Race

The name of the movie alludes to a cute ambiguity. But that changes nothing about the fact the first half of the film is pretty boring, only for it to move to some good performances in Germany, when it finally becomes somewhat interesting. Unfortunately, even so it is still only an average biopic. (2017-02-07)

Sports films related to Berlin 1936 are an absolutely crucial topic for me. This subcategory includes a vast array of biographies, documentaries, debates, and other materials, because those summer Olympic Games influenced the lives of countless personalities of that time and have become a subject of analytical research by experts across many fields. This time, we have the biography of Jesse Owens (1913-1980), the legendary African American who had a tough time in the USA (remember, his grandparents were slaves) and was also unwelcome in the Third Reich. Yet, he triumphed. This alone is material for a great drama. Nevertheless, Stephen Hopkins didn't just scratch the surface or create a superficial film; he tackled the subject deeply. Alongside the story of Owens' career, brilliantly portrayed by Stephan James, we also have a genius depiction of Leni Riefenstahl, played by Carice van Houten, who for the first time portrayed her as a real person who found her way to her film despite constant conflicts with the Nazi elite. And last but not least, there is the luxurious performance by Jeremy Irons, who plays Avery Brundage, another challenging character of the International Olympic Committee member who replaced Ernest Lee Jahncke (an opponent of holding the Games in the Third Reich). (2024-07-10)

I'm not sure if it was the film's intention, but it managed to showcase flaws on all sides, so you somehow feel that in those histories, nobody is perfect and nobody is an absolute jerk. Except maybe Goebbels. Everyone has their flaws, but still, something beautiful shines through here. Sportsmanship, friendship, and hope. I can't help it, this movie got me. And I'll admit, I'd like to meet Leni. (2016-05-20)