“Snake and Mongoo$e” a nostalgic drag racing film will open Friday, September 6th in just 25 cities, just after the close of the National Hot Rod Association’s (NHRA) U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis on Labor Day weekend.
The limited 25-city release coincides with where NHRA races yearly. before that date you might find the movie at special preview night in conjunction with some local charities.
“Snake & Mongoo$e†tells the story of the groundbreaking accomplishments of drivers Don “the Snake” Prudhomme and Tom “the Mongoose†McEwen in the world of drag racing as well as how the two different figures revolutionized entertainment sports marketing when they attracted Mattel’s Hot Wheels Division to sponsor them.
The film stars Jesse Williams, from Grey’s Anatomy, as “the Snake†and Richard Blake as “the Mongoose.â€
At last year’s SEMA show, NHRA spotlighted this movie and had Prudhomme and McEwen spin a few tales and show off their restored cars, a 1970 ‘Hemi and a Duster.
Tri-five Chevy parts dealer, Dunchuk, got in the act by having Tom McEwen’s 57 Chevy at their booth as well.
Prudhomme and McEwen raced each other for over 30 years. So they had plenty of stories to share with the audience.
The film also has some historic, archival footage included to give it a period vibe. Don Prudhomme continued as a car owner for many years after he stopped racing, and has been able to keep and restore many of his classic rods. many of these cars were used as background for the movie to help add a touch of authenticity.