Over The Limit is a phenomenal documentary directed by Marta Prus, that takes the audience behind the dazzling costumes and beautiful routines of rhythmic gymnasts, and into the world of blood, sweat and tears.
The film features Russian Rhythmic gymnast Margarita Mamun, who was always considered the “number 2 girl” after her fellow competitor Yana Kudryatseva. Throughout the documentary, we witness the harsh reality of gymnastics, and how the ones who are coming anything but first are considered a failure to their coaches as well as their country. Prus records the intense verbal pressure thrown at Mamun by the head of Russia’s National Gymnastics Team, Irina Viner-Usmanova, and what she faces on a day to day basis to pursue her dream of attending the Olympics.
The film emphasises on the immense pressure gymnasts are put under to perform well, as well as the challenge to balance their profession with their personal life. We see this through Mamun, who tries to reach her Olympic dream as well as caring for her sick father, and managing a long distance relationship with her partner. The documentary also shows how much sacrifice and determination it takes to be an Olympic champion, and the almost fading passion and motivation all athletes seem to get stuck in at one point in their career.
Over The Limit is an amazing film that gave me a new appreciation of gymnasts, and their remarkable strength to push through the hardest situations all in the hopes of standing on the podium.
Larisa Jacono
Over the Limit
Sydney Film Festival