The Ataxian

Zack Bennett, Kevin Schlanser have made a movie that has nailed what a documentary should be. This film allows Kyle Bryant to get his message out in such a thought provoking and informative way. Ken Burns has nothing on these guys. To steal a quote "The cinematography and unforgettable storytelling warms my heart", the music raised my spirit, the scenery took my breath away. I was truly inspired by the courage of Sean Baumstark , John Lockwood (one funny guy),and Mike Mellot you are my hero's. I will be on the next ride for FA. Now if Public Television had any conscience they would pick this documentary up in a heartbeat and help Kyle get his message to the masses.

Extremely Inspirational Film.

Saw this film at a private screening in Athens, GA and I was blown away. It was an honor to meet Kyle Bryant.

Great documentary that will make you laugh and cry multiple times in 70 minutes.

Right now the film is only showing at festivals and private screenings.

If it is showing near you go see it right away...you wont be sorry.

I have two friends stricken with FA which was my reason for going to the film in the first place. This film teach you about the disease and and organization FARA. Beyond that it inspires you to be a better person. There are so many positive messages in this move that I will go back and watch it time and time again. The soundtrack is also very good. I hope it will be released as well

The film follows several articulate and charming characters on a memorable quest, while teaching the audience about the devastating orphan disease, Friedrich's ataxia. While it is an extraordinarily emotional film, the story is told with compassion and humor. The lack of self pity is both inspiring and challenging, and the production takes the audience for an incredible ride. The fact that The Ataxian has won audience awards at several film festivals attests to the fact its message is one we can all relate to: The young people in the film dwell on what they have, not what has been lost; and they are trying to help others. The film does a great job of telling their story, and most in the audience seem to leave the theater uplifted, grateful, and teary-eyed.

I saw this film at a private screening in Seattle. What a treat to be one of the first groups to see this incredible work.

The production,the cinematography and the music are exceptional. The film tells the story well of the journey undertaken by a team of athletes.

If you get the chance to see The Ataxian, you should not miss it. It will make you smile, feel intense emotion for the challenges some young people face.

Most of all it will fill your heart with love and hope.

I can't wait for this film to hit the big screen and be available for the world to see.

just plain beautiful!

Check out this movie, you won't be disappointed. It is the compelling story of people with a rare disease and their loved ones who bravely rode their cycles in the Race Across America (RAAM) to raise funds and awareness to fight that disease. It is beautifully shot with great music. The commentaries during the film are very moving. You meet people with Friedreich's ataxia (FA, the rare disease in question), their families, and their loved ones. One amazing aspect of this disease and the accomplishment of the riders - not only is FA disabling, which is readily apparent, but it causes extreme fatigue...these guys accomplished the RAAM on four hours a night of sleep. We come to see how they have not let FA define what is possible in their lives.