Deep Water
The Age
Thursday May 29, 2008
Deep Water
Hopscotch, 93 mins, Gdocumentary, 20063/5.5Filmmakers Louise Osmond and Jerry Rothwell have a fascinating, elusive subject for their documentary, a story whose twists and turns are legion yet whose fundamental mystery stays intact and impenetrable. Deep Water is about Englishman Donald Crowhurst, a participant in an epic challenge in 1968, when nine sailors participated in a solo, non-stop race around the world. At the time, there was tremendous public interest in the endeavour and a prize big enough to tempt a man with money worries. Crowhurst, an engineer and part-time yachtsman who entered at the last possible minute, went from rank outsider to possible winner but his achievement was not what it seemed. In setting out what is known about his journey and reflecting on what might have happened the filmmakers demonstrate imaginative engagement but never fall into the trap of assuming too much or pushing their material too far. The sensitive handling of other figures in the story - Crowhurst's wife, Clare, who is interviewed in the film and fellow competitor the late Bernard Moitessier - add important dimensions.DVD extras include: biographies; interviews; archival materials
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