The Flying Scotsman

Obree's real-life story is interesting and inspirational, but I'm not really sure this film does it the justice it deserves. The scenes which tackle his battle with depression are sensitively handled, and the conversation with Brian Cox by the lake was quite moving. But the cinematography and acting was just flat and uninspired, and the cycling scenes towards the end started edging towards your normal triumph-over-adversity beating-the-odds cheesiness.

superb story

This is a decent film of one mans determination and perseverance to make a name for himself in his chosen sport field of cycling. I admit I'm no fan of cyclists per se but this film is certainly good at making the viewer appreciate the hard work Graeme put in to be able to do his world record track attempts. As a character, Graeme is certainly someone its easy for most people to get behind - at least as a slightly eccentric (sports based) entrepreneur of sorts I suppose. A decent enough watch.

A worthy film which tries hard to show the life of a cyclist, but never finds the right gear. Obree's career makes an interesting Wikipedia entry but doesn't translate well to the big screen. Too much of the back story is glossed over and Jonny Lee Miller doesn't really convince as either a possessed genius, a champion athlete, or a depressive. He looks more like an mildly anguished amateur hobbyist. Most of the scenes feel too false and cinemafied. Nothing beats real life for genuine drama.

Good for a one time watch

Hooray for the creativity and passion of Scots!