MOVIE REVIEW
Pay Dirt: The Story of Supercross
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024, 2025
Runtime: 1h 31m
Director(s): Paul Taublieb
Where To Watch: in select theaters January 24, 2025
RAVING REVIEW: Few sports combine grit, speed, physical prowess, and pure adrenaline like Supercross, yet it often exists outside the mainstream spotlight. PAY DIRT: THE STORY OF SUPERCROSS seeks to change that, delivering a high-energy and informative look at this demanding motorsport. With Josh Brolin lending his distinctive voice as narrator and filmmaker Paul Taublieb steering the creative vision, the film strikes a balance between thrilling action and reflective storytelling, inviting audiences into a world defined by courage and resilience.
What truly sets this documentary apart is its commitment to showcasing the multifaceted nature of Supercross. Instead of merely cataloging its highlights, the film takes viewers back to the sport’s roots in 1972, revealing its humble beginnings and the individuals who made it what it is today. One standout narrative is that of Michael Goodwin, a visionary whose contributions to the sport remain undeniable despite the personal controversy surrounding him. His complex story introduces tension and moral ambiguity that elevates the documentary beyond the confines of a typical sports film.
Brolin's narration is the perfect throughline, guiding the audience with a voice that exudes authority and relatability. His ability to balance intensity with subtle empathy ensures that the film resonates with a wide range of viewers, regardless of their familiarity with Supercross. The narration enhances both the breakneck energy of the races and the quieter, introspective moments, making the viewing experience dynamic.
Taublieb’s direction is another highlight; his expertise brings finesse to PAY DIRT. From sweeping aerial shots of dirt tracks to the in-your-face intensity of a rider tackling a challenging course, the cinematography immerses the viewer in the raw energy of Supercross. Archival footage seamlessly combines interviews and action sequences, giving the film depth and flair. This approach transforms the documentary into an exhilarating and informative journey.
One of the film’s most substantial aspects is its focus on the riders who have shaped Supercross over the decades. Interviews with legends like Jeremy McGrath, Bob Hannah, Ricky Johnson, and Ricky Carmichael reveal the dedication, sacrifices, and triumphs that define their careers. Their anecdotes bring an emotional depth to the narrative, humanizing the larger-than-life feats seen on the track. The film connects the audience and its subjects by highlighting their victories and struggles.
While compelling, the emphasis on Goodwin’s story sometimes overshadows the broader exploration of Supercross’s evolution. While his narrative undeniably adds intrigue, a more balanced approach might have allowed other aspects of the sport’s history to shine. Additionally, the film could have included more explanations of Supercross’s technical elements, providing newcomers with a clearer understanding of its challenges and mechanics.
Slow-motion shots capture the athleticism and precision required to master the sport, while dynamic camera angles amplify the intensity of each race. The tight and purposeful editing ensures a seamless flow between the historical context, personal interviews, and high-octane action sequences.
Brolin has praised the documentary’s unfiltered approach, emphasizing how it avoids dictating how audiences should feel. Instead, the film presents its subjects and stories honestly, allowing viewers to make their own conclusions. This genuineness sets PAY DIRT apart from many other documentaries that rely heavily on manufactured drama or emotional manipulation.
At its heart, PAY DIRT: THE STORY OF SUPERCROSS celebrates human determination and the pursuit of excellence. The film successfully mixes the sport's history with the personal journeys of its most iconic figures, creating an inspiring and thought-provoking narrative. It captures the spectacle of Supercross and the grit and passion that fuel it.
For seasoned Supercross fans, the documentary provides a rich and detailed exploration of the sport they love. For newcomers, it is an accessible and exciting introduction to a world where risk and reward collide. PAY DIRT is a testament to the power of perseverance, offering an experience that stays with you long after the credits roll.
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[photo courtesy of MONKEY WRENCH FILMS, TAUBLIEB FILMS]
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