Written and directed by Martyn Robertson, just nine months after a horrific accident, Ethan Walker decides to cycle from Scotland to Germany for Scotland’s opening match against Germany in Euro 2024.
It would be hard to deny the appeal of this story, a classic tale of the strength of the human spirit and the power of resilience. Martyn Robertson captures an incredibly wholesome story in Make it to Munich. It’s one founded in passion and determination in the face of difficult odds, of not being held back by one terrible moment in life. The tone that Robertson builds is one filled with community, support and dedication. It’s heart-warming to watch and does a good job of keeping the focus on Ethan Walker and not the gory details of his accident and injuries.
Perhaps the most interesting element is how Walker approaches life post-accident and how his recovery sparks so much interest. He has a wonderfully grounded perspective on it and despite taking part in the documentary, clearly does not want any extra attention or special treatment for what he’s been through. At the time of Make it to Munich, Walker is facing a difficult turning point, the prospect of moving away from the dream career he’s had his heart set on his whole life. It adds some compelling layers to the film.
Although, it doesn’t feel like a great deal of time is dedicated to it, there was a much bigger conversation to be had but in fairness, that decision could have likely been influenced by paying deference to Walker’s youth and not pushing him to face that reality too strongly on camera. It is however something that holds Make it to Munich back slightly. There was more emotional ground to be covered, with Walker, his family and others, as well as perhaps what their hopes are for garnering more attention to their cause, and who it could potentially help in the future. So, with so much of the focus on the ride itself, it can feel like a lot of the same.
There isn’t anything wrong with that, there’s plenty of scenic backdrops, the men all have a great sense of humour and a good banter. They’re a charming bunch, particularly Walker who comes across as such a grounded, lovely lad but that by itself can only offer so much. With the uses of animation and fonts throughout the film, there’s something of a first film feel about Make it to Munich despite it actually being Martyn Robertson’s third documentary feature. The overall style feels matched to Walker, to capture his youth and that typical football fan essence, but it can also feel a little rough around the edges.
Make it to Munich is a wonderful story and while Ethan Walker may be humble, there’s no denying that his road to recovery is inspiring because so many others might have given into the pain and suffering. It’s full of resilience and a superb example of not focusing on what you lose but on evolving your goals to make them fit your new life. However, the style and depth of the documentary feel a touch underdeveloped. That jovial, friendly style is engaging but it can only take the film so far until it feels like it’s stuck in the same rhythm. It simply needed to explore a little wider to reach its full potential.
FilmCarnage.com 