Confessions of a runner

Watch the trailer

Year: 2020

Country of production: Lebanon

Length: 29 min

Languages: English, Arabic

Subtitles: English, Arabic

Synopsis

Confessions of a Runner features Patrick Vaughan—an accomplished trail runner, small business owner, parent, and survivor of serious physical impairments—as he shares his story of healing and redemption while pursuing the record for completing the Lebanon Mountain Trail 470km.

What People Are Saying

“A blend of eye-popping scenery, extreme human achievement, and revealing personal stories, Confessions of a Runner is unscripted and unpredictable. Unlike runners pursuing Olympic medals, or fame and glory, Ultra-runners have more complex reasons for their all-consuming hobby.”

— Timothy Rockwood, Producer

“Marked by a rare truthfulness and authenticity of emotion, Bachar Khattar's film Confessions of a Runner tells the inspiring story of a broken man who rises to a challenge he sets for himself. Patrick Vaughan redefines himself on the way to breaking the record for completing the 470 km Lebanon Mountain Trail in less than eight days. Archival material, local music, and brilliant candid camera add to the film, making for an inspiring and compelling experience.”

— Reena Mohan - BANFF2020 Jury Member

“Confessions of a Runner is a personal journey taken stride by stride along the spine of Lebanon’s scenic mountains. The film is a testament to the healing qualities of pushing one’s mind and body to the brink and coming through the darkness of depression and addiction using ultra-running as the vehicle. Director Bachar Khattar’s delicate treatment of the broken protagonist, Patrick Vaughan, allows the viewer to genuinely enter the experience of redemption and self-discovery while breaking records along the way. For excellence and authenticity in filmmaking, the 2021 VIMFF Film Jury is pleased to award the Best Mountain Sports Film to Bachar Khattar and Confessions of a Runner.”

— Joanna Croston - VIMFF 2021 Jury Member

Q&A with the director and the star of the film.

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