Social Sciences Essay: A critical review of ‘Back on the Board’ Greg Louganis

A critical review of ‘Back on the Board’ Greg Louganis (2014)
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‘Back on the Board’ is an award-winning documentary film that follows the life of an acclaimed former diver and four-time Olympic champion Greg Louganis. What was a successful winning spree in the history of the sport quickly turns into a sad story when he hits his head on the diving board in 1988 prompting him to retire soon afterward. The film focuses and evaluates the plight of the Olympian on the verge of losing his home and in a bad financial state. As the name of the film implies, Greg Louganis amidst the revelations of being gay and HIV positive struggles to get ‘back on board’. The heart touching refreshing story is timely especially in an era when athletes' success is not only dependent on their hard work but their social, economic, and religious status. The essay seeks to carry out a critical analysis of the documentary film and evaluate what would have made it more effective for the audience.
The film's main strength lies in the rich storyline and it is credibility with Greg Louganis being the star of his own story. The audience can easily find a connection with the film because of the vivid memories and real emotions from the interviews with Greg Louganis and others who played a huge part in his life. The documentary cuts across the athlete's past and most recent events as it moves back and forth highlighting his past success and present lows. The rich storyline makes the film relevant in creating a spotlight around issues affecting athletes including financial troubles, public and media attention, and pressure, career disappointments, prejudice, stereotypes, and homophobia. To reach and tie a lar...