The Fall tells the remarkable story of a South African barefoot runner, an American track-and-field prodigy, and the events behind one of the most memorable moments in sporting history – the 1984 LA Olympics. The film charts two journeys, from rural South Africa under apartheid and the rolling hills of Southern California, to the starting line of the women’s 3,000 metres. It uncovers a tale of betrayal and exploitation, of the blurred lines between politics, media and sport, and of the dedication and sacrifice required to compete at the highest level. It’s a story that split governments and divided nations, but at its heart is a tale of two young women who, despite the turmoil in their lives, just wanted to run.
Direction
Gordon builds unbearable tension from archival footage alone.
Editing
The collision—rewatched in slow agony—still destroys.
Director
Daniel Gordon
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Zola Budd's fake British citizenship—fast-tracked in weeks—sparked parliamentary outrage and protests at UK races.
The real villain? NBC's instant replay obsession turned a racing incident into global shame for two teenagers.
US
GB
