Overview
It isn't often that a snowboarding documentary is described as "a story about the mysteries of the human brain", and so when it is, one cannot help but sit up and take notice. Thankfully, the recognition given to The Crash Reel is much deserved.
The film tells the engrossing tale of professional snowboarder Kevin Pearce, who was well on his way to winning gold at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics before a horrifying injury suffered during training left him hospitalised in a deep coma. After fighting his way back, he decides he wants to strap the board back on despite advice from his doctors that one more blow to his head could kill him and the frank admission from his brother David, "I just don't want you to die."
Twice Oscar-nominated director Lucy Walker (Waste Land) rides the emotional slopes with filmmaking guile, knowing exactly when not to stop, resulting in a hard-hitting and inspirational tale that snowboarding has never seen the likes of previously.
Thanks to Hopscotch Films, we have five double passes to give away to a special screening of The Crash Reel on July 29, which will feature Kevin Pearce in a Q&A after the film. The screening starts at 6.30pm at the Hayden Orpheum Cremorne. To be in the running, subscribe to our newsletter (if you haven't already) and then email hello@concreteplayground.com.au with your name and address.
