The Ataxian

Zack Bennett, Kevin Schlanser have made a movie that has nailed what a documentary should be. This film allows Kyle Bryant to get his message out in such a thought provoking and informative way. Ken Burns has nothing on these guys. To steal a quote "The cinematography and unforgettable storytelling warms my heart", the music raised my spirit, the scenery took my breath away. I was truly inspired by the courage of Sean Baumstark , John Lockwood (one funny guy),and Mike Mellot you are my hero's. I will be on the next ride for FA. Now if Public Television had any conscience they would pick this documentary up in a heartbeat and help Kyle get his message to the masses.

The film follows several articulate and charming characters on a memorable quest, while teaching the audience about the devastating orphan disease, Friedrich's ataxia. While it is an extraordinarily emotional film, the story is told with compassion and humor. The lack of self pity is both inspiring and challenging, and the production takes the audience for an incredible ride. The fact that The Ataxian has won audience awards at several film festivals attests to the fact its message is one we can all relate to: The young people in the film dwell on what they have, not what has been lost; and they are trying to help others. The film does a great job of telling their story, and most in the audience seem to leave the theater uplifted, grateful, and teary-eyed.

I had the pleasure to see this in a private screening and loved it. I knew a little about Kyle and Friedrich's Ataxia going in, and came away with a lot more than knowledge. This is a genuine and totally inspirational film that I would see again. The tag line is everything "life is about how you react" - the stark reality of a progressive, degenerative rare disease is a backdrop for making the most of your life, for stepping into meaningful action, and for creating a hopeful future for yourself and for others - a lesson for every single one of us!

Thank you to Kyle and Sean and John and Mike and the race crew and the film crew and the folks at FARA for pouring yourself into this project.

This film should be out there in the world - Kyle is a change-agent and the film is a change agent.

Extremely Inspirational Film.

Saw this film at a private screening in Athens, GA and I was blown away. It was an honor to meet Kyle Bryant.

Great documentary that will make you laugh and cry multiple times in 70 minutes.

Right now the film is only showing at festivals and private screenings.

If it is showing near you go see it right away...you wont be sorry.

I have two friends stricken with FA which was my reason for going to the film in the first place. This film teach you about the disease and and organization FARA. Beyond that it inspires you to be a better person. There are so many positive messages in this move that I will go back and watch it time and time again. The soundtrack is also very good. I hope it will be released as well

About 7 years ago I relocated the CrossFit location we are at today, CrossFit King of Prussia (200 DeKalb Street in Bridgeport Pa)...about three years later this young man named Kyle Bryant contacted me about joining...in 2012 CrossFit.com made this video https://youtu.be/rHlC1W9r704 and tonight, I had the honor of watching The Ataxian. How would you react to a life debilitating and fatal illness? "The Ataxian" shows the world that it is possible for one man to take action and change a community and world. I'm not only humbled to know this man, but honored to touch his hand, tell him he is handsome and have helped him do a few squats along the way. The courage and mindset Kyle has is one which I have learned from and continue to grow. Thank you sir for teaching me yet another lesson in life. I will do what I can to raise money and #cureFA

and the movie...these guys did an AMAZING job...I wish I had a venue to share this with everyone. There is so much heart in this film, love, caring and dedication. Bring your tissues. You will leave wanting more.