Universal Pictures has released a batch of high-resolution images from director Ron Howard’s new film Rush.  The film takes place in the world of Formula One racing, and chronicles the 1970s rivalry between Austrian driver Niki Lauda (Daniel Brühl) and British driver James Hunt (Chris Hemsworth)—primarily during the 1976 season.  The pic has earned strong marks during its premiere screenings at the 2013 Toronto International Film Festival, and I’m eager to see the film myself.

Hit the jump to take a look at the images.  The film also stars Olivia Wilde and Alexandra Maria Lara.  Rush opens in theaters on September 27th.

Click on any image for high-resolution.

Here’s the official synopsis for Rush:

Set against the sexy and glamorous golden age of Formula 1 racing, RUSH portrays the exhilarating true story of two of the greatest rivals the world has ever witnessed—handsome English playboy James Hunt and his methodical, brilliant opponent, Niki Lauda.  Taking us into their personal lives on and off the track, RUSH follows the two drivers as they push themselves to the breaking point of physical and psychological endurance, where there is no shortcut to victory and no margin for error.