 18.

The event is hosted by Modern Film Fest, in conjunction with Kannapolis Parks and Recreation.

The film, starring Barry Pepper as the legendary race car driver known simply as The Intimidator, follows Earnhardt from his early days in Kannapolis through his 7 NASCAR championships before his death in 2001 during the last lap of the Daytona 500. 

The movie was shot in North Carolina and includes many familiar backdrops in Cabarrus County and Kannapolis.

The biographical story of Dale Earnhardt, Sr. starts with his young life and growing up with his father, Ralph, who raced for a living, but initially wanted more for his son. When Dale quits high school to start driving full time, his father aids him and shows a reluctant pride when he is initially successful. Armed with many of his father's philosophies, Dale pushed himself to be the best. His aggressive track mannerisms earned himself fans and detractors.

Fellow racer Neil Bonnett was one of those long time friends and whose death deeply affected Dale. Darrell Waltrip clearly was a detractor and the two men's rivalry is clearly depicted. Off the track, Dale's determination to make it impacts two marriages. Third wife Theresa was closer to racing and met Dale when he had started his rise into the Winston Cup circuit. The story also looks at his relationship with his children.

Watch the first eight minutes of the film here: