Rising From the Ashes
Director: T. C. Johnstone
Rating: (M)
4 stars (out of 5)
Any mention of a documentary set in Rwanda would normally evoke a sense of dread, and while Rising From the Ashes has the 1994 genocide uncomfortably in the background, it is so much more than a history lesson.
Narrated by Forrest Whitaker, you might think the film-makers would maximise the use of his characteristic voice, but for the benefit of the film they don't.
Rather, Rising From the Ashes is so wonderfully shot and paced that the content speaks volumes without the need for extra editorial input.
The crux of the narrative involves the unlikely partnership between American professional cyclist Jacques ''Jock'' Boyer and a team of Rwandan cyclists.
The characters who become ''Team Rwanda'' learn a craft that relieves them from the horrors of their upbringing, while their coach undergoes an awakening too.
Boyer too has his demons, details of which the film-makers drip-feed through the narrative.
The consistency of storytelling, plus the benefit of time, sets up a story that packs a powerful emotional punch just as likely to leave you with a massive grin as a moist eye.
Rising From the Ashes is also a cracking insight into cycling and what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Not only do the Rwandan team deal with ancient equipment, a crippled infrastructure and the fact that only a decade before they would have been on either side of the civil war, but their ability to push through the pain barrier with the sheer exuberance of simply riding fast, is quite infectious.
Best thing: Uncluttered storytelling that allows the captivating images to breathe.
Worst thing: The unnecessarily melodramatic introduction.
See it with: Your cycle helmet, having pedalled to the cinema.
