True Story of the “Mad Canadian” Speeds Into Theatres in an Inspiring New Sports Drama
One of Canada’s most incredible true stories is heading to the big screen.
“The Stunt Driver” tells the remarkable story of Ken Carter, the fearless Montreal stunt driver known as the “Mad Canadian,” whose dream of ending his career with a record-breaking rocket car jump captured the imagination of an entire nation.
Directed and written by acclaimed Canadian filmmaker Michael Dowse, the film stars Jay Baruchel as Carter, alongside Ben Foster and Ed Helms. Mongrel Media will distribute the film in Canada.
The True Story Behind Canada’s Most Daring Stunt
Set in the mid-1970s, The Stunt Driver follows Ken Carter (Jay Baruchel), a world champion stunt driver determined to achieve what many believed was impossible.
After decades of thrilling audiences with death-defying performances, Carter sets his sights on one final spectacle—launching a rocket-powered car more than a mile across the St. Lawrence River.
With his career nearing its end, Carter sees the jump as more than just another stunt. It’s an opportunity to secure financial success, cement his legacy, and become an international superstar.
But chasing such an impossible dream comes at a cost.
Battling personal struggles, mounting public skepticism, and the enormous risks involved, Carter assembles an ambitious team that includes a top sports manager and leading rocket car engineers, all while the National Film Board of Canada documents the historic attempt.
The Stunt Driver
- Director: Michael Dowse
- Starring: Jay Baruchel, Ed Helms, Ben Foster, Laurence Leboeuf, Dan Bakkedahl, Joe Cobden, Marc Beaupré
- Genre: Action, Comedy
A Story of Ambition, Determination and Redemption
More than a high-octane spectacle, The Stunt Driver explores the emotional journey of a man driven by an unwavering belief in himself.
The film examines the sacrifices, setbacks, and personal demons that accompanied Carter’s relentless pursuit of greatness, painting the portrait of an underdog determined to prove that impossible dreams are worth chasing.
Cast
The film features an acclaimed cast led by:
- Jay Baruchel as Ken Carter
- Ben Foster as Evel Knievel
- Ed Helms as Dick Keller
Michael Dowse Brings a Canadian Legend to Life
Known for balancing humor, heart, and memorable characters, Michael Dowse writes and directs The Stunt Driver, bringing one of Canada’s most fascinating real-life stories to a new generation of audiences.
By blending thrilling stunt sequences with a deeply personal character study, Dowse captures both the excitement and emotional stakes behind Carter’s legendary quest.
Who Was Ken Carter?
Nicknamed the “Mad Canadian,” Ken Carter became famous during the 1960s and 1970s for performing spectacular automobile stunts throughout North America.
His most ambitious goal was to leap a rocket-powered car across the St. Lawrence River near Montreal—a feat unlike anything attempted before. The event drew massive public attention and became one of Canada’s most talked-about sporting spectacles, while the National Film Board chronicled the build-up to the historic jump.
His determination, larger-than-life personality, and willingness to risk everything have made him one of Canada’s most memorable daredevils.
The Stunt Driver
Genre
Drama
Based On
The true story of Canadian stunt driver Ken Carter
Written and Directed By
Michael Dowse
Distributed in Canada By
Mongrel Media
