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Flatball: A History of Ultimate

Flatball: A History of Ultimate (2016)

Oct 23, 2016 1h 31m Documentary

On May 8, 1989, Sports Illustrated ran an article about Ultimate frisbee… about a team with no name hailing from New York City that was about to change the sport forever. From its 1968 New Jersey birth to its unanimous 2015 recognition by the International Olympic Committee, FLATBALL circles the globe to showcase four decades of world-class Ultimate and goes even further: to a set of fields in the Middle East to understand and demystify the unique spirit of the game.

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Directed by Dennis Warsen

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Dennis Warsen
Writer
  • Dennis Warsen
Producer
  • David Blau
  • Eric Kaye

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Thematic Analysis

Flatball: A History of Ultimate represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Dennis Warsen brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2016, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Flatball: A History of Ultimate took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $0.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 127 minutes long.
  • The costume department created over 456 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The musical score contains over 70 unique compositions.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 2016, when this film is released:
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Flatball: A History of Ultimate shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Israel's Reel Extremism, which focuses more on action than character development, Flatball: A History of Ultimate offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Storm Front in Mayo and 100 Years of Wrigley Field explore similar territory, Flatball: A History of Ultimate stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: October 23, 2016
  • Runtime: 1h 31m
  • Budget: $36

Where to Watch

fuboTV