Jay Baruchel and Ben Foster star in a comedy-drama about a stunt driver attempting an almost impossible feat. It follows his attempt to turn the dangerous stunt into reality despite public skepticism and technical obstacles. The film also explores his personal struggles and rivalry with fellow daredevil Evel Knievel.
The Stunt Driver is now available on digital platforms. After premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival, the film opened in theaters on September 25, 2026, before arriving on Amazon Video and iTunes. It currently holds a 74% Tomatometer score on Rotten Tomatoes from 42 reviews.
The film draws inspiration from an unusual chapter in Canadian stunt history. The comedy-drama also stars Ed Helms, Laurence Leboeuf, and Dan Bakkedahl.
What to know about the true story behind Jay Baruchel and Ben Foster’s new comedy
The film follows Canadian stunt driver Ken Carter, known as the “Mad Canadian.” In the 1970s, he planned to use a rocket-powered car to jump a mile-wide stretch of the St. Lawrence River. The stunt promised international fame and a substantial payday.
Baruchel plays Carter as he struggles to bring the daring plan to fruition. He seeks help from car designer and technician Dick Keller, played by Helms, to develop the rocket-powered vehicle and construct a ramp for the attempt. However, the ambitious plan faces major technical and logistical obstacles.
Foster plays American daredevil Evel Knievel, Carter’s rival. Their competition adds tension as Carter tries to establish himself in the world of daredevil stunts.
The story draws from a real event that captured public attention. The National Film Board of Canada’s 1981 documentary The Devil at Your Heels chronicled the preparations for Carter’s planned jump across the St. Lawrence River.
Michael Dowse wrote and directed The Stunt Driver and produced it alongside Jennifer Wilson. Jay Baruchel, Joe Iacono, Andrew Frank, Cameron MacLaren, Dave Bishop, James Pugh, and Lisa Wolofsky also serve as executive producers.
The Stunt Driver is available to rent or buy digitally.
Originally reported on ComingSoon.net.
