Film & TV

Film Review: Tour de Legacy: The Western Front

Tour de Legacy riders

This moving documentary follows a group of cyclists, riding through the battlefields of Flanders, to raise money for Legacy.

For nearly 100 years, Legacy has cared for the families of those who have served in the armed forces. One of its major fundraisers is now the Tour de Legacy: a bike trek ridden by members and supporters of the organization. Last year the tour went through the battlefields of Flanders. Twenty-three participants rode from London to Villers-Brettoneux, smashing out around 100 kilometres per day.

Renowned local film-makers Wayne Groom and Carolyn Bilsborow traveled with the riders, in order to produce this exquisite documentary.

Tour de Legacy explains the work that Legacy does, and also gives us an intimate portrait of a group of non-professional riders, pushing themselves through a grueling trek. But the real depth and beauty of this work comes from the history which unfolds as the group visit major memorials and cemeteries along the way. Many of the participants have personal pilgrimages to make: uncles or grandfathers killed in some of the worst battles of World War I. These scenes are incredibly and unexpectedly moving.

Says director Wayne Groom ” Carolyn and I were honoured that Legacy asked us to make the documentary. We have made many new and unexpected friends, I have stopped complaining about cyclists hogging the road and now make way for them!”

With beautiful scenery, harrowing but fascinating history, authoritative yet unobtrusive narration by Gary Sweet, and interviews with riders and Legacy personnel, this film never lags in interest and entertainment. More than just a record of the ride, Tour de Legacy is a fantastic piece of film in its own right.

DVD copies of the film are available from Legacy, and other screenings may be organized around Australia. There may also be a TV screening around Remembrance Day, so keep an eye open.

Click here to contact Legacy for further information.

Moving 4 stars

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