Red Dot on the Ocean: The Matt Rutherford Story

Red Dot on the Ocean: The Matt Rutherford Story is a riveting and inspiring documentary film from 2014 that brings to life the incredible and inspiring journey of Matt Rutherford - an unassuming sailor who dared to dream big and push the boundaries of human endurance and seafaring. Directed by Amy Flannery, and featuring Marlowe Macintyre, Herb McCormick and Doug Rutherford amongst others, this is a film that explores the depths of human determination, courage and resilience in the face of grim odds.

The film begins by providing a backdrop to Matt Rutherford's life, a turbulent history encompassing a challenging childhood marked by struggles including time in foster care, struggles at school, and a brush with addiction. Having had ample time to self-reflect, Rutherford made a conscious decision to pull himself out of the darkness and aim for the stars, channeling his energy into a deep-seated dream of daring exploration.

Matt’s high spirited adventure is set into motion when he decides to conquer one of the most challenging feats in sailing - a non-stop solo journey around both the Americas. He embarks on this seemingly impossible journey with little more than a 27-foot sailboat, aptly named the "St Brendan" after the sixth-century Irish explorer who, according to legend, sailed to the Americas nearly a thousand years before Columbus.

Despite nearing disaster multiple times, Matt’s resilience and determination shine through as he tackles each hurdle with a steady resolve. The treacherous sea conditions of the Northwest Passage, the storm-lashed Cape Horn and the relentless Atlantic Ocean aren’t just physical obstacles to conquer, but serve as symbolic reflections of the tumultuous struggles he’s already battled in his life.

"Red Dot on the Ocean" is a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity, underscoring the idea that these dangerous and perilous circumstances reveal the strength inherent within the individual. This documentary isn't just about seafaring or sailing, but moreover, it's a universal story about striding forward, undaunted in the face of adversity and fear.

Frequent contributor to the Sailing magazine and renowned journalist Herb McCormick takes us behind the scenes of Matt's extraordinary voyage, providing an in-depth perspective through his skilled storytelling. Meanwhile, Marlowe Macintyre plays a key role as the narrator, leading the audiences through the narrative with his engaging voice and involvement in the story, guiding us through the highs and lows of Matt's journey. Matt’s father, Doug Rutherford, also makes an appearance, providing deeply personal insights into Matt’s life and his indomitable spirit that marked his journey.

The presence of stunning shots of the blue Atlantic, the wild Arctic, and the sometimes terrifying, sometimes breath-taking views of the globe's most intense waters serve as a visual treat for nature enthusiasts and adventurists alike. The viewer is often left in awe of the vastness and sometimes hostility of the world around us and of the delicate, fraught relationship man has with the sea, constantly dependent on the water's capricious moods and the changing weather.

Moreover, "Red Dot on the Ocean" seamlessly blends the thrilling elements of adventure with poignant personal growth, showing how Matt Rutherford evolved from a rebellious youngster into a skilled explorer. It draws significant attention to the cathartic effects of overcoming struggles and finding purpose, giving the audience a feel-good experience that is laced with personal triumph and deeply entrenched in the human condition.

"Red Dot on the Ocean: The Matt Rutherford Story" is a must-watch, not only for sailing enthusiasts or adventure seekers but for those who draw inspiration from human stories of perseverance and courage. It illustrates the extent of human potential and the power of dreaming big, making it a highly commendable and impactful adventure-documentary.