Go Far: The Christopher Rush Story

Go Far: The Christopher Rush Story is a compelling, inspiring, and moving documentary film from 2015, narrated by the renowned Mark Hamill, who is best known for his role as Luke Skywalker in the Star Wars saga. The film delves into the life, experiences, and legacy of Christopher Rush, a nationally recognized motivational speaker, civil rights activist, and poster child for United Cerebral Palsy.

Christopher was born with an incurable, but not unfamiliar, condition known as Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Doctors pronounced Christopher, at birth, to live no longer than two years. Nonetheless, he defied all expectations, living 30 years beyond the prognosticated life span. Rush embraced the challenges life threw at him with resilience, courage, and sheer determination, which the movie masterfully encapsulates.

Go Far: The Christopher Rush Story is not just a retelling of Christopher's life but a grand tribute that documents how he transcended personal tragedy, created an unforgettable legacy, and became a beacon of hope for those grappling with adversity. Christopher's inspirational journey is threaded artistically with interviews, pictures, home videos, and a host of moving testimonials from family members, friends, and caregivers who were closely involved in his life.

Mark Hamill's compelling narration interspersed with Christopher Rush's inspirational quotes and speeches transforms the documentary from a mere recounting of diffuse events into a melange of motivational tales. It is throughout this journey that we get an in-depth look at Christopher's life, from an initial prognosis of having a short life to becoming a national role model for the disabled community.

The documentary traces Christopher's journey as he navigates hitherto unexplored territories, flying against tradition, societal norms, and medical preconceptions. He becomes the first quadriplegic licensed scuba diver and graduates from the University of Michigan with a degree in aero-space engineering. He grabs national attention when he becomes the face of Jerry Lewis' Muscular Dystrophy Association for three consecutive years. The full arc of his unprecedented life illustrates a man refusing to be defined by his physical limitations or societal labels.

Go Far: The Christopher Rush Story incorporates 'GO FAR' motivational principles, an acronym derived from Christopher’s name. This principle was developed by Christopher himself and stands for Goals, Obstacles, Focus, Act, and Review. These principles represent the guiding doctrine of Christopher's life and yield a powerful message about triumphant human spirit and unflinching resilience.

Highlighting these principles throughout the film, director Zack Arnold and writer Chris Rush, in a moving and remarkably profound way, radiate Christopher's impervious spirit and his dogged determination that refuses to accept disability as an obstacle. These principles also offer a template to any individual willing to push their boundaries beyond perceived limitations.

The film's narrative is interspersed with heart-wrenching episodes, including Christopher's frequent visits to the hospital due to his fragile health, to uplifting moments of him refusing to let his condition hinder his dreams. Such moments serve as a clear testament of Christopher's resilience, making this documentary a real tear-jerker and simultaneously a source of pure inspiration.

Filled with emotion, Go Far: The Christopher Rush Story is a versatile documentary, portraying a profound story about determination, perseverance, and resilience, pushing audiences to examine their own lives and personal obstacles from a new vantage point. The film leaves an indelible mark on the viewers, coiling them in an emotional rollercoaster and inspiring them not only to celebrate the story of Christopher Rush but to introspect their personal limitations, allowing opportunities to redefine the constraints and live life to the fullest.

Mark Hamill's powerful narration coupled with the emotional narrative pulls the viewers into Christopher's world, allowing a glimpse into his incredible journey, his unfaltering spirit, and his unwavering positivity that the film warrants profound respect for.

Overall, Go Far: The Christopher Rush Story might revolve around one individual's life, but it serves as an inspiration for all, reminding viewers that everyone carries the capability to transcend personal challenges and touch the lives of others positively. This documentary is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, proving no obstacle is too significant, and no dream too ambitious. It's a must-watch, whether you're looking for motivation, an impactful narrative, or a real-life testament to human courage and resilience.