Watch unReal
- PG
- 2015
- 47 min
-
7.3 (363)
UnReal is a breathtaking documentary film from 2015 that introduces its audience to some of the world's most talented mountain bikers, each of them pushing the limits of what is humanly possible in this extreme sport. Co-directed by Canadian mountain bike filmmaker Darren McCullough and award-winning filmmaker Kurt Sorge, the film presents stunning imagery of mountain biker's journeys through remote and untouched landscapes, which are as beautiful as they are dangerous.
The film opens with a breathtaking scene that sets the tone for the rest of the movie. A mountain biker, Graham Agassiz, is seen high above the skyline, navigating his way down a steep, rocky slope that's littered with rocks and debris. What follows is a journey across some of the most beautiful, yet equally treacherous, mountain terrain imaginable. Viewers get to see an awe-inspiring range of jumps, downhills and tricks, each performed with skill and courage. These never-before-seen stunts are not just exhilarating but truly a feast for the eyes.
The film takes viewers on a journey to remote locations that can only be accessed by helicopter or off-road vehicle. The landscapes are pristine, untouched and absolutely stunning. The cinematography is mesmerizing, capturing every twist and turn, every drop, and every jump with amazing clarity. The riders are fearless, and the landscape provides the perfect backdrop for their incredible stunts.
In addition to showcasing the best mountain biking talent the world has to offer, the film also delves into the personalities of these men, who have built their lives around the sport. These young men have a passion for biking that's easy to see. They take risks, put it all on the line, and go all out to achieve what appears to be humanly impossible.
The filmmakers capture every moment of the riders' journey. From intricate bike tricks that require split-second timing to heart-stopping near misses, every scene is filmed to perfection. The intensity is palpable, especially when viewers see the riders launching themselves off of high cliffs, only to land on narrow ledges, barely catching enough traction to make it to safety.
The film is not just about the thrills of mountain biking. The riders discuss their process and creative vision, reminding viewers that this is an art form as much as a sport. They also touch on the different philosophies that drive their sport, and how it means something different to each of them. The movie explores the beautiful, yet dangerous, relationship between man and nature. As the riders navigate through steep rock faces, narrow ridges and rocky terrain, viewers get an appreciation of the incredible strength, dexterity and mental fortitude needed to master this extreme sport.
While the riders make the jaw-dropping stunts look relatively easy, the film provides reminders of how dangerous the sport can be, with plenty of scenes of crashes, broken bones, and other injuries. However, these scenes don't detract from the film's beauty, intensity or the riders' passion for the sport. Rather, they serve as a reminder of the risks taken by these riders and the bravery required to push the limits of their abilities.
UnReal is a must-see for anyone interested in extreme sports, and especially mountain biking. It seeks to create a new standard of beauty in move-making in the genre and takes the genre to a new realm. The film provides a unique glimpse into the lives of those people who have dedicated themselves to mastering this sport, and the unparalleled passion, skill and creativity that they bring to their work. Here is a movie that is awe-inspiring, beautiful, and unforgettable all in one.
unReal is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 47 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.