Demon on Wheels
Directed by Christina Eliopoulos
Demon on Wheels is the story of a rugged Catskill Mountains man, an incredibly fast car, and the long, rough ride toward an impossible dream. Mike Ondish — daredevil, bootlegger, inventor and master mechanic —- drove the Demon, a one-of-a-kind 1968 Mustang, custom-modified by Le Mans Champion and automotive legend Carroll Shelby. Mike hopped the Demon up to 863 horsepower on the rear wheel and fed her an elixir of gasoline, naphthalene and home-brewed grain alcohol. He was wanted by State Troopers in two counties for racing and rum-running through the sleepy Catskill Mountains hamlets at 170 mph. He chased death on the back roads, tempting heaven and raising hell. Until one day, overwhelmed by his demons, he put the car in hiding. It was 1975.
Thirty years later, Mike is still in Margaretville, working hard to make ends meet. One day, a strange feeling comes over him. The Mustang — that talisman from his youth, from carefree and happier times —seemed to be beckoning him. Mike now vows to rebuild and restore his car and race her on a championship track. His lifelong friends and neighbors in town pledge their help and rally around him. Even Mike’s former nemesis, retired State Trooper Glen George, now vows to lend a hand. Mike will overcome incredible odds, sacrifice his life’s savings and his business on his quest to restore the Demon. More importantly, Mike restores himself, finding his youthful vigor, and a sense of peace and optimism. He rediscovers his heritage as a Choctaw Indian, and seeks out tribal elders to learn more about his forebears. He in turn, inspires his community, giving everyone a sense of pride, renewal and hopefulness.
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Last updated: Sep. 30, 2011 