169. Skid Row Marathon; movie review

SKID ROW MARATHON
Cert 12A
98 mins
BBFC advice: Contains infrequent strong language

I doubt I will see a more inspirational figure in a movie this year than Judge Craig Mitchell.
In my life, I have been fortunate to hear and even tell some incredible stories but that of Judge Mitchell and the Skid Row running club is right up there.
The judge counterbalances the day job of passing sentence on criminals with helping addicts and felons to rehabilitate by pounding the streets of Los Angeles.
He even counts one, a murderer who served nearly 30 years for killing a teenager, as a close personal friend.
Mark Hayes' film follows the judge and his club which is designed to help those among LA's 57,000 homeless.
It offers a different direction to those who have lost hope of ever living a normal life after losing years to their habits, incarceration or both.
The documentary follows the very early morning runs which are geared up to giving participants a chance to sign up for a marathon abroad.
It shows the first toe in the water - an eye-opening marathon in Ghana's capital of Accra to an even more ambitious trip to Rome.
Alongside the running exploits, are the astonishing stories of some of the key players - whose talents have previously been wasted by addiction or terrible decision-making.
Ironically, outside of the courtroom, Mitchell doesn't judge. He just wants to help people become contributing members of society.
He does this by leading from the front - literally running with them as they get their heads into a positive place.
This is no easy process because they have been through many setbacks before but the judge steadfastly shows faith.
I found immersion in the stories of the individuals both emotional and rewarding. And, even though Mrs W and I are involved in charities, Judge Mitchell reminded us we could do so much more.
Skid Row Marathon is a terrific movie. Go watch if you can.

Reasons to watch: One of the most uplifting stories of the year.
Reasons to avoid: There is a lot of running

Laughs: A couple of chuckles
Jumps: None
Vomit: None
Nudity: None
Overall rating: 9/10

Director quote - Mark Hayes: "Our film is about more than just running marathons. It’s about the camaraderie of an unlikely group of individuals who receive a second chance at life, all brought on by a simple act of kindness."

The big question - Why aren't more people as kind as Judge Mitchell?

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