The Barkley Marathons: The Race That Eats Its Young

This documentary delves into the grueling and enigmatic Barkley Marathons, an ultramarathon held in Frozen Head State Park, Tennessee. Known for its extreme difficulty and obscure rules, the race has seen very few finishers since its inception. The film follows several runners as they attempt to conquer this legendary event, showcasing their physical and mental fortitude against the unforgiving course.

The documentary received widespread critical acclaim for its raw portrayal of human endurance and the sheer insanity of the Barkley Marathons. Critics lauded its intimate access to the runners and the almost mythical aura surrounding the race, making it a must-watch for both sports enthusiasts and those fascinated by extreme challenges.

• An intense and captivating look at an almost impossibly difficult race.

• Highlights the incredible mental and physical toughness of ultramarathon runners.

• Successfully captures the bizarre and legendary nature of the Barkley Marathons.

Google audience: Audiences overwhelmingly praised the film for its thrilling and inspiring depiction of the Barkley Marathons. Many users found the race itself to be astonishing and the documentary effectively conveyed the extreme dedication and suffering of the participants. The film is frequently cited as being incredibly engaging and motivating.

Nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the Sundance Film Festival (2014).

The Barkley Marathons has a notoriously obscure entry process, with many runners applying through essays, and the exact start time is signaled by the race director (Gary 'Lazarus Lake' Cantrell) lighting a cigarette.