Quadriplegia proves only a limited challenge to the subjects of this documentary who compete in a version of rugby modified to suit wheelchair-bound players. The film offers an informative look into different types of quadriplegia and it is fascinating just how much the subjects are able to accomplish without full use of their limbs. The quadriplegics interviewed are generally upbeat individuals, happy to make light of their condition (one comments that another could fit into a box like Shaobo Qin in 'Ocean's Eleven' and then tests out the theory) while having the same basic dreams and aspirations as persons with full body control. Curious as all this is, the film never strikes a satisfying balance between being about quadriplegia, being about the sport and being about the therapeutic effect of playing sport. There is also a lot of US vs Canadian tension thrown in as the Canadian team's coach was formerly a US player, and this whole angle presents an unwelcome distraction from the overcoming adversity general theme of the movie. The aspects of the documentary that work well though linger in the mind long afterwards. The segments in which the quads talk about dating women who are too nervous to ask about their bodily functions are great and all the scenes showing the quads moving about independently are engaging as the film potently reminds one that life does always go on no matter what happens.
Review of Murderball
