

Movie spotlight
Dare to Be
Dare to Be is a documentary film not only on the sport of rowing, but also the human spirit. It follows a series of rowers ranging from novice girls to women training for the Olympics, as they overcome obstacles and seek greatness. We learn along their journey that greatness can come in many forms and should not always be measured by traditional concepts of success, but rather by individual triumphs. It essentially suggests that athletes can define what success looks like to them – not coming in last place, beating a rival, medaling for the first time, qualifying for nationals, or winning an Olympic gold medal.
Insights
Plot Summary
This documentary follows the journey of aspiring young skateboarders from Los Angeles as they navigate the challenges of poverty, systemic injustice, and personal struggles. It highlights their resilience, determination, and the power of skateboarding as an escape and a path to a better future. The film showcases their dedication to the sport and their dreams of turning professional.
Critical Reception
Dare to Be received positive reviews, with critics praising its authentic portrayal of the skateboarding subculture and its focus on the inspiring stories of its young subjects. The documentary was commended for its raw emotion and its ability to capture the spirit of perseverance against adversity.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its authentic and gritty portrayal of young skateboarders.
Commended for its inspiring stories of resilience and determination.
Noted for capturing the spirit of a community built around skateboarding.
Google audience: Audience reviews were generally positive, with viewers appreciating the film's focus on inspirational stories and its realistic depiction of the challenges faced by the subjects. Many found the skateboarding segments exhilarating and the personal journeys of the skaters compelling.
Fun Fact
The film was shot over several years, allowing the filmmakers to build genuine relationships with the skaters and capture their authentic lives and progression.
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