As in any classic sports film, Murderball offers edge-of-your-seat suspense with thrilling action, rivalry and victory. However, this true story is told with an unusual twist, as it takes the audience on an inspirational journey through the extraordinary life struggles of a group of paraplegic men who come together as a team to compete in the Paralympics, playing Quad Rugby, originally known as Murderball.

This documentary is bold, brave and blunt, just like the characters within it. Any pity that the audience may have for these men is immediately dispelled when they introduce life from their angle in the most abrupt, yet humorous approach. Once you get past their initial vulgarity and machismo, you cannot help but laugh, and cry, with the men as they educate you about the challenges that one faces when suddenly confined to a wheelchair. These daily battles are as much mental as they are physical and this is portrayed in an all too real way as each character illustrates how they came to terms with adapting to the overwhelming changes that occurred overnight. It also communicates some sobering messages to the audience about their own priorities, for these men have ended up in wheelchairs for a variety of reasons ? including car accidents, the result of speeding and drunk driving.

Filmed in a classic documentary style, the movie truly takes the audience along with the men. The style of cinematography and direction gives a ?real-time? feeling and this intensifies each success, failure and collision that the characters face. From the manic rugby courts into their private homes, the viewers are exposed to the most personal traumas and triumphs of each character, appealing to every emotion and shedding light on many of the questions that most people are afraid to ask regarding the handicapped.

This enlightening story also provides a different perspective on how society treats people with physical handicaps. Any misconceptions or stereotypes that one may have about the ambitions and capabilities of handicapped people are obliterated. These men did not let a wheelchair limit them in life and they have actually accomplished many things that they wouldn?t have done as able-bodied men. In fact, many of the characters admit to becoming more active since being in wheelchairs.

Although this is a movie about rugby, it is truly a love story ? a love of life and a love of winning. The film is equally educational as it is encouraging and although the stories are quite tragic, they offer hope. The portrayal of these true stories stamps a vivid and somewhat raw imprint in the viewers mind about life without limbs and makes one stop to think and appreciate everything they have to help them through each day ? all of their limbs.

Film Rating: a must see.