I Am Evel Knievel

I Am Evel Knievel is a riveting documentary film from 2014 that delves into the life and times of the iconic daredevil, Evel Knievel. Directed by Derik Murray and David Ray and featuring Willy G. Davidson, Gary Davis, and Bob Einstein among its cast, this film gives an in-depth look at the professional and personal life of the man who donned a star-spangled suit to defy gravity, one death-defying motorcycle jump at a time.

The film opens with a broad perspective, surveying the cultural milieu that eventually gave rise to the stunts of Evel Knievel, a man who pushed the limits of possibility and flirted closely with death to create performance spectacles that earned him a legendary status in the world of daredevils. Willie G. Davidson, the famed American businessman and motorcycle designer, adds a unique layer of insight into Knievel's stunts from a technical point of view.

A key factor that distinguishes this documentary from others is its impressive roster of contributors. Gary Davis, a legendary stuntman and coordinator with hundreds of films under his belt, provides an insider's perspective on the stunt world and the risks involved. He surmises Knievel’s impact in the context of stunt performance, highlighting his legacy as one of the pioneers of deity-defying stunts.

Bob Einstein, an actor and writer renowned for his comedic role in Curb Your Enthusiasm, brings a relatable layer of humor and integrity to the narrative. Having interacted with Knievel during his celebrity life, Einstein's contribution to the film enhances the viewer's understanding of Knievel beyond his stunts and paints a humanizing picture of him, offering a glimpse into his off-stage persona.

In addition to the film's vibrant cast, I Am Evel Knievel manages to strikingly convey the dangers that came with Knievel’s profession. It highlights the star-spangled daredevil's perilous leaps over long rows of cars, buses, and even a canyon. The viewer is left to marvel not just at his fearless acts, but also at the inevitable injuries, accidents, and near-death experiences that became a routine part of Knievel’s life.

However, the film isn't just about the hair-raising stunts and the raw courage of this daredevil. Emphasizing elements of story-telling and characterization, it also successively delves into the struggles, agonies, and triumphs that made up Knievel’s journey. It explores his origin story from humble beginnings through the gradual climb to international fame and recognition, overshadowed by his constant flirtation with death.

Contributions from family members, friends, collaborators, and even contemporaries paint a more comprehensive picture of the man behind the helmet. We see Knievel not just as a stunt-performer, but also as a father, husband, and a determined man driven by a passion that exceeded his fear of harm or death. The nuances of his personality, both the inspiring and the controversial, are brought to light with nuance and sensitivity.

I Am Evel Knievel takes us on a reflective tour of the 60s and 70s pop culture, with Knievel’s stunts acting as a mirror to the society then. We get to understand the socio-cultural milieu of the time, which not only allowed for the rise of a figure like Knievel but also celebrated his audacious performances. The film effectively captures the spirit of the era, depicting how Knievel's risky and larger-than-life exploits made him a timeless icon much before the advent of the extreme sports culture.

The movie presents a captivating mix of archival footage, well-staged reenactments, and enlightening interviews. The documentary also delivers the attractive visual quality of Knievel's outrageous stunts, making it a cinematic endeavor befitting its subject.

To sum up, I Am Evel Knievel is an intriguing journey through the extraordinary life of an extraordinary man. Its approach maintains a balance between storytelling and factual retelling of history, making it appealing to both documentary enthusiasts and casual viewers alike. Through its exploration of Knievel's life, it delves into the universal themes of ambition, courage, and the human spirit's unrelenting quest to push beyond limits. Anyone seeking a gripping tale of determination, danger, and death-defying stunts would find this film a worthy watch.