Ep 1. Steve McQueen's "Mount Everest" of Racing

Le Mans: Racing is Everything is a five-part documentary series that chronicles the world's most prestigious endurance racing event - the Le Mans 24 Hours. The series provides an in-depth look at the history, culture, and grueling nature of the race which tests the limits of man and machine.

In the first episode of the series titled "Steve McQueen's "Mount Everest" of Racing," Le Mans is introduced as the ultimate test of endurance for both car and driver. The episode opens with a montage of scenes from the 1971 film "Le Mans" starring Steve McQueen, which immortalized the race on celluloid and cemented its status as the pinnacle of motorsport.

The documentary then shifts its focus to the present and the arrival of the teams and drivers at the Circuit de la Sarthe in France for the 2016 race. The cameras follow the Porsche and Audi teams, the two dominant manufacturers in recent years, as they prepare for battle. The drivers, including former F1 World Champion Mark Webber and Le Mans legends Tom Kristensen and Andre Lotterer, share their thoughts and emotions about the race ahead.

The documentary gives an insight into the grueling nature of the Le Mans 24 Hours, which tests all aspects of a racing driver's skillset. The race begins in the afternoon and runs through the night, with teams and drivers having to manage their energy levels and stay mentally sharp for the entirety of the event. The episode showcases the unique challenges that arise during the night, including reduced visibility and the need to navigate traffic from slower cars.

One of the key storylines of the episode revolves around the return of Ford to Le Mans after a 50-year absence. The American manufacturer has brought a team of four GT cars and a star-studded lineup of drivers, including former IndyCar champion Juan Pablo Montoya and current Le Mans winner Olivier Pla. The documentary provides an insight into the tremendous pressure on the team and the expectations of a company that has poured millions of dollars into their Le Mans campaign.

The episode also provides an insight into the unique culture and history of Le Mans. The Circuit de la Sarthe, with its long straights and tight chicanes, has been the site of some of the most iconic battles in motorsport history. The documentary features interviews with some of the race's greatest legends, including five-time winner Derek Bell, who share their memories and experiences of the event.

Finally, the episode looks at the legacy of Steve McQueen and his love affair with Le Mans. McQueen was not just a Hollywood actor, but also a passionate motorsport fan who competed in the race himself in 1970. The story of McQueen's pursuit of a film that would accurately capture the epic nature of Le Mans is told through interviews with those who were involved in the making of the movie. The documentary shows how McQueen's vision was ultimately realized, with the film cementing the race's place in popular culture.

In conclusion, the first episode of Le Mans: Racing is Everything is a thrilling introduction to the world's most prestigious endurance racing event. The documentary provides a comprehensive overview of the race, its history, and its unique nature, while also showcasing the intense competition and human drama that unfolds over 24 hours. The episode sets the stage for an epic battle on the racing track, with all the intensity and emotion that only the Le Mans 24 Hours can provide.