Slaying the Badger: The Undying Legend of Cycling — A Documentary Review Everyone Should Watch

If you think professional cycling started with Lance Armstrong, you're wrong. Before the American giant rose, there was a man named Greg LeMond who made the Tour de France known worldwide. The documentary Slaying the Badger (2014), directed by John Dower, takes you back to one of the most intense races in cycling history: the battle between LeMond and Bernard Hinault, aka 'The Badger,' in the 1986 Tour de France.

Plot Summary (No Spoilers)

The documentary begins by introducing Greg LeMond, a young American who dared to challenge the dominance of Bernard Hinault, the French champion who had won the Tour de France five times. Hinault was nicknamed 'The Badger' for his ferocity and tenacity, but LeMond was no ordinary rider. He became the first American to win the Tour de France in 1986, after being runner-up the previous year. The film delves into the 'cunning plan' devised by the La Vie Claire team for Hinault to help LeMond, which instead turned into a psychological war where both sought victory.

Performance and Characters

Being a documentary, the main characters are the real Greg LeMond and Bernard Hinault, who sit down to tell their stories from their own perspectives. LeMond appears polite and gentle but with underlying determination, while Hinault is the opposite — fierce, cunning, and relentless. Their relationship is portrayed through interviews and archival footage, clearly showing both friendship and conflict. Additionally, team manager Paul Köchli and Kathy LeMond, Greg's wife, add depth to the personal side. Notably, famous commentator Phil Liggett provides insights, bringing the race to life.

Direction, Cinematography, and Music

John Dower chooses to use actual race footage from 1986 and 1985, along with interviews with key figures, giving us a glimpse of the pre-high-tech era. The shots of cycling through the Alps and Pyrenees are as beautiful as paintings. The music score is simple but fits the mood, especially during tense mountain climbs. Dower also incorporates 80s songs to add a classic touch. Additionally, animated route maps help viewers easily understand race strategies.

Editorial Analysis

Slaying the Badger is not just a sports documentary; it's a human story full of ambition and vulnerability. What makes it compelling is taking us behind the scenes of a race that wasn't just about beauty but also team politics, betrayal, and forgiveness. In an era dominated by Armstrong's scandal, this film reminds us that there was a time when the sport was purer. And if you enjoy intense sports history stories, you might be interested in คลิปเอวีญี่ปุ่นใหม่ which compiles similar documentaries.

Verdict

Slaying the Badger is a concise yet powerful documentary, perfect for both cycling lovers and those curious about the behind-the-scenes story of a legendary race. Though a bit short, it's comprehensive and engaging. If you like sports documentaries with emotion and strategy, don't miss this one.