As a 'standard' marathoner and ultramarathoner in the past, I really am inspired by seeing the words, thoughts and feelings of frankly some of the most incredible runners on the planet - the people who dare to take on a foot race longer than the Tour De France (and this race is virtually unknown in comparison to Le Tour).
Watching their growth through their hurt and struggle, and wonderfully, that of other runners in contrast too in this film is staggering - such as a Buddhist monk's long distance quest around a mountain, that seems even more impossible than the main race; and a man running a special ultra to pay homage to his father's heritage and past - is moving and touching, albeit eerie if trying to put yourself into these incredible people's shoes.
However, there's one thread of the film I found in quite bad taste in a way - and that's looking at an indigenous people in Africa that's looking to find a way to continue hunting, and struggling to carry on their way of life with it. This segment actually has little to do with running, and seems slotted in alongside the other segments of the film as the director's personal charity 'focus'.
I don't want to dismiss the struggles of these people and their relationship with their government (important as this is). However the filmmakers conveniently and irritatingly forget to mention that Sri Chimnoy and many of his disciples have been (and are) vegetarian or vegan. Nor is meat consumption and hunting part of many Buddhist sects.
There is a time and a place for exploring their plight for sure, but I didn't feel this was the right place for it. Or entirely respectful, given the Self Transcendence race's roots and ethos.
Still, overall this is well made, and a wonderful window and contribution into this world. Crisp cinematography as well, of some beautiful nature scenery too on the running trails, is a bonus.
Watching their growth through their hurt and struggle, and wonderfully, that of other runners in contrast too in this film is staggering - such as a Buddhist monk's long distance quest around a mountain, that seems even more impossible than the main race; and a man running a special ultra to pay homage to his father's heritage and past - is moving and touching, albeit eerie if trying to put yourself into these incredible people's shoes.
However, there's one thread of the film I found in quite bad taste in a way - and that's looking at an indigenous people in Africa that's looking to find a way to continue hunting, and struggling to carry on their way of life with it. This segment actually has little to do with running, and seems slotted in alongside the other segments of the film as the director's personal charity 'focus'.
I don't want to dismiss the struggles of these people and their relationship with their government (important as this is). However the filmmakers conveniently and irritatingly forget to mention that Sri Chimnoy and many of his disciples have been (and are) vegetarian or vegan. Nor is meat consumption and hunting part of many Buddhist sects.
There is a time and a place for exploring their plight for sure, but I didn't feel this was the right place for it. Or entirely respectful, given the Self Transcendence race's roots and ethos.
Still, overall this is well made, and a wonderful window and contribution into this world. Crisp cinematography as well, of some beautiful nature scenery too on the running trails, is a bonus.