Courage in Action: an Athlete’s Undaunted Spirit

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MOVIE REVIEW
Abled: The Blake Leeper Story
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 27m
Director(s): Einar Thorsteinsson
Where To Watch: showing July 1, 2023, at Dances with Film; tickets available here www.danceswithfilms.com learn more about the film here www.abledfilm.com

RAVING REVIEW: ABLED: THE BLAKE LEEPER STORY carves out a unique niche in documentary films. Directed by Einar Thorsteinsson, the film explores the life and struggles of Paralympian Blake Leeper, whose spirit of courage and determination illuminates every frame. The film's journey began on the grand stage of the Seattle International Film Festival, making its way to the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles through Dances with Films.

Immerse yourself in the narrative that spans a critical juncture in Leeper's life – battling biases, which appear as formidable as any Olympic opponent. Watch his metamorphosis from an acclaimed Paralympian into a spirited contender vying for a spot in the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Team spot. It's a battle against bureaucracy, a maze of regulations that shape the world of professional sports.

ABLED: THE BLAKE LEEPER STORY is an exploration that shatters the traditional boundaries of documentary filmmaking. It plunges headfirst into societal prejudices and misconceptions about individuals with disabilities. The film underscores the psychological battles that are often more challenging than physical ones, revealing the unwarranted and debilitating regulations in the sports world that impact athletes like Leeper.

The narrative deftly blends deep emotional stories with dialogue that makes you think and ponder why these rules aren’t being changed. The film's DNA is a concoction of hard scientific truths, intimate portrayals of human life, and a dash of cinematic magic. When the end credits roll, you're left with echoes of Leeper's story resonating within your psyche, wanting more, wanting to find out what happens.

The heart of this film is Leeper, a study of resilience. His undying ambition to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with non-disabled athletes at the Olympics is a testament to his fighting spirit. ABLED: THE BLAKE LEEPER STORY unearths the biases lurking in Olympic sports' shadows.

Equipped with compelling scientific proof that his prosthetics do not offer an unfair advantage, Leeper encounters roadblocks at every turn. As viewers, we are privy to his journey, witnessing his steadfast resolution and indomitable spirit. His setbacks, rather than break him, become stepping stones, invoking feelings of empathy.

ABLED: THE BLAKE LEEPER STORY is an immersive learning experience painting a vivid picture of its protagonist, Blake Leeper, an inspiring figure who has weathered countless storms. The film acts as a torchbearer, illuminating the demanding standards of an Olympic athlete and kindling a flame of hope for a more inclusive future.

The film doesn't serve a definitive conclusion on a silver platter; instead, it engages viewers, spurring them to cheer for Leeper. The narrative is a tribute to Leeper's journey and catalyzes conversations about diversity, acceptance, and equal opportunities in sports.

Leeper, born on August 31, 1989, dreams of breaking more records, making him an inspiring figure. His story underscores the belief that physical limitations cannot dampen the human spirit. At its core, ABLED: THE BLAKE LEEPER STORY is more than just a movie; it's a testament to the unyielding spirit of human resilience and ambition.

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[photo courtesy of UNION EDITORIAL]