The documentary Running with Demons is an award-winning film that follows Todd Crandell, founder of the non-profit organization Running for Recovery, as he tackles a grueling Ultraman triathlon while sharing the ups and downs of his journey to sobriety and helping others with substance abuse issues. The film utilizes the intensity of the Ultraman race to serve as a parallel for Todd’s story resulting in the powerful and digestible delivery of a profoundly emotional and taxing journey that can easily touch and change anyone who watches it.
The film is a genuine and honest telling of a struggle many have been impacted by, directly or indirectly, but are too afraid or ashamed to share because of the darkness associated with alcohol and drug use. Crandell is candid about the devastation he experienced as a toddler when his mother, a drug addict herself, committed suicide and how this shaped his life going forward. Much like the jarring and disorienting first moments of the swim race at the beginning of the three-day event, Crandell was thrust into murky waters following the trauma and heartbreak he endured at such a young age which led him to make decisions that put himself and others in harm's way.
Audiences, then, follow him through the literal and figurative hills and valleys of the rustic back-country of Penticton, British Columbia, and his journey to becoming a licensed counselor and founding an organization that would help thousands through their struggles with addictions. Crandell does not hold back when it comes to sharing the rewards and costs that have come from his unrelenting desire to help others around the world.
This documentary shows the real and raw effects of spearheading a life-changing campaign that helps so many but is not without personal consequences. “Running with Demons” shines a light on the important and often taboo subject of drug addiction through the telling of a profound and inspiring journey to sobriety, for oneself and for others, that has the ability to impact whoever witnesses it. Rating: 4.5
What academic subjects would this film be suitable for?
There are many academic subjects that I can see this being a great fit for. For high school, I can see this being a great addition to any sort of health-centered class, physical education, health, psychology, etc. Beyond high school, anything that involves physical health, mental health, interpersonal relationships, etc.
What kind of film collection would this title be suitable for?
This film would fit great in a variety of collections: mental health, addiction, inspiring athlete stories, etc.
What subjects or college majors would benefit from the content covered in this film?
Many college majors could benefit from viewing this film in their classrooms. Anything that has to do with mental health and society: social work, sociology, psychology, counseling (especially drug and substance abuse counseling), high education, family development, etc. The documentary itself is beautifully edited and crafted to provide guidance for communications majors as well.