The Race (2002 film)

The Race is a 2002 made-for-television film directed by Richard Pearce and starring Sisqó, Julia Stiles, and Bill Nunn. The film, produced for MTV, tells the story of Jesse Tresvant (Sisqó), a talented but troubled street racer in Detroit. Jesse dreams of escaping his dangerous life and becoming a professional race car driver. He meets Leigh (Julia Stiles), a college student who is drawn to his charisma and talent. Leigh's father, a wealthy businessman, offers Jesse an opportunity to compete in a high-stakes race that could change his life forever. However, Jesse must overcome personal demons, including his involvement with a local crime boss and his own self-destructive tendencies, to seize his chance at a better future. The film explores themes of ambition, social class, and redemption against the backdrop of Detroit's street racing scene.