Shoulder the Lion

Married filmmakers Patryk and Erinnisse Rebisz's stylish and powerful documentary Shoulder the Lion centers on three individuals who cope with the onset of disabilities that disrupt their artistic aims. Irish musician Graham Sharpe develops tinnitus at the very moment that his rock band is poised to take off, forcing him to quit playing electric guitar and performing. Photographer Alice Wingwall, who is enjoying a thriving career, gradually goes blind due to retinal disease. And Katie Dallam, whose story inspired Clint Eastwood's film Million Dollar Baby, was a poet and educational psychology student when her opponent in a boxing ring beat her head so badly that she was in a coma for weeks, left unable to speak or otherwise function for some time. But in each case, these individuals found a way to redefine their passions and purpose. Sharpe could no longer play, but he initiated and produced an annual music festival drawing thousands of people. Yes, he'd rather be on stage than solving logistical problems behind the scenes, but Sharpe knows that he is making a large contribution to music culture. Wingwall, while unable to see through her camera's viewfinder, still shoots images that are driven by the ideas that have always informed her art—only now she comes up with a visual concept and holds the camera while someone else maneuvers her hands to frame a shot. Dallam, having struggled her way back to speaking and walking, has turned to painting as a release for her emotions and avenue for her ideas. While the film sometimes suffers from strained artiness (slow motion and a pointless formalism to many shots), the people and stories are quite compelling, reminding viewers that oftentimes a loss will open the door to a different opportunity. Extras include audio commentary by the directors, and a behind-the-scenes slideshow. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh)