Running America

Running America is a captivating documentary film released in 2009 showcasing the exceptional journey of two standout ultra-runners, Charlie Engle and Marshall Ulrich. Directed by Larry Tanz, the film offers an arresting blend of inspiration, drama, and raw human emotion, serving as an exemplification of exceptional willpower, resilience, and sheer strength of the human spirit.

The film embarks on its narrative by introducing the audience to the fascinating protagonists – Charlie Engle, a previously incarcerated recovering addict turned world-renowned ultrarunner, and Marshall Ulrich, a man in his late fifties with extraordinary endurance and physical capabilities that would put many younger individuals to shame. Engle and Ulrich, both ultra-marathoners, are on a single-minded mission to set an unprecedented record - to traverse the United States from coast to coast, that is, from San Francisco to New York, in just 46 days by foot. The route, which is roughly about 3100 miles, is a truly gruelling and daunting endeavour to undertake.

Developed against the backdrop of America's varied and breathtaking landscape, Running America takes the audience on a scenic ride through the country, offering glimpses into the diverse terrains, ranging from the rushing waters of the mighty Mississippi to the deliciously unforgiving conditions of the arid Nevada desert. This journey is a picturesque exploration of the United States in all its rugged glory, reminding viewers of the majesty and magnificence the country has to offer. Yet, for Engle and Ulrich, it is a punishing landscape, a vast expanse that they must defeat with nothing but their seemingly superhuman resilience and endurance.

At its core, Running America is about more than just a physical trial, it is a profound exploration of personal boundaries, mental strength and the astounding breadth of human potential. The film captures its subject’s raw, unvarnished human emotions, their highs and lows, their interactions and conflicts with their supporting crew, their injuries, exhaustion, and their respective personal life stories that add an intense layer of human interest to this record-setting journey.

Engle, for instance, is an individual fuelled by his dark past, aiming to inspire other addicts to focus their energy positively by illustrating the transformative power of athletic achievement. While Ulrich, who has outlived a spouse and a child, is interested in probing the boundaries of the possible, stretching his own physical limits beyond what most people may consider sane or safe. Their disparate motivations yet similar visions make for an engrossing spectacle that leaves viewers teetering on the brink of their seats.

Marshall and Charlie, in their journey to run approximately 70 miles a day–a feat nearly unthinkable by general standards– face a multitude of challenges, such as sickness, physical strain, tensions within the crew, tactical disagreements, and much more. It is especially fascinating to watch how they strategize to complete their journey, trading off each other's strengths, tackling obstacles with determination and teamwork, and coping with the mounting pressure of making or breaking a world record.

Running America visually encapsulates the subjects' blood, sweat, and tears shot in crisp, cutting-edge high-definition video, enhancing the reality effect for the viewers. The film’s music provides an emotionally rich score that underscores the triumphs and trials the runners experience in their journey.

In a broader context, the film subtly addresses the indomitable spirit of human beings, reminding every individual of their innate capacity to do great things despite their personal backgrounds, should they put their hearts, minds, and bodies into it. It prompts viewers to consider how they might push their own limitations and what they might achieve if they truly put themselves to the test.

In essence, Running America delves into a unique realm of sports and humanity. This documentary is not just an athletic endeavour, but it navigates the emotional, psychological and humanistic aspects of endurance, discipline, teamwork, pain, triumph, defeat, and above all, resilience. It is a story of will, a tale of grit, and a testament to what two determined men, a supportive team, and a tantalizing dream can accomplish amidst adversity. Whether you’re an athlete, a documentary enthusiast, or just someone in the search for inspiration, Running America will take you on an unforgettable journey of setting, pursuing, and achieving extraordinary feats.