A feature film documentary about the normalization of dehumanization by professional sport

Once a public example of grit, teamwork, and fair play, spectator sports in many cases have taken on aspects of the ancient gladiator dens of dehumanization, distraction, and rude behavior. Our national prioritization of revenue over values and the common good is quite evident in the world of pro-sports where objectification of players by owners and sportscasters is commonplace. Fans take out their work and life problems on atheletes as if they were stress balls. All this an more has become normalized and is largely ignored, and often exacerbated, by the media and the leagues.

Athletes are revered by gods when they win, hated on when they err, and disregarded like unwanted holiday gifts when they retire. They play through injury and pain, which does not fade like the spotlight. Physical and emotional challenges, complications getting another job or coping with difficult circumstances, and in many cases thoughts around, and cases of, premature death, await an astounding amount of our men.

Just part of the game? Think again. What happens to any person, especially those in the stadium, on TV, and in the public eye, has a profound effect on our society. Is it a coincidence that America faces massive challenges of violence, separation, and disillusionment? How much does pro sports have do to with where we are as a country? Much more than we think.