Murderball DVD Review:

It seems that this is the year for uplifting documentaries. In past years audiences have fawned over anti-bush and anti-McDonalds films, but this year the most popular documentaries are not against anything, but are very much in favor of rising up to life. March of the Penguins shows how a species can breed despite the harshest conditions on this planet, Rize follows a group of inner city kids who decide to dance instead of join gangs or sell drugs, and Murderball proves that there are life opportunities even for quadriplegics. It also shows that all of the same human qualities still remain; competition, revenge, anger, compassion, and even sex.

Murderball is the nickname given to quadriplegic rugby. It is a concept which seems absurd; a full contact sport for people who have impairment in all of their limbs. The wheelchairs are done up in a way that makes the players look more like they are going into battle than playing a sport, and many of the players treat it that way as well. The sport gives them a sense of honor and pride, especially when they are playing for their country. They also don’t wear helmets, almost as if it is their way of saying that they can still live dangerously.

There is a natural story within the material is amazing. I don’t know whether it was knowledge that the filmmakers had prior to shooting or if it was something that arose during the process, but there is a rivalry within the plot between Canada and The United States. It seems that one of the original players got too old and he was cut from the American team, so he went to Canada and began coaching their team with only the goal of beating The United States. This rivalry brings intense competition to the tournaments featured in the film, although there is surprisingly little time spent in the game. Most of the documentary focuses more on the human element. All of the players have their own unique story. Some of them were involved in car accidents, one player was punched in the wrong way, and others developed some sort of disease which put them in their wheelchair.

The DVD for Murderball is filled with all sorts of great features to enjoy besides the film. Once fans have watched the film, they are bound to want more information on the players and where they are, and there are a number of interviews. There is a CNN Larry King Live interview, a Joe Soares update interview, and footage from the New York City Premiere. All of these features took place during the marketing for the film and they all talk about what they have been doing since the film was made. There is also a Jackass special in order to promote the film with the usual stupidity by Steve-O and Johnny Knoxville as well as a number of interview opportunities from many of the players. Other features include a commentary track by the filmmakers and one with the players, deleted scenes, and an MTV Disability Awareness program.



Ryan Izay