“Spirit of the Marathon” is the first ever non-fiction feature film to capture the drama and essence of the famed 26.2 mile running event. Filmed on four continents, the movie brings together a diverse cast of amateur athletes and marathon luminaries.
More than a sports movie, “Spirit of the Marathon” is an inspirational journey of perseverance and personal triumph; a spectacle that will be embraced by runners and non-runners alike.
“Spirit of the Marathon” traces six separate lives and journeys as each prepares and faces the challenges of the Chicago Marathon: Deena Kastor is a 2004 Olympic Bronze Medalist and holds multiple world ruining records; Ryan Bradley is a recreational runner with dreams of competing in the Boston Marathon; Leah Caille is a first-time marathoner picking up the pieces of her life following a crumbled marriage; Gerald Meyers is a 70 year old four-time marathoner who runs for the joy of it; Daniel Njenga is a 29 year old World Class Marathoner from Kenya; Lori O’Connor is a first-time marathoner.
The film also features interviews with running luminaries such as Joan Benoit Samuelson (First women’s Olympic Marathon Champion), Bill Rodgers (Four-time Boston and New York City Marathon Champion), Kathrine Switzer (Womens running pioneer), Paula Radcliffe (World record holder in the women’s marathon), Paul Tergat (Former world record holder in the mens marathon) and Grete Waitz (Nine-time New York City Marathon Champion).
This docu has been greeted with enthusiasm and has gained quite a following, grossing $1 million at the U.S. box office playing only once on two Thursday nights, when it was distributed via satellite in early 2008.
“Spirit of the Marathon” is playing during Docuweek at the IFC Center in Manhattan August
8-14 and as part of Docuweek in Los Angeles, August 22-28 at Arclight Sherman Oaks.
