Reach for the Sky
Reach for the Sky

Movie spotlight

Reach for the Sky

2015
Movie
74 min
English

Danger. Reward. Adrenaline. Freeride mountain biking is synonymous with pushing the known boundaries of the sport. Cam Zink sits atop the Freeride world having won its most coveted titles, the Red Bull Rampage, Crankworx Slopestyle, and the Freeride World Tour, yet those accolades have not come without a physical price. He has transcended cycling media, and his super-human feats have become broadcast television and Internet sensations. "Reach For The Sky" takes a dramatic behind-the-scenes look into Cam Zink's life, with the story bookended by 2013 and 2014 Red Bull Rampage campaigns in Virgin, Utah. Plus, features a one-of-a-kind portrayal of his world-record- breaking 100-foot backflip attempt at Mammoth Mountain-showcasing 100% never-before-seen footage...

Insights

IMDb7.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes89%
Metacritic70/100
Google Users92%
Director: Stephen HopkinsGenres: Drama, Sport

Plot Summary

This gripping drama follows the inspiring true story of Douglas Bader, a pilot who lost both his legs in a plane crash but defied expectations to become a celebrated fighter ace during World War II. Despite his severe injuries and the initial skepticism of the Royal Air Force, Bader's determination and strategic brilliance led him to command squadrons and inspire his fellow pilots.

Critical Reception

While not a major box office success, 'Reach for the Sky' garnered positive reviews, particularly for its powerful lead performance and its uplifting portrayal of resilience. Critics praised its ability to balance the harsh realities of war with an ultimately inspiring narrative of human determination against overwhelming odds.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its inspirational true story and powerful central performance.

  • Appreciated for its depiction of overcoming adversity and a strong anti-war sentiment.

  • Some critics found the pacing occasionally uneven but acknowledged the film's emotional impact.

Google audience: Audiences were deeply moved by the film's true story of courage and perseverance. Many highlighted the lead actor's performance as exceptional, finding the film to be a motivating and emotionally resonant experience. A common sentiment is that it's a remarkable story of a disabled pilot excelling in war.

Fun Fact

The film is based on the life of the real-life RAF pilot Douglas Bader, who famously continued to fly Spitfires and Hurricanes despite having lost both legs in a pre-war flying accident.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review