User reviews

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 movie in Athens, GA in a small cinema called Cine'. I went to the cinema not knowing what to expect. This movie was wonderful. I gives you an inside look at the life of people with a debilitating disease called Friedrich's Ataxia. The main character in the film suffers from this disease, but wanted to "make his mark" on the world and set out to assemble a team to attempt a daring bike ride. His goal is to raise awareness of this rare disease and to help raise funds for research. This movie made me laugh at times and I also cried. I felt a full range of emotions. Leaving the cinema, the film left me inspired and wanting to "make my mark" as well. This film is a must see. It is a 10 of 10.

Awesome and inspiring movie. Had the chance to meet Kyle and Sean and they are as cool, funny, well spoken, positive, crazy and inspiring in real life as they are on camera. Ten years after this ride, they are still cycling and working to increase awareness of FA. Highly recommend!

I had the pleasure to see this in a private screening and loved it. I knew a little about Kyle and Friedrich's Ataxia going in, and came away with a lot more than knowledge. This is a genuine and totally inspirational film that I would see again. The tag line is everything "life is about how you react" - the stark reality of a progressive, degenerative rare disease is a backdrop for making the most of your life, for stepping into meaningful action, and for creating a hopeful future for yourself and for others - a lesson for every single one of us!

Thank you to Kyle and Sean and John and Mike and the race crew and the film crew and the folks at FARA for pouring yourself into this project.

This film should be out there in the world - Kyle is a change-agent and the film is a change agent.

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!

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

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.

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.

About 7 years ago I relocated the CrossFit location we are at today, CrossFit King of Prussia (200 DeKalb Street in Bridgeport Pa)...about three years later this young man named Kyle Bryant contacted me about joining...in 2012 CrossFit.com made this video https://youtu.be/rHlC1W9r704 and tonight, I had the honor of watching The Ataxian. How would you react to a life debilitating and fatal illness? "The Ataxian" shows the world that it is possible for one man to take action and change a community and world. I'm not only humbled to know this man, but honored to touch his hand, tell him he is handsome and have helped him do a few squats along the way. The courage and mindset Kyle has is one which I have learned from and continue to grow. Thank you sir for teaching me yet another lesson in life. I will do what I can to raise money and #cureFA

and the movie...these guys did an AMAZING job...I wish I had a venue to share this with everyone. There is so much heart in this film, love, caring and dedication. Bring your tissues. You will leave wanting more.

What a great movie. Inspirational and motivational. When God gives you lemons, make lemonade.

I had the privilege of previewing this movie at a private showing in Athens, Georgia. I now know why THE ATAXIAN has won several film festival audience awards.

Kyle and the team's story is compelling, inspiring and motivating. The production is incredible - the story line, photography, soundtrack and personal interviews all contribute the film's power.

The audience both laughed and cried. The "acting" was not really acting because it was simply a powerful portrayal of the reality of the lives of the people being followed. The film will cause you to think about your priorities, your purpose and your focus in life. It is an uplifting and compelling story that will not soon be forgotten.