The Ataxian

The Ataxian is a truly inspiring 2015 documentary that draws its audience into the world of Kyle Bryant and Sean Baumstark, two men driven by unyielding determination in the face of tremendous adversity. Directed by Kevin Schlanser and Zack Bennett, it unravels an uplifting tale about human spirit, fortitude, and resilience, testing the limits of human endurance and potential.

The documentary revolves around Kyle Bryant and Sean Baumstark, two young men living with the degenerative neuromuscular disease called Friedreich’s ataxia (FA). This terminal illness progressively impairs motor functions but leaves the mind untouched, causing patients to eventually lose mobility and rendering them confined to a wheelchair. However, instead of succumbing to the disease, Bryant and Baumstark decide to challenge their own limitations to achieve the impossible.

The narrative of The Ataxian primarily focuses on the pivotal journey across America that Bryant and Baumstark embarked on. The Race Across America (RAAM) is widely reputed as 'the world's toughest bike race'. It spans over 3,000 miles from coast to coast, crossing 12 states and involves a multitude of weather conditions, varied terrain, and staggering elevations. It's a race so arduous that nearly half of the participants do not finish. The documentary captures Bryant and Baumstark as part of a four-man team preparing for and participating in this formidable race. Meticulously covered in the film are the exhaustive hours of preparation, undying team spirit, and the emotional up and downs of attempting to conquer the near impossible.

Kyle, who was diagnosed with FA at 17, testifies to what sheer willpower can achieve. Despite being told that he would soon be confined to a wheelchair, we see him navigating one of the most formidable cycling races. Sean, on the other hand, uses humor as his coping mechanism and provides a crucial source of morale for the team.

The Ataxian does not just underscore the grueling journey of RAAM, but also reflects larger issues. It brings to the forefront the daily battles people diagnosed with FA face and the lack of public awareness about the disease. The adventures in the film, in turn, contribute to motivating the cycling and rare disease communities, pushing for research and funding for a cure.

An important aspect of The Ataxian that resonates with its audience is how it manages to strike a balance between the grim realities that come with a degenerative disease and the light-hearted banter between the team members. The filmmakers make a genuine effort to humanize the illness and the people battling it rather than solely focusing on the tragic aspect. This makes the film a moving, intimate story about undying hope, friendship, and the power of the human spirit against all odds.

Adding to the cinematic experience are the stunning visuals of the diverse American landscape that accompany the cyclist’s journey, from the Pacific coast to the Atlantic. The unexpected trials that arise from change in terrains and the unyielding weather conditions amplify the physical and emotional struggles of the team. This makes the completion of their journey even more poignant, serving as a powerful symbol of overcoming personal limitations.

The Ataxian is a heroic tale that is emotionally riveting, and at the same time, incredibly inspiring. It is a story about the courage to fight against the inevitable, the will to live life to the fullest, and the indefatigable human spirit that resounds in each one of us. It calls to the viewer to reach inside and question - How far would we go to pursue our dreams? How fiercely would we fight for the people and causes we hold dear?

In conclusion, The Ataxian is not just a film about a bike race, nor is it just about a disease. It is a testament to the human spirit, a story about life itself; unyielding, raw, challenging, but ultimately, triumphantly beautiful. Whether you're a fan of empowering stories, sports documentaries, or you're simply interested in gaining a new perspective on life, The Ataxian will prove to be an eye-opening and soul-stirring watch.