I Am Dale Earnhardt

Originally broadcast on Spike TV, Jeff Cvitkovic's documentary is the latest entry in the cable channel's series of I Am… documentaries about public figures. Here, beloved yet enigmatic NASCAR star Dale Earnhardt's (1951-2001) iconic achievements in auto racing are celebrated. Nicknamed “The Intimidator” due to his violently aggressive driving style, Earnhardt often essentially forced other vehicles into the infield grass if he was unable to pass a car on the track. Earnhardt's lack of gentlemanly good manners did not endear him to many competitors, but his command of the race track was peerless: he racked up 76 Winston Cup race wins in a career running from 1975 up until his death in a crash during the final lap of the 2001 Daytona 500. Earnhardt's notoriety behind the wheel earned him a large fan base, and his black car with the bold white “3” painted on its sides was easy to spot at NASCAR events. Off the track, Earnhardt had his share of emotional highs and lows (including three marriages), but this documentary features mostly complimentary recollections from NASCAR legends including Jimmie Johnson, Jeff Gordon, Richard Childress, and, of course, his son Dale Earnhardt Jr. Extras include extended interviews and bonus racing footage. Certain to appeal to NASCAR fans, this is recommended. Aud: P. (P. Hall)