Marathon

The story

For this documentary, the renowned Spanish filmmaker Carlos Saura created a structure as unconventional as the Gaudí buildings that adorn the host city of Barcelona. Coverage of the men's marathon appears at intervals throughout the narrative, highlighting the Games' most iconic event. While charismatic winners—from 400m champion Michael Johnson to weightlifter Ivan Ivanov—take center stage, Saura observes rigorous training sessions with as much passion as the finals themselves. Composers such as Ryuichi Sakamoto, Mikis Theodorakis, and Angelo Badalamenti contribute to the shifting atmosphere of this excellent film.

Cast & crew

Michael JordanSelf

Carl LewisSelf

Hassiba BoulmerkaSelf

Jackie Joyner-KerseeSelf

Gail DeversSelf

Magic JohnsonSelf

Linford ChristieSelf

Juan Carlos ISelf

Larry BirdSelf

Mike Marsh

Mike MarshSelf

Nixon Kiprotich

Nixon KiprotichSelf

Heike Henkel

Heike HenkelSelf