Marathon Beirut

While many major cities host annual marathons, the Beirut race has taken on a deeper resonance, according to Deborah Harse's documentary, which portrays it as a unifying endeavor for the country's multicultural population and a symbol of Lebanese perseverance in the face of internecine conflict and military clashes with neighboring Israel. Harse's film interweaves interview snippets with extensive footage detailing the 2006 run, which was particularly harrowing. The nation had barely recovered from the damage of the July 2006 Israeli invasion and was eager to move forward, but five days before the contest, the assassination of government minister Pierre Gemayel raised the question of whether the marathon should proceed. The decision to move forward with the event—which included two additional shorter races plus a vibrant cultural festival—provoked controversy in some segments of the country, but ultimately proved to be a crowd-pleasing triumph that strengthened the national spirit. Despite its athletic subject, the film is occasionally too loose-limbed for its own good—especially early on, when considerable time is squandered getting nearly every volunteer in the planning offices on camera for commentary. Nonetheless, Marathon Beirut offers a unique perspective into contemporary Lebanese society, while also reaffirming the undeniable social power generated by sporting events. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)