Impossible Dreamers

The image of seniors heading into decline after a certain age is thoroughly thrashed in this excellent documentary by filmmakers Eric Goldfarb and Erik Howell that focuses on elders who keep themselves healthy by constantly moving. In an age where meds of all stripes are peddled for health woes, Impossible Dreamers underscores the healing and rejuvenating power of pedaling (and walking, jogging, swimming, playing tennis, golfing, and other activities) as a common-sense alternative. Especially inspiring here is octogenarian Doc Cheek, who is (as his students call him) a “dope-ass professor” of critical thinking at Fresno State University who is just as concerned about getting off the starting block as he races the 100-yard dash as he is about his students. As he puts it, unlike some seniors “I don't sit around talking about my [health ills]; I talk about being cutting edge in what I'm doing.” Doc's story is echoed throughout as many senior athletes discuss how they approach—and are in control of—their own health in their golden years. There are some serious competitors featured here (as in record-breaking serious), but the message reaches across varying levels of physical abilities and skills: moving keeps us all young, so keep on truckin'. Highly recommended. [Note: this is also available with public performance rights for public libraries for $129 and for colleges and universities for $249 from Better World Film Group at www.impossibledreamers.org.] Aud: P. (C. Block)