Watch Why Do Jamaicans Run So Fast

Why Do Jamaicans Run So Fast is a documentary film released in 2009 that takes a closer look at the athletic success of Jamaica in international track and field competitions. The film features interviews with some of the most successful Jamaican athletes, including Usain Bolt, Etana, and Shelly-Ann Fraser, as well as coaches and experts in the field.

The film explores the cultural and historical factors that contribute to Jamaica's dominance in sprinting, a sport where the Jamaicans have been increasingly successful on the international stage over the past few decades. Director Til Schweiger attempts to answer the question posed in the film's title through a combination of insight, history and interviews with some of Jamaica's top athletes.

The film opens by delving into the origins of Jamaican sprinting and its ties to the island's history of slavery and colonization. The inherently competitive nature of slaves engaging in running contests as a means of resistance during slavery ultimately led to Jamaicans perfecting sprinting as a sport. This history serves as a precursor to the themes of the film and provides necessary context for the viewer.

As the documentary progresses, it begins to focus more closely on the athletes themselves, highlighting their incredible work ethic, determination, and grit. The viewer is given a glimpse into some of the most successful athletes' daily routines, and it's clear that much of their success is due to hours of training and self-discipline.

Usain Bolt, undoubtedly the most well-known and successful Jamaican sprinter ever, is the film's main focus. He appears frequently throughout the film, providing personal anecdotes and insight into his unparalleled success. Through interviews with Bolt and his family, the film reveals how Bolt's sheer determination, natural talent, and ability to remain calm under pressure propelled him to become the fastest man on earth.

Other Jamaican athletes are given ample screen time, with interviews highlighting their backgrounds and struggles to reach the top. Names such as Shelly-Ann Fraser and Etana are given importance, with the latter adding the issue of gender into the mix. Etana discusses the challenges female Jamaican athletes face in a male dominated field, such as a lack of financial support, access to proper training facilities, and the challenges of balancing motherhood and training.

The film also tackles head-on the issue of performance enhancing drugs and sports, acknowledging that Jamaica's success has not been immune to this issue. While some athletes have been caught doping and stripped of medals, the documentary stresses that the majority of Jamaican athletes are clean and that success has been mostly attributed to hard work, natural talent, and an enduring love of the sport.

The documentary is beautifully shot with lush visuals of the island of Jamaica, adding to the mystical and awe-inspiring feel of the film. Even when the film takes a more academic approach and begins explaining the scientific variations that provide such an advantage to Jamaican sprinters, the visuals keep things entertaining and dynamic.

The music is another highlight of the film, with Jamaican reggae beats infusing the soundtrack and providing an additional layer of cultural richness. The music not only adds to the film's overall atmosphere, but also highlights the importance of the arts in Jamaican culture and society.

Ultimately, Why Do Jamaicans Run So Fast? is an informative and inspirational documentary that gives insight into the incredible success of Jamaica's athletes. Woven into the film are nuanced explorations of Jamaica's history, culture, and gender representation. The film's central question is ultimately answered through a combination of historic exploration, scientific explanation, and personal testimony, accompanied by stunning visual and audio elements. Even those without a keen interest in track and field can walk away from this film feeling inspired and invigorated.