Search - Speedo: A Demolition Derby Love Story on DVD

A demolition derby love story . . .

Ronald Scheer | Los Angeles | 12/25/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This award-winning documentary follows Ed "Speedo" Jager, a 41-year-old demolition derby driver as he competes during the years 1999-2000 from his home base on Long Island. He is a pistol, a driven man, and someone to contend with, while also being the loving father of two boys and at the same time on the verge of divorce. Filmmaker Jesse Moss (as we learn in the commentary) is attracted first by Jager's competitive performance as he struggles for the recognition he craves and then discovers the complexities of his personal life. Dubbed a "love story," the film celebrates with him the emergence of a fulfilling relationship with another woman, who takes a more sympathetic and active interest in his life as a demo driver and his dreams of becoming a stock car racer.

The film opens a window into a world most audiences would not consider film-worthy, but Moss makes Jager's story fascinating, touching, and finally exciting. When you first see him, grimy, long-haired, and exhausted after a disappointing demolition event, you wonder how you'll ever get interested in him, and by the end of the film, you're cheering along with him - an everyman just doing the best he can to live his dream against the odds. Unusual for a documentary, the DVD includes a commentary by Moss and Jager, who through the process of making this film have become close friends. Definitely worthy seeing."