The sports doc. Chris & Martina is one for the record books and one to be watched. The most captivating sports rivalry of the 20th C was not Ali v Frazer, not Magic v Bird. It was Chris Everett and Martina Navratilova on the tennis court. Their records on the courts and their talents on are full display in this easily watchable and very likable documentary. What makes this such a compelling film is their story of lasting LOVE and friendship off the court. And, tennis tore apart their friendship. The film's strength comes from the their deep friendship that has flourished despite having been pitted against each other for their consummate goal to be #1 in the world. The two contrasting athletes in their style of play and demeanor couldn't have been more diverse. They share their drive and what they gave up to achieve their goals. Martina's defection in the 70s from the Czech Republic meant she was separated from her family which was devastating for her. There's a joyful reunion in which Martina brings Chris back home to meet her family years later. Chris also felt tennis demanded all her focus. It took her away from her first husband "I had nothing left to give off the court." Her victory at Wimbledon, while joyful when having received her trophy "left me lying on the floor of my hotel room. It was depression. I realized I had no friends." However, this is not a depressing film. It's actually very uplifting and life affirming film about competition and dealing with diversity. Looking back at the early years of both women as young girls on the courts and their love for the game is delightful. We see how arch rivals tend to bring out the best in one another. The film is framed by the present cancer battles both women are facing. The comeback and evolution of their love for one another is a tribute to the characters of both women which I came to admire. It's reassuring to see the support each has within their own family; Martina her wife and Chris her 2nd husband and sons. Chris says "We were married 20 years and had 3 children together. The caring doesn't go away." This film wins in a tie breaker with other engaging sports documentaries as on center court are two great foes who fought each other and who found each other as cherished friends. A double bonus is watching the two champions watching their matches together.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Don't be shy, let me know what you think