Heart of Invictus is a docu-series covering the Invictus Games that are held to help veterans of war with recovery and rehabilitation through sport. The series is streaming on Netflix.
Story
The 5th Invictus Games were supposed to be held at The Hague in 2020 but due to the global pandemic, it was delayed until it finally took place in 2022. 17 countries took part as service members continued to foster a sense of community through the event.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine comes into the limelight as Yuliia “Taira” Paievska of Team Ukraine was captured by Russian forces was captured during the filming of this series.
The athletes describe the various struggles they go through in their daily lives and the work they put in to come out stronger from it. Prince Harry who is the founder of the games and the patron of the charity foundation is also featured as he meets with the athletes and talks about his own experiences from service.
Positives
The series is immensely emotional and inspiring. Listening to the athletes talk about their experiences and being vulnerable and open is a heart-rending experience.
The coverage of Team Ukraine and the special circumstances under which they attended the games is hard-hitting and poignant. Even Darrell’s admission of truth on camera is incredibly brave and moving.
The series showcases some of the consequences of war and how it can affect not only the people who are involved but also the people around them. It is a noble subject that needs more light shined upon it.
Despite Prince Harry being a central figure in the games, his involvement in the series is kept to a serviceable amount, and the focus is kept on the athletes who are the true heroes in this context.
Negatives
Heart of Invictus can be difficult viewing at times and despite a trigger warning right at the start, nothing can prepare audiences for what they might see or hear on screen.
Verdict
Heart of Invictus is a tear-jerker of a series that covers some inspirational figures and doesn’t shy away from showing them when they’re at their weakest. Each story is motivating and guarantees not a single dry eye by the end of the whole thing.
Heart of Invictus
Director: Orlando von Einsiedel
Date Created: 2023-08-30 12:30
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