Despite the Kardashian culture that dominates the media at present, there are still a few independent souls who long to bring the beauty of the past to the present. The early builders of custom cars have been viewed as icons by automotive enthusiasts, but very few have made into the mainstream or become a household name.
Probably, the closest one to become household name is George Barris. For those who grew up watching the Munsters or have seen it on reruns, Barris was the mastermind behind the custom cars featured on the show. We grew watching Barris’ art drive across our television screens, but what about Gene Winfield?
If you have never heard of Winfield, perhaps you have seen some his art grace the silver screen in the Back to the Futer series? Winfield was behind the Doc’s time traveling DeLorean? Prior to the Back to the Future series, Winfield was one of the great custom car builders and is known for various techniques, such as the “Winfield Fade.”
In 2011, Kings of Kustoms was released and many got their first introduction to Winfield. Along with being the artist behind the creation scene stealing cars, Winfield is racer at heart. The film King of Kustoms documents Winfield’s numerous achievements and adventures.
In 2010, Winfield lent his skills and approval to Faith Granger in independent film, Deuce of Spades. This is film tries to bring an authenticity to automotive film genre. During the restoration of the star car, a 1932 Ford, Granger was fortunate enough to receive assistance from a couple members of Winfield’s race team. These team members helped Granger remove all of the old wiring from the ’32 and then complete the rewiring process.
Deuce of Spades is the perfect mix of racing, hot rods, and heartache. Granger continues to pursue the automotive film genre and in the follow documentary for Deuce of Spades she interviews the legendary Winfield. Granger, like Winfield continues pursue the art of custom cars. Her documentary will feature an in depth interview with creative genius and Bonneville racer, Winfield.
Having made the trek to Fillmore, California for the premiere of Deuce of Spades was an adventure. A friend offered to take me as a plus one to the premiere along with a ride in a Shelby. Granger selected the sleepy little town of Fillmore for the debut of her masterpiece.
The carshow was fantastic and the number of fans that attended were truly diehards. In the downtown area custom cars lined the streets, while fans of the cars, the art, the film, and of course, Gene Winfield were anxiously awaiting the debut of the film.
Deuce of Spades is gradually gaining steam in the area of cult film and her recently edited documentary is sure to enhance it’s following. She has a keen eye for staying correct to her subject matter just as Winfield has the vision for a properly chopped lead sled. Like the rest of the hot rod loving world, we are anxiously awaiting the release of the documentary and too see what Winfield has up his sleeve.