Directed by Jake Scott and produced by Ross Plummer, Kipchoge: The Last Milestone tells the awe-inspiring story of olympian Eliud Kipchoge breaking the marathon record of under two hours. The documentary begins with Kipchoge deciding to attempt to break the record, and follows his preparation and training, both mental and physical, through the completion of the event. When speaking in support of the film, Jake Scott made a connection between Kipchoge and fellow world-renowned athletes Colin Kaepernick and Simon Biles.
Jake Scott spoke with CinemaBlend for his latest film Kipchoge: The Last Milestone. When asked about the biggest challenge in documenting Eliud Kipchoge’s record-breaking journey, he revealed it was not so much a challenge as something held great importance to him, which was honoring Kipchoge’s message and beliefs. I then asked Scott for his thoughts on creating something that is sure to inspire many viewers to go after their own dreams, and he said the following:
This actually goes back to what you asked me about what the challenge is... I really think if it does that, what you just said, if we are able to convey that message [of inspiring people to go after their dreams], and it's not just seen as a rallying cry for excelling in athletics, but to [excel] in your own particular truth. Sports have been incredible the last couple of years. I mean, look at what Simone Biles has done at the Olympics and, you know, the amazing, courageous Colin Kaepernick, like these incredibly great voices standing up and trying to sort of, not defy, but speak the truth, you know, and I really really admire that. I think if the film can inspire, then we've done something nice. We've done something good.
Jake Scott’s mention of Kipchoge: The Last Milestone being seen as a story of excelling in one's own truth rather than a rallying cry for athletic greatness is one of my favorite things about the film. Viewers who are not athletes can still relate to Eliud Kipchoge’s message that no human is limited. He says in the film that he wants to show people that they can achieve what they put their minds to (as well as work and train for), regardless of the particular circumstances.
When looking up to any public figure or celebrity, it’s easy to compare their talent to your own and think that you can’t do something. Part of the beauty of Kipchoge: The Last Milestone is that while Eliud Kipchoge is the one that broke the record, he didn’t do it alone. He had a full team of athletes, nutritionists, scientists, as well as an emotional support system, with him every step of the way.
Kipchoge: The Last Milestone is now available On Digital. Watch the film’s trailer here. For more documentaries and biopics, CinemaBlend has you covered. Check out these sports movies for athlete-centered fiction.
