Big River Man

A FILM BY John Maringouin

An odd and irresistible documentary.

- Liam Lacey, Globe and Mail

As his attention to detail and beauty shots prove, Mr. Maringouin has a terrific eye? he brings you close to Mr. Strel, sometimes within panting distance, without forgetting the larger, lovelier world.

- Manohla Dargis, New York Times

Synopsis

Martin Strel is an eccentric Slovenian endurance swimmer -- an "eco-superhero" who traverses rivers to raise awareness about pollution. In 2007, he attempts his greatest feat yet: to swim 3,375 miles down the mighty Amazon River. While he and his motley crew battle predators, pollution, rapids, and psychological distress, Strel flouts his failing health -- refueling on wine, whiskey, and car batteries. As tensions and blood pressure rise, the journey becomes a larger-than-life legend that is as strange and profound as Strel himself. Dark, humorous, and stunning, Big River Man is the surreal portrait of an extraordinary man who knows no limits.