2024 Program

We Are All Protagonists

Film maker: Tilly GW

This film is about collective strength, the power of our differences, and the necessity of challenging stereotype. A team of eight runners, four supporters and two filmmakers take on The Speed Project, a 340 mile relay race from Los Angeles to Las Vegas: past airplane graveyards, away from wild dogs, and through the infamous Death Valley Desert. Enter, the Runners High, a nondescript universe attained by those who push their minds and bodies beyond expectation, surpassing questions of who, what, where, why and when. Set in the environment of an extreme physical feat, the messages taken from our film are parallel to all aspects of life, inspiring others to break society’s expectations, push boundaries and chase their own high.

Make Life Ultra

Film maker: Bruno Keustermans

“Make Life Ultra” is a short documentary film that follows the exceptional journey of trail and ultra runners Rik Goris and Dina Roman. As world record holders for Triple and Double Everesting, respectively, Rik and Dina share their insatiable passion for running and the profound impact it has on their lives.

The film delves into the pursuit of pushing physical boundaries and the resilience required to conquer challenges. The couple’s unique partnership symbolizes strength in unity and making each other better with every step. Through their achievements and personal growth, “Make Life Ultra” explores the transformative power of running beyond the finish line.

The film captures their training sessions in different locations, from the trails near Rik’s hometown to the renowned staircase Montagne de Bueren in Liège, where Rik and Dina set their world records. Alongside these local adventures, the film transports viewers to the Alps, where they return to their trail running origins, immersing themselves in the grandeur of the mountains.

As Rik and Dina reflect on their challenges, the film conveys a powerful message about living life to the fullest and finding joy in every moment. The title, “Make Life Ultra,” encapsulates the essence of their shared philosophy: a testament to their dedication to an extraordinary life through the pursuit of ultra running.

A journey of 530 kilometers | Back-to-back ultra marathons

Film maker: Jack Yao
“Zheng Junyue, a wedding gown designer from Chengdu, China, is on the path to making history as the first Chinese woman to tackle the ultimate trail running challenge. It’s a back-to-back of two of the most grueling races, the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB), a 171-kilometer race around Mont Blanc, and the Tor des Géants, a 350-kilometer ultramarathon in the Aosta Valley, Italy. With only six days between each race.

The documentary follows Zheng through a personal journey of overcoming pain, learning the limits of her body and discovering herself. Will she overcome the elements, steep gradients, and everything else Europe’s highest mountains throw at her?

Her story celebrates not only personal achievement but also the spirit of endurance that ordinary people can have.”

Beyond the Finish Line

Film maker: Matthew Williams

“Beyond the Finish Line follows the journey of Marisa Pasnick as she prepares for the grueling Bigfoot 200 race while facing the challenges of an eating disorder. Marisa’s story is a testament to resilience and strength as she navigates the dual paths of training and recovery. This film aims to destigmatize eating disorders, highlighting that recovery is ongoing and that support from the community is crucial. Join us as we witness Marisa’s journey and advocate for greater awareness and understanding of eating disorders.

Start Like a Coward

Film maker: Will Millar
47km along the western coast of Vancouver Island, the Juan de Fuca Trail is mostly used for multi-day backpacking. A handful of trail runners have run the entire length in under 6 hours.

Tyler D’Arcy tries to beat the current record time of 5h10min and shares his journey of getting into trail running from his former life as a competitive road cyclist.

Project Impossible

Film maker: William Corlett

18-year-old Aussie Larrikin, William Corlett, takes on a colossal challenge. To run 200km in 24hrs, the length of Tasmania! Running from Launceston to Hobart driven to raise $200,000 for Lifeline Australia. Raising awareness for the crisis support service.

With relentless support from his 3 red P wielding mates, they embark on a mission self determined IMPOSSIBLE.

Project Impossible is a heart pounding story, showcasing the spirit of young Australians, the power of comradery, & the limitless potential of human determination.