I did not expect to like Wired to Win. Typically, I prefer my IMAX movies to be about fantastic civilizations or scary sharks. I have little to no interest in brain function, Baden Cook, or the Tour de France – or so I thought. Still, it was hubby’s birthday and therefore he ruled the day, so we headed on over to the Louisville Science Center to check out this film. And I loved it.

The Basics
The “plot” of Wired to Win is sandwiched between nostalgia-inducing clips of a young boy learning to ride a bicycle. The film’s thesis is that one’s brain continually evolves well into adulthood, and that even the most seemingly brainless physical endeavors would be impossible with corresponding thoughts, feelings, and involuntary reactions. Wired to Win explores the concept of the brain’s role in competition through the lens of the ultimate test of Endurance, the Tour de Force. Specifically, the film follows racers Baden Cook and Jimmy Casper of France’s elite FDJeux team throughout their preparation for and riding in the 2003 tour.

My Thoughts
Wired to Win is amazing on so many levels. For one thing, it teaches a great deal about the Tour de France, an event I previously knew very little about. Who knew there was a polka dot jersey? A map traces the race route in extremely accurate detail, complete with rest stops and train transport from one checkpoint to the next. The players featured are likeable and provide for some excellent eye candy. I found the aspects of this film regarding teamwork especially interesting. One well-shot series of takes shows the FDJeux team of riders slowly getting in better sync with each other over time, until they move as one unit. Focusing on individual stories – one of success, one of defeat – adds an emotional dimension to what could have been a very dry movie.

The segments of film dealing with science are, surprisingly, nearly as entertaining as those focusing on the riders. Wired to Win provides plenty of information about the human brain in clear, easily digestible portions. I learned which parts of the brain control various important functions. Apparently, important decisions are made at the front of the brain, behind the forehead. Visual effects and diagrams accompany verbal explanations, making tricky science concepts interesting and easy to understand.

The elements I’ve discussed so far would make Wired to Win a good National Geographic television special. However, this film’s amazing camera work takes full advantage of the IMAX medium. There are many, many beautiful shots in Wired to Win. The star of the show is the French countryside, as captured from above. These beautiful views made me wish I had made it out of the city during any of my three visits to France. I also loved the footage of crazed fans of various nationalities, all going absolutely wild for their racer of choice. Computer-generated, science related shots are equally well done. At a couple of points, I felt like I was actually moving around inside the brain. Some of these segments are so convincing they might even cause motion sickness in some.

Overall…
Wired to Win presents the Tour de France as a colorful, personality-filed event. This film manages to both educate and entertain at the same time. I went in kicking and screaming and came out smiling. Wired to Win is a truly fine IMAX movie and I strongly suggest giving it a shot if it comes to a museum/science center/theater near you.

*Given this film's subject matter and focus on the beautiful French countryside, I've chosen this review as my entry into ifif1938's Fabulous French and English Finds write-off!

Recommended: Yes