Watch Time Trial

Time Trial is a 2017 documentary-style sports film directed by Finlay Pretsell that offers viewers an inside look at cycling, a sport that requires great physical endurance and mental grit. The film stars Thomas Dekker, a professional Dutch cyclist, and David Millar, a retired British cyclist, both of whom have competed in the Tour de France.

The film follows Dekker as he prepares for his last race, which was the Dutch National Time Trial championship, before he retired from cycling. The filmmakers use a mix of interviews, candid camera shots, race footage, and personal diary entries to give the viewer an intimate perspective on the sport and Dekker's journey. Throughout the film, the viewer gets a sense of the physical and psychological challenges that come with professional cycling.

The film explores the idea of time, both as a theme in cycling and as a concept in life. Dekker reflects on how time moves quickly, and how he needs to race against time to win. Time is a fundamental element of cycling because in time trial events, racers aim to complete the designated course in the shortest time possible. The film shows Dekker's time trial training routine and his mindset towards it. As a professional cyclist, Dekker is obsessed with time, and he wants to control it. Dekker is motivated to win, but he knows there is a limit to how much he can control regarding the result. In the end, he realizes that his time in cycling is coming to an end, and he has to make the most of what is left.

The film highlights the mental and emotional challenges that professional cyclists face. Millar, a former pro cyclist, describes his experience with doping and how it affected his mental state. Dekker is also struggling with depression, which is common among cyclists. Dekker's team manager tries to get him to see a therapist or take medication, but Dekker believes that he can manage his condition on his own. The film shows that mental toughness, discipline, and resilience are vital qualities for professional cyclists, as they have to push through physical pain and mental exhaustion.

The film also explores the relationship between cyclists and their equipment. The bikes are essential tools for success in cycling, and they can make a significant difference in a time trial. The film shows the importance of having a good bike that is well-tuned and properly fitted. Dekker works closely with his mechanics to make sure his bike is perfect before the race. They spend hours adjusting the handlebars, pedals, and seat height to get the best fit for his body. This attention to detail is necessary to achieve optimal performance.

At its core, Time Trial is a movie about the beauty of cycling. It captures the grit and determination of professional cyclists, their resilience in the face of challenges, and their dedication to their craft. The film's breathtaking and visually stunning footage of the cycling races will leave viewers awe-inspired. The film also sheds light on the dark side of the sport, such as doping and the mental toll it takes on the athletes.

In conclusion, Time Trial is a must-watch for avid cyclists and sports enthusiasts alike. The film is well-made, and the direction and editing add visual interest and emotional depth to the story. It gives an inside look into the world of professional cycling and the athleticism, grit, and determination that is required to succeed. The film is a testament to the power of human endeavor and will leave viewers inspired and motivated to chase their dreams.

Time Trial is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.