‘Full Circle’ Netflix Review - Beyond Limits of Resilience and Redefinition

Full Circle isn't your typical sports documentary. Forget neatly-lined stadiums and roaring crowds. Instead, prepare to be hurled into the adrenaline-pumping realm of adaptive athletes, where wheelchairs carve powder on mountainsides, and prosthetic legs conquer icy peaks. This film, directed by Josh Berman, transcends the limitations of genre, morphing into a poignant exploration of resilience, redefinition, and the relentless pursuit of passion.

At the heart of Full Circle lie two extraordinary individuals: Trevor Kennison, a sit-skier whose viral descent down a treacherous Alaskan mountain catapulted him to fame, and Barry Corbet, a legendary one-legged alpinist defying gravity on towering ice walls. Their stories, interwoven with archival footage and interviews with pioneers of adaptive sports, paint a powerful portrait of a community pushing boundaries and rewriting narratives.

Kennison's journey is electrifying. We witness his raw determination as he tackles slopes that would intimidate seasoned skiers, the wind whipping through his hair as he carves perfect arcs on his specially designed sit-ski. But Full Circle doesn't shy away from the challenges. We see the grueling training sessions, the crashes that threaten to derail his dreams, and the emotional toll of constantly exceeding expectations. Kennison's vulnerability is as captivating as his athleticism, reminding us that even the most fearless warriors battle invisible demons.

Corbet's story is a masterclass in defying expectations. We glimpse his early days scaling mountains with nothing but sheer grit and ingenuity, witnessing him fashion his own prosthetics in the pre-dawn hours before tackling icy giants. His quiet wisdom and understated humor provide a counterpoint to Kennison's fiery spirit, yet their shared passion for pushing boundaries binds them.

Full Circle isn't just about individual feats; it's a celebration of a community. We meet Paralympians, veterans, and everyday heroes who refuse to let physical limitations define them. The film delves into the history of adaptive sports, showcasing the tireless efforts of pioneers who fought for recognition and accessibility. These are the unsung heroes, the inventors and advocates who paved the way for the athletes we see today.

But Full Circle isn't without its flaws. The film occasionally falters into hagiography, glossing over some of the darker realities faced by adaptive athletes. The issues of funding, discrimination, and inadequate infrastructure receive a cursory mention, leaving one yearning for a deeper exploration.

Despite these shortcomings, Full Circle remains a powerful and inspiring watch. It leaves you breathless from the sheer athleticism, humbled by the unwavering spirit, and with a renewed appreciation for the boundless potential of the human spirit. 

This isn't just a documentary about overcoming physical limitations; it's a reminder that the greatest obstacles are often internal and that the truest victories are the ones we win over ourselves. So, strap in, buckle up, and prepare to be swept away by Full Circle. It's a journey that will redefine your ideas of possibility and leave you yearning to conquer your own personal mountains.

Final Score – [8/10]
Reviewed by - Arpita Mondal
Publisher at Midgard Times