The Impossible Hour (1974)
The Impossible Hour is a concentrated study of Ole Ritter's attempt in Mexico City in 1974 to set a new record for the hour - described in the film as "the noblest, most difficult record that can be set on a bicycle". A brief retrospective in black and white sets the historical framework, with shots of Ritter and Eddy Merckx' successful record attempts in 1968 and 1972 respectively, and a few words about former record holders such as Fausto Coppi.The film follows Ritter's three record attempts chronologically, which, accompanied by a Mexican marching band on the bandstand, all fail.
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It's hard to see any effort in the film. There's no comedy to speak of, no real drama and, worst of all.
A clunky actioner with a handful of cool moments.
This is a dark and sometimes deeply uncomfortable drama
The movie really just wants to entertain people.
A documentary about Ole Ritter's attempt to break the hour record. The movie takes place in Mexico City. 'The impossible hour' is not as good as Leth's other cycling movies, but still worth the time. This is more of a straight up documentary, than 'A Sunday in hell' fx.Still 'The impossible ...' gives a fine look in to the world of pro cycling, and a equally fine portrait of danish rider Ole Ritter, and his relationship to teammates on the Bianchi-team. Most notable is a scene where Ritter defends himself to international reporters, and use Leth to get the right message out.