Persistence is a running theme in this enjoyable and occasionally heart-stopping documentary that follows adult twin brothers Kevin Flint and Brian Flint as each chases their dreams. Athletic Brian, who was an Olympic hopeful in water polo, left his corporate finance job to work at a resort in the Caribbean where he became enamored of high-flying trapeze performers, thus beginning his quest to train and become an accomplished professional trapeze artist.
Of the first of many moves, he moved to Los Angeles where he received professional training with a long-term goal of becoming a member of Montreal-based Cirque du Soleil, a coveted position with many worthy applicants.
Ferry boat deckhand Kevin’s aspirations involved filmmaking and so he embarked on a journey to film his brother’s quests that take the globetrotting siblings to Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, and North America where Brian trains with masters, tries to reduce performance anxiety, attempts to gain confidence and master his skills. The coverage spans over eight years through successes, failures, injuries, and disappointments.
Performance and practice footage accent interviews and well-shot footage of Brian meeting with Cirque scouts, small circus owners, trapeze mentors, and others and performing in smaller shows and trying to perfect major tricks, including the passing leap and legendary triple without relying on safety lines. Disappointing phone calls from Cirque saying “No one received a contract” would be the death knell for many but Brian, who was in his 30s when he began his circus journey, perseveres.
No spoiler alerts as viewers will have to watch the whole program to see if Brian ever performs with Cirque du Soleil. Suggested for public library collections for entertainment purposes and as a potential discussion starter about goals, commitment, determination, rejection, and pursuing one’s dreams against all odds. Recommended.