Trail Running Film Festival Review | Fiery Embers Guest: Brick Marlin
At Run Tri Bike, we know endurance sports aren’t just about heart rate zones and negative splits. That’s why Fiery Embers, the podcast hosted by Jason Bahamundi, offers something refreshingly different: laughter, absurdity, and a reminder of why we fell in love with sport in the first place.
In a recent episode, Jason chats with trail running enthusiast and author Brick Marlin to review the magic of the Trail Running Film Festival. But this isn’t your standard film critique. It’s a feel-good, sometimes hilarious, sometimes emotional, celebration of storytelling, community, and what it really means to move through the world on two feet.
Elite Heart: From Doubt to Determination
The conversation kicks off with a breakdown of Elite Heart, which follows Callie Vinson’s courageous journey to the Western States 100. The film is a raw portrayal of self-doubt, perseverance, and support especially her mom’s presence as her biggest cheerleader.
Brick and Jason reflect on how the film resonates far beyond the race itself. It is about becoming someone stronger than you believed possible. A story many endurance athletes know well.
Point Pessy: Find Your Own Path
Next, they move to the Dolomites with Point Pessy, where a French-speaking female athlete attempts a Fastest Known Time (FKT). The subtitles don’t slow down the impact of the film’s core message: don’t run to meet others’ expectations run for yourself.
The stunning scenery, combined with powerful solo effort, left both Jason and Brick inspired. It’s a reminder that strength is universal, and language can’t contain heart.
Our Terrain: Tornadoes, Toughness, and Triumph
Just when you think you’ve seen it all, Our Terrain brings the drama. A 100-mile race in St. Louis is interrupted by a tornado warning, forcing a pause in the race without an extension of the cutoff.
The highlight? A 60-year-old runner named Chuck finishing the race (and winning) on his birthday. Jason and Brick agree: this is the kind of story that defines the spirit of ultra-running which encompasses community, grit, and joy.
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Talk to Frank: A Dog’s Eye View
If you need comic relief, Talk to Frank has you covered. Told from a dog’s perspective, the film dives into the quirks of trail life. Mud puddles, leash tangles, and undying loyalty.
Brick and Jason share genuine belly laughs recounting the film’s clever narration and heartfelt message. It’s a hilarious reminder of the bond between humans and their trail-loving pups.
We Are Here, We Run Long: Inclusion in Motion
In just eight minutes, We Are Here, We Run Long makes a lasting impact. Featuring athletes Rebecca, Kelsey, Ayako, and Alissa, the film highlights the beauty of connection, belonging, and showing up just as you are.
Brick calls this one of the most powerful stories in the lineup, and Jason agrees. He says that it’s more than a film, it’s a movement.
Halfway to Crazy: Strength in Stepping Back
The final film, Halfway to Crazy, follows ultra legend Candice Burt as she attempts an FKT on the Arizona Trail. Battling injury and soaring heat, Candice ultimately makes the courageous decision to pull out.
Jason and Brick admire her vulnerability and resilience because sometimes, true strength is knowing when to stop.
Why This Episode Matters
What makes this Fiery Embers episode stand out isn’t just the films. This Trail Running Film Festival review brings joy, laughter, and honest conversation. In a sport often obsessed with numbers, they remind us that storytelling, community, and even absurdity belong in endurance too.
So whether you’re running your first 5K or your tenth 100-miler, this conversation offers a warm, funny, and inspiring look into what makes trail running unforgettable.
Join the Conversation
🎥 Seen any of these films? Head to Instagram and tell us which one moved you most.
🐶 Is your dog your trail partner like Frank? We want to hear about it!
😂 And don’t forget—endurance doesn’t always have to be serious. Sometimes, it’s just seriously fun.
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