Rise Of The Sufferfests

2016 • 94 minutes

About this movie

Rise of the Sufferfests is the first documentary about Tough Mudder, Spartan Race and the global obstacle course phenomenon. The film asks why millions of people are suddenly paying to suffer through ice, fire, electricity, barbed wire, mud and more… and what it says about the world we’re living in. It features a colorful cast of characters from the cultish “OCR” community, as well as sharp—and often funny—social commentary from thought leaders like Morgan Spurlock, Tim Ferriss, A.J. Jacobs and Hanna Rosin. It also follows the misadventures of journalist-turned-filmmaker Scott Keneally, a self-proclaimed “beta male” who wanders deep into the crucible, tackling some of the world’s most brutal sufferfests. Far from just a movie about mud, it’s a smart, entertaining film about modern life and the journey of a “just enougher” to steel up in the face of fatherhood.

Ratings and reviews

Loved this film! If you're already into OCR you'll love it too. I learned about some of the other races (I've only run Spartan before). I loved learning about the original OCR and Mr. mouse. It's definitely interesting and cool to see the origins of OCR and what it's blown up to today. If you've never run OCR before this will give you insight in to why we love and continue racing and hopefully get some newbies into OCR!

I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Scott and his encounters with all levels of OCR participants. I have been swept up in the OCR wave since 2013 and agree that this is one of the fastest growing sports / activities to hit the planet in the last decade. The film definitely confirmed many of the feelings and ideas I have had about this movement for the last couple years. Thanks for getting me jacked about my next event...Keep Grinding!!!

Rise of the Sufferfest. What an excellent movie. It is filled with many many interesting people. The movie is about more than just the rise of OCR, it looks at the link between modern day technology and the rise of wanting to get out of our comfort zones. While it may have been made by an amateur film maker, you would never know it. It goes deep into the culture and psychology of OCR and human culture as a whole. Check it out even if you don't pertake in OCR. it has something for everyone.