An unflinching examination of what is arguably the single most harrowing running event held annually in the United States, the Badwater 135. Do not expect a slick 35mm presentation with sweeping music and a Rocky-esque uplift. There is some rah-rahing but there are definitely some sad stories, too. This is a videotaped documentary-style look at Badwater, a 135 mile run held every July in Death Valley, when temps reach the 120s or higher. The cinematography is actually pretty good and benefits from the scenic desert and mountain locations. You will be witness to several graphic bouts of vomiting, the popping and draining of some truly heinous looking blisters, lots of dazed, limping athletes moaning in obvious (at times excruciating) pain. You'll also sit front and center with the dementia / disorientation which sets in on many athletes after they've stayed up far too long and pushed their bodies beyond the breaking point. While there is no one through line, there are many moving stories of the various maniacs who undertake this crazy run of more than five marathons. But do not be deceived; while many of these athletes' stories are highly inspirational and impressive, they are also frequently far from pretty.
If you're undeterred by the above, then this is a truly unique movie on the subject of pushing the human body and mind to its limits. The results are seemingly random; people you are sure won't finish do while others who seem strong drop out with less than ten miles to go. Still, the documentarian focuses more on the experience and the process rather than on "winners" and "losers." Anyone who has ever pushed themselves to their limits (most everyone on earth, really) will likely find inspiration from these courageous individuals. I'm still not sure I understand why some of these people undertake this event (a lot of time is spent at the end examining this central issue and the theme of pushing the body to its limits), but the drama and emotion of their efforts is real, and that is this movie's greatest strength.
If you're undeterred by the above, then this is a truly unique movie on the subject of pushing the human body and mind to its limits. The results are seemingly random; people you are sure won't finish do while others who seem strong drop out with less than ten miles to go. Still, the documentarian focuses more on the experience and the process rather than on "winners" and "losers." Anyone who has ever pushed themselves to their limits (most everyone on earth, really) will likely find inspiration from these courageous individuals. I'm still not sure I understand why some of these people undertake this event (a lot of time is spent at the end examining this central issue and the theme of pushing the body to its limits), but the drama and emotion of their efforts is real, and that is this movie's greatest strength.