Deep Water

2006 narrative documentary

Rating: 15/20

Plot: Cheerful story of Donald Crowhurst, an amateur sailor who takes part in a 1968-69 race in which participants solo circumnavigate the globe. He doesn't win. This details the psychological and physical effects of the gruelling race.

Utterly fascinating Man v. Nature story, made more compelling by the fact that this Crowhurst fellow, a father of four, had absolutely no business being anywhere near this. The story's captivating enough as one of adventure and the drama generally associated with that sort of thing, but the real intrigue is in the decisions this guy makes. Not just the decision to impulsively enter the race but the decisions that take place as he runs into treacherous seas, boat problems, and the mental anguish of being completely isolated for so long. Interviews with family, friends, and competitors are intertwined with Crowhurst's audio journals, his writings, and video he shot during his journey. The lengths he goes to not give up in this race are amazing to watch (basically, he cheats in a variety of ways), and the ending for his story is unforgettable. Equally interesting is the side story of another sailor, Bernard Moitessier, who despite being in contention to win the race, makes the befuddling decision to go around the world a second time instead.