Lorena, Light-Footed Woman

Release Date: November 2019
Rating: 8/10

This here is a cracking documentary about a long-distance runner called Lorena Ramírez, a young woman of the Rarámuri, a group of indigenous American people living in Chihuahua, Mexico. Amongst other things, the Rarámuri are well-known for their long-distance running abilities, something Lorena happens to excel at.

Directed by Juan Carlos Rulfo, the film follows Lorena’s daily life in the Sierra Tarahumara mountain range, along with her near-innate training rituals, and the ultramarathons she enters around the world. Aside from winning three of these marathons by the age of 22 – and, well, being astonishingly good at running – Lorena also happens to accomplish all of this in sandals. Yep. That’s right.

If you’re looking for motivation for a career in alpine sprinting or fell-running – this might be your sign.

Against The Ice

Release Date: February 2022
Rating: 7/10

‘Against The Ice’ is based on the true story of Denmark’s 1909 polar expedition to discover records left behind by a previously unsuccessful expedition in Greenland. These records will essentially prove whether America or Denmark has claim in this part of the Arctic, so, as you can imagine, the stakes are pretty high.

In short, the film involves two men, an angry-looking polar bear, and many, many months spent battling the life-threatening elements of the Arctic. Along with some stunning visuals, expect a whole lot of gruelling tension, gory fight scenes, and moments of sheer desperation that leave you hanging on by a thread.

Broad Peak

Release Date: September 2022
Rating: 7/10

Broad Peak is based on the extraordinary life of Polish mountaineer and guide, Maciej Berbeka. Having accomplished – what he thought was – the first winter ascent of Broad Peak (8047m) in 1988, Maciej later learns he was 17 metres lower than the true summit. 25 years later, he returns to finish what he started.

With stunning cinematography and an all-immersive sound experience, this one’s pretty good at sticking to the facts while still continuing to keep you gripped. Though incredibly tense and harrowing in parts, there’s also tender moments littered throughout, and a nice bit of insight into Maciej himself.

Resurface

Release Date: September 2017
Rating: 8/10

Backed by research detailing the healing properties of the ocean on the mind and body, Van Curaza founded Operation Surf, vowing to dedicate his life to helping veterans find peace through surfing. Little did he know the life-changing effects this would have on Iraq war veteran Bobby Lane who had been suffering for years with PTSD and depression.

Resurface follows Bobby’s journey, the stories of other veterans and their struggles, and the unbelievable power of the ocean. A deeply moving documentary – this is a must watch.

The River Runner

Release Date: October 2021
Rating: 7/10

This tale follows legendary kayaker Scott Lindgren as he sets out to become the first person ever to paddle four rivers that flow from Tibet’s Mount Kailash, the biggest rivers in the Himalayas. Though jaw-dropping in many points, The River Runner is also a deeply intimate portrait of Scott as he battles his inner demons, past traumas and struggles with his health.

No-doubt an unbelievably tough whitewater expedition; like a river, there are many unexpected twists and turns to this journey.

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