Review of Heart of a Dragon (2008) by Tara C — 30 Oct 2010

Local Blues legend/actor Jim Byrnes plays Ivan, a cynical journalist searching for the reasons why Rick Hansen ( played by Victor Webster best known for "Days of Our Lives" and "Melrose Place") is driven to wheel himself on the Great Wall of China.

Ivan butts heads with the members of Rick's crew consisting of best friend, Don, his phyisotheripist and love interest, Amanda and cousin Lee, the party animal. Each team member is also searching within themselves for the reasons why they are going to such lengths for Rick.

In China the team is embraced by the people and are welcomed as heroes. Ivan thinks Rick is just in this for the glory. Rick is in it because he wants people to look beyond his disability and see ability.

The movie is slow in parts and really doesn't get to the points of the Man in Motion World tour until the last 1/4. but once up on the wall you will be pushing yourself along with Rick on this emotional and physically taxing journey.

The film blends archival footage from Rick's time in China with scenes actually shot and recreated on the Great Wall.