MOVIE REVIEW
Nina is an Athlete
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 12m
Director(s): Ravit Markus, Livi Kessel
Language: Hebrew, Russian with English subtitles
Where To Watch: premiering at the 2024 Slamdance Film Festival, www.slamdance.com

RAVING REVIEW: NINA IS AN ATHLETE is a film that gives us a look into the world of Nina Gorodetsky, an Israeli wheelchair badminton contender. Ravit Markus directs this documentary, which ends up being far from your standard sports film. Over three years, it offers an up-close look at Nina's revived quest for the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, painting a vivid picture of her dual pursuit of athletic glory and motherhood. It’s a fresh blend of high-stakes sports drama and the intimate moments of daily life.

The film unwraps the layers of Nina’s world, showcasing her relationship with her husband, Dor Kessel - an architect, coach, and partner all rolled into one. This mix of personal and professional roles adds a complex flavor to the narrative, inviting viewers into the balancing act Nina navigates daily. Further enriching the plot is Leon Pugach, her primary coach, whose background weaves a broader context around the sporting world and the intricacies shown in the film.

Markus’s storytelling approach breaks new ground in sports documentary narratives. Eschewing clichéd, motivational angles, the film instead presents a multi-dimensional portrait of Nina, immersing the audience in the richness of her life beyond the sport and beyond any hurdles she faces. This directorial choice elevates the documentary from a mere athletic chronicle to a profound exploration of identity and perseverance.

A standout feature of the film is its depiction of motherhood. Markus captures Nina’s maternal instincts with such authenticity that it resonates universally, adding depth to her portrayal and allowing us to see her as an athlete and a multifaceted individual facing life’s myriad challenges. The film strikes a balance between covering the different topics, ensuring we glimpse what Nina’s life is like.

Technically, the film’s minimalist camera work perfectly accompanies the story; brought on by budgetary constraints, it brings intimacy and immediacy to Nina's story, enhancing the viewer's engagement. The documentary traverses various themes - the correlation between age and athletic performance, the nuances of immigrant experiences, and the complexities of relationships in the shadow of disability.

Moreover, Nina is an athlete who delves into vital healthcare issues, spotlighting the need for better medical practices in managing care for wheelchair users. This aspect tells a compelling story and pushes for societal change, showcasing the filmmakers' dedication to storytelling with a purpose. This ultimately could have been a very black-and-white film about one piece of Nina’s life; thankfully, that wasn’t the narrative chosen, and instead, we get a more extensive exploration into all of the various avenues.

Timed with the growing buzz around the 2024 Paris Paralympics, NINA IS AN ATHLETE is set to make a significant impact. The film examines media portrayals of people with disabilities, offering a realistic and empathetic look at their lives and struggles.

NINA IS AN ATHLETE is a testament to Ravit Markus's filmmaking prowess and passion for crafting impactful narratives. More than just a documentary, it’s an enlightening journey that challenges preconceived notions and deepens our appreciation for the intricate tales of human endurance and spirit.

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[photo courtesy of NEW LOVE FILMS]

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