You'll come away loving this guy!
Snappy | Leeds, AL United States | 03/26/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I don't want this to come off as some kind of left handed compliment, but I have to mention that Dean takes a lot of criticism in the ultramarathon world basically because he is so popular but that there are other runners out there who do the same amount of running or even longer or faster. In other words, people say he has marketed himself as this hero of running that he is not. I hope this film puts that argument to rest. Dean is a truly genuine, kind man who loves running for the sake of running and wants to inspire others. He's not a show off, he's not a braggart. He's just truly amazing! So what if he puts himself in the limelight to get his message out? If he inspires people off the sofa he's done even more than the ultrarunner who peacefully breaks a course record and disappears into oblivion.
On to the film: Truly awesome. I had trouble sitting through the first 20 mins because I am a runner and wanted to get out and run but at the same time was glued to the screen. Dean goes through the first few races, spending 5-10 mins on each, then later shows highlights of some of the tougher days. Toward the end the trail races are shown in more detail and this really peaked my interest. The camerawork is great through the whole film but particularly good on the trail sections. I almost felt like I was right on the heals of the runners.
If I have to give one critism it would be over an injury scene where Dean falls down. I kmow it hurt and it was scary but this part is really dramaticized in the same way as if he had lost a family member along the way. Slow music, camera on the wound...Just a little much. I guess just another attmept to show Dean as a real person.
I'd recommend this to any runner, or anyone thinking about running. I rented it and will now buy it. I'm sure I'll watch before every big race, just like I used to do with Running on the Sun.
"
Controversy aside this is an amazing film
The Legend Of Megadon | USA | 12/19/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"If you know a runner ask them about Dean Karnazes. Everyone has their opinion about him some see him as a role model some do not. I saw this movie before I ever heard anyone debate about Dean. Even if you are not a fan of Dean this is truly an amazing film. This movie follows Dean as he travels around the country to run 50 marathons in 50 days. Some marathons are recreated on the course they take place on at a later date and some are live. Dean invites runners to come out an join him. Heavy rain, injury (Dean takes a pretty bad spill) and even running into a pole do not stop these determined runners. The first few marathons get more screen time and some marathons are recapped due to time constraints. The experience at each marathon is different and Dean meets some truly inspirational runners at these races. This film is not only inspirational but thought provoking. A must see for any runner epically someone cosidering entering a full marathon or an ultra running event. If you enjoy this move here are a few more you may enjoy Spirit of the Marathon,Running on the Sun,Running the Sahara [ NON-USA FORMAT, PAL, Reg.2 Import - Great Britain ], and The Runner: Extreme UltraRunner David Horton"
Runners' High
J. M. Connors | Sparks, Nevada USA | 03/14/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"UltraMarathon Man takes viewers on an emotional journey like no other. We watch as Dean Karnazes attempts to run 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 days. Beyond the physical challenge is the incredible beauty of where he runs and with whom. This film is inspiring for all who dream of doing something seemingly beyond human abilities."