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Murderball Illusionaire
Rivalry. Sex. Tension. Action. Triumph. Humor. Murderball is a wildly entertaining movie roller coaster ride through the lives of men who’ve been to hell and back. After becoming quadriplegic through vehicle accidents, childhood diseases, or fist fights, these guys overcame their limitations to become strong, tough-willed, world-class athletes.
The game of Murderball, also called wheelchair or quad rugby, pits teams in specially armored chairs against each other. The object is simple: get the ball across the line. With fierce players ready to ram and tip you over, getting to the line is not as simple. These gladiators take it to the mat! The teams are balanced through ranking based on each player’s range of mobility. The players do not wear helmets, which seems asinine in an age where even ordinary infants wear helmets to protect their heads during development, but they do wear gloves augmented with resin to help with ball handling.
The documentary follows the rivalry between Team USA and Team Canada as they compete for the gold in the Paralympics. USA player Andy Kohn tells the story of a mistaken supporter who thought the team was going to the Special Olympics, and patiently explains the difference between a competition for mental disabilities vs. a competition for physical disabilities, along the lines of, "We're not looking for a pat on the back and a certificate at the end of day. We're here for the gold!"
Former Team USA player Joe Soares coaches for Canada after he's been cut from the US Team, which results in a lot of friction between Joe and the US players. Jokingly referring to himself as the Benedict Arnold of the quad rugby world, he brushes off accusations of betraying his country. Out of a lineup of bad-asses on wheels, Joe has little to show for his experience except a bad attitude.
Murderball is an inspirational, captivating fireball of assaults on all the senses. This is edge of your seat entertainment!
For a list of theatres screening Murderball, check out MurderballMovie.com.
Saturday July 30, 2005
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