1969 - Following Merckx
1969 - Following Merckx

1969 - Following Merckx

2022Movie59 minEnglish

1969. July the 15th. Stage 17 of the Tour de France. A brutal stage from Luchon to Mourenx covering four of the toughest mountains in the Pyrenees. On this fateful day, Eddy Merckx catapulted himself into the history books with one of the greatest solo breakaways the sport has ever seen. Fast forward over half a century, and GCN’s Simon Richardson is in the Pyrenees to pay tribute to The Cannibal by recreating his ride. To make the 220km epic even more challenging, Si will do it aboard his 1969 spec Faema team bike and wearing their iconic red and white jersey. Eddy Merckx made this ride look easy, but will Si even make it to the finish line?

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Insights

IMDb7.8/10
Director: Tariq Al-UbaydliGenres: Documentary, Sport

Plot Summary

This documentary delves into the life and career of cycling legend Eddy Merckx, exploring his unparalleled dominance in the sport during the late 1960s and early 1970s. It examines his relentless pursuit of victory, the controversies that surrounded him, and his lasting impact on professional cycling. The film features interviews with fellow cyclists, historians, and fans, offering a comprehensive look at 'The Cannibal'.

Critical Reception

Following Merckx received positive reviews, particularly for its in-depth look at Eddy Merckx's career and its engaging narrative. Critics praised its comprehensive approach, acknowledging its appeal to both cycling enthusiasts and general sports documentary fans. While some noted the subject matter might be niche, the overall consensus highlighted the film's success in capturing the essence of a sporting icon.

What Reviewers Say

  • Offers a compelling portrait of one of cycling's greatest legends.
  • Engaging narrative that captures the intensity of Merckx's era.
  • A must-watch for cycling aficionados and sports history buffs.

Google audience: Audience reviews for 'Following Merckx' highlight its comprehensive coverage of Eddy Merckx's career and its ability to convey the excitement of his racing achievements. Viewers appreciated the detailed exploration of his dominance and the insights provided into his life and impact on the sport.

Fun Fact

The documentary's title, 'Following Merckx,' is a play on the phrase 'following the wheel' in cycling, referencing the tactic of drafting behind another rider, while also directly indicating the film's focus on the legendary cyclist himself.

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