Derby Dogs

The film explains the origins of the trolley (soapbox) derby in New Zealand, tied to a man who goes off to war and suffers an unfortunate incident before he leaves home. The derby is hinted to grow into a community tradition. Nelson is established as the town where this story will anchor future races.

Years later, relatives of the original man compete in the derby, which has become Nelson’s major event. Ben’s father is famous for never winning, yet his legend fuels local pride. The race draws sponsors and families to a competition that defines the town.

Ben’s father builds a trolley and dreams of his son carrying on the legacy, but he dies before Ben can see him race. Ben’s mother takes over the family boat-washing business and resists letting him race. The family tensions set the stage for Ben’s quiet rebellion.

To pursue racing without his mother’s blessing, Ben plans in secret and enlists his mechanically talented friend Jeff. He hides his preparations from family and friends while juggling school and chores. The secret scheme triggers a chain of small deceptions.

Jeff wants Ben’s help to win a date with Amanda, the neighborhood girl. Ben’s efforts to arrange it backfire and create an embarrassing social snag. The mishap foreshadows later complications around trust and secrecy.

Ben faces harassment from the neighborhood bullies Shane and Shannon, whose father Wayne owns a car dealership and sponsors the race. Wayne believes victory justifies bending the rules as long as officials stay unaware. The rivalry sets up a high-stakes dynamic for the Derby.

This year, Shannon takes over from Shane as driver, raising the stakes for the competition. Wayne’s team aims to beat Ben by any means, clean or dirty. The pressure of sponsorship intensifies the conflict.

Ben needs money to build a proper trolley, and Mr. Lumsden, a nerdy teacher who wants to date Ben’s mom, offers technical help but money remains an obstacle. He hints at using a loan to cover costs. The link between education, romance, and risk emerges.

To secure funds, Ben and Jeff deal with Stewie, a loan shark who has an enforcer named Slug. If repayment slips, consequences follow, creating pressure and fear. The financing saga shows how desperation can test friendships.

Ben and Jeff brainstorm and build their trolley, pushing for better design and speed than rivals. They confront mechanical challenges but persevere, using Jeff’s talent and Ben’s determination. The project becomes a test of trust and teamwork.

Shane and Shannon intensify cheating attempts to ensure Ben’s defeat, threatening not only the race but Ben’s plans and friendships. The conflict highlights the ethical choices each person must make under pressure. The community watches as tactics grow increasingly dirty.

Race day arrives amid mounting tension as Ben and Jeff face sabotage and secrecy. They must improvise to stay competitive while navigating the murky performance politics surrounding sponsorship. The outcome hangs in the balance.

During the unfolding events, Jeff uncovers the truth about Amanda, complicating his motivation and straining his friendship with Ben. The revelation echoes the earlier misguided plan that started as a harmless crush. Trust and loyalty are tested as the derby unfolds.

The film closes by posing questions about whether Ben and Jeff will succeed and what happens with Amanda. The outcome remains unresolved, inviting viewers to imagine the final result. The town’s summer tradition ends with a sense of unfinished business.