A Brazilian motor-racing legend, considered by many the greatest driver to ever live, exploded into Formula One in 1984. Compilations of archival footage reveal a physical and spiritual quest for perfection, both on and off track, until the tragic events of Imola in 1994.

In this exhilarating portrait of a sporting icon, Asif Kapadia displays a unique approach to the documentary form. Ambitiously constructed like a nail-biting thriller, the appeal and artistry of Ayrton Senna is made deeply compelling and profoundly moving for even motor-racing novices.