Dreama Team

A story, documentary and (yes) a marathon - that capture not only the rush, struggle and triumph of running, but go deeper to uncover those same themes of life. Dreama's story is full of impactful layers - intentionally met with a smile, but also a subconscious look in her eyes showing it means far more than "catching the (runner's) bug." Filmmakers Weber and Vanderheide pace viewers through every curve of the path, with adept instincts on balancing backstory, struggle and hardship with the character, will-power and heart to overcome. While the action's limited to one race with (understandably) limited footage, you never feel out of step with Dreama's race, and more importantly - her bigger journey. Throughout the film, you feel connected to "the battle in her mind" in a way where you both relate to it, but also can't fathom actually being in her shoes. That goes for her hardships in life leading up to this moment, and the sheer insanity of a 100° ultra marathon. But the values she runs with transcend exclusivity; they're universal lights we all strive to run toward in our own dark mental battles. By the end, you can't help but get goosebumps from Dreama's mission for "the next steps" - or wonder what those are for the up and coming filmmakers.