Chasing the Thunder (Marc Benjamin, 2018): USA

Reviewed by Brianna Franklin. Viewed at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival 2018, Riviera Theater.

Originally part of a six-part series for Animal Planet, Chasing the Thunder is much more than a documentary. Between the cast of characters and the thriller-like pacing, this film encapsulates what a documentary should be: a yummy recipe.

RECIPE FOR A GOOD DOCUMENTARY

1 part story

half a teaspoon of humor

2 parts suspense

dash of politics (not too much, or it will ruin the flavor)

1 part straight information

Preheat your editor to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Begin by rolling the story onto the counter with a rolling pin. Add the dash of politics and rub into the dough, until you can barely see it. In a separate bowl, add the humor with the straight information. Stir until just blended. Put the mixture in a small pan over medium heat on the stove. Boil until fragrant, then add the suspense. Stir quickly, and immediately take off of the stove when blended. Allow mixture to cool to room temperature. Put dough on cookie sheet and pour mixture directly onto dough, avoiding any spillage. Fold dough in half and put into oven. Bake for 35 minutes, or until golden. Let cool for 5 minutes. Serve immediately with attention.