Long Shot: The Kevin Laue Story

Long Shot: The Kevin Laue Story is a remarkably inspirational and empowering sports documentary that was first released in 2012. The film was directed by acclaimed filmmaker Franklin Martin, and stars Kevin Laue and Barry Rohrssen. Perfect viewing for sports fans, and anyone looking for a motivational pick-me-up, this film proves the enduring power of the human spirit.

The film documents the real-life story of Kevin Laue’s journey to realize a seemingly impossible dream. Born with just one arm, Laue confronts a life filled with naysayers, doubters, and personal trials. His objective is simple but staggering: to become the first one-armed player in the history of College Division I basketball. The film exposes the cutthroat world of college basketball recruiting, demonstrating the lengths that people will go to, and the odds they will face, to enter into this hallowed but often inaccessible realm.

The film starts by introducing the audience to Kevin Laue, and his dream. Despite the overwhelming odds he faces, Kevin’s passion for the sport and his determination make the audience empathize with his situation and root for him. His captivatingly optimistic nature and powerful spirit are immediately endearing, making for a protagonist that viewers cannot help but cheer for.

During the course of the film, we follow Kevin's struggles on and off the basketball court, witnessing his unwavering determination and his unique ability to turn disadvantages into instrumental learning experiences. More than simply a riveting sports film, Long Shot: The Kevin Laue Story is a testament to tenacity and the will to succeed in the face of adversity.

As well as charts Laue's journey, the film also stars Barry Rohrssen, the coach who helped shape Laue's career. Rohrssen, a well-respected figure in college basketball, believed in Laue when others did not. His perceptible devotion to Laue's success is incredibly touching. Rohrssen’s support further emphasizes the key role of mentorship, hard work, and determination in achieving seemingly unattainable goals.

Director Franklin Martin handles the subject with delicacy and respect, allowing the natural drama of the story to unfold on its own. The film’s narrative is both candidly honest and deeply felt, making the film a moving and engrossing viewing experience.

Beyond the riveting story of athletic achievement, Long Shot: The Kevin Laue Story is also a testament to overcoming physical disadvantages. As Laue repeatedly demonstrates in this film, being physically different does not mean one's potential or life's opportunities are somehow lesser. The film provides a refreshingly optimistic and unabashedly inspirational perspective on life’s opportunities, irrespective of the hurdles that one might come across.

The film features some breathtaking cinematography, capturing the kinetic energy of basketball, from its heart-pounding gameplay to the intense emotion of the players. Martin’s direction and the film’s cinematography work together to create a cinematic experience that is as visually stunning as it is emotionally moving.

As we journey with Kevin, the film delves into the deep emotional truths about what it means to have a dream and the lengths one will go to achieve it. It's not just about basketball, but it's about relationships, personal development, life's struggles, and triumphs. During the course of the film, the audience gets to witness raw human emotion and spirit on display, which evokes a profound sense of empathy within them and leaves a lasting impact just as the credits roll.

For Kevin Laue, everything about his journey of becoming a professional basketball player is a long shot, but his story will undoubtedly inspire and uplift everyone who watches it. It is a powerful reminder of the transformative nature of sport and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to dream big, irrespective of the odds stacked against them. Whether you're a sports enthusiast or not, Long Shot: The Kevin Laue Story is an engaging and earnest film that will leave a significant impact on its viewers.