Watch Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist

Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist is a 2014 documentary film directed by James Erskine that explores the life and untimely death of Italian cyclist Marco Pantani. The film features interviews with his family, friends, and fellow cyclists including Greg LeMond, Bradley Wiggins, Evgeni Berzin, and others. The documentary opens with footage of Pantani's victory in the 1998 Tour de France, where he became the first Italian to win the race in 34 years. From there, the film delves into Pantani's early years and his rise to fame as one of the most talented and charismatic cyclists of his generation. Through interviews with those who knew him best, the documentary paints a picture of a deeply passionate and driven athlete who was adored by fans around the world.

However, Pantani's career was not without its controversies. The film explores the accusations of doping that followed him throughout his career, and examines the pressures that led him to turn to performance-enhancing drugs. It also chronicles his suspension from racing in 1999 after failing a drug test, and the toll that the ordeal took on his physical and mental health.

Throughout the film, there is a sense of sadness and tragedy that permeates Pantani's story. Despite his achievements as a cyclist, he struggled with depression and addiction, and his death in 2004 from a cocaine overdose was a shock to those who knew him. The documentary does not shy away from the darker aspects of his life, but it also highlights his impact on the sport of cycling and the enduring affection that his fans have for him.

One of the strengths of Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist is its focus on the people who knew Pantani the best. The film features emotional interviews with his family members, including his father who speaks candidly about the difficulties he faced in watching his son's decline. There are also interviews with fellow cyclists who raced alongside Pantani, providing a unique perspective on his talent and competitive spirit.

In addition to the interviews, the film also features stunning footage of Pantani racing, as well as archival footage of his rise to fame. The visuals help to convey the excitement and energy of professional cycling, and serve as a vivid reminder of Pantani's skill as a cyclist.

Overall, Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist is a moving and powerful documentary that explores the life and legacy of Marco Pantani. While there are moments of sadness and heartbreak, the film celebrates Pantani's achievements as a cyclist and his enduring impact on the sport. The interviews with his family and fellow cyclists provide a deep and personal insight into his life, making the documentary a must-see for anyone interested in the history of professional cycling.

Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist is a 2014 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0.