NZIFF – The Crash Reel – Review

Lucy Walker’s The Crash Reel is as heartwrenching as it is heartwarming.

The story centres around pro snowboarder Kevin Pearce, who suffers a brain injury following an accident in 2009. The journey of his rise, fall and recovery is told in this remarkable film.

The film plays some awesome clips of magnificent athleticism, showing Kevin before his accident. This gives us a glimpse of why this adrenalin-fuelled sport is so addictive. However, his successful career and dreams of representing the USA in the Olympics are cut short in one devastating second.

Walker delicately gives us access to this horrific event. Kevin is surrounded by his friends and family as they deal with the physical, mental and social implications of his accident. The close, personal and sensitive nature of the film  enables the viewer to truly share intimate moments with the family.

 

Pearce Family photo

The open and honest depiction of his recovery, and the effects his brain injury have had on him and his family have rarely been seen on film. The medical explanations explore the implications of traumatic brain injury, and allow a voice to those who live with, and adapt to, this life altering event. Kevin struggles to come to terms with his medical condition, as did I as a viewer.

The film raises some interesting points about the nature of the extreme sports competitions like the X Games. However, it doesn’t conclude them, which leaves it open for discussion. Is there a certain blood lust within the crowd pushing for crazier and riskier tricks? Does the competition, rivalry and sponsorship money spur these young athletes to hedonistically dangerous levels, pushing them to outdo each other and ultimately risk their lives?

This film’s success lies within its honesty and subtlety.  With the doors to their life flung wide open, we meet the Pearce family; Mum, Dad and his three brothers. Dave, one of Kevin’s brothers, has Down Syndrome, which he describes as ‘Up Syndrom’. His interviews and exchanges with his brother show an anxiety and honesty that make his scenes truly compelling.

My stomach was in knots during the many phenomenal snowboarding clips, but it was equally so for the incredible scenes of raw emotion. This documentary confronts us with the reality of almost losing the one that you love

The Crash Reel is a story that features tragedy, highlights life’s fragility, and consequently expresses love, loyalty and friendship. Ultimately it’s about acceptance. An inspirational cautionary tale and a beautiful film on the human spirit.

It is no surprise that this film comes from an acclaimed documentary filmmaker in Lucy Walker. She is now a supporter of the #LoveYourBrain campaign on social media, campaigning for better awareness and education of traumatic brain injury.

The Crash Reel is showing in Auckland 24 July 4pm &  6pm and in Wellington 1 August.

Reviewed by Ingrid Grenar

 

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