The weekend is here, and with it comes a plethora of streaming options to keep you entertained. From thought-provoking documentaries to classic sci-fi and thrilling movies, there's something for every taste. But amidst the sea of choices, one documentary in particular stands out: 'Deep End: The Scott Miller Story'.
This two-part documentary delves into the life of former Olympic swimmer Scott Miller, who, after winning a silver medal at the 1984 Olympics, found himself entangled in a web of drug use, mental health issues, and criminal activities. What makes this documentary particularly compelling is its raw and honest portrayal of Miller's journey. We see him candidly recounting his past mistakes and his struggle to find redemption. It's a shocking story, but one that serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of fame and the importance of purpose.
One thing that immediately stands out is the documentary's limitation: it was made with Miller's full cooperation. While this allows us to hear his side of the story, it also means that some aspects of his life feel glossed over. His high-profile romance with Charlotte Dawson and his relationship with his son's mother are left largely superficial. But what truly hits home is the brutal emotional toll of post-fame athletic life. Stripped of the rigorous structure of daily training and the high of chasing a win, Miller spiraled into a dark place. Today, he speaks to schoolkids about drug abuse, crediting prison as the only thing that kept him from drowning in addiction.
This raises a deeper question: what happens to athletes when they retire? The documentary suggests that the singular sporting focus of the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) in its early days may have been great at developing champions, but not necessarily at developing well-rounded individuals. Miller's story is a heartbreakingly familiar one, and it prompts us to reconsider the role of sports institutions in nurturing not just athletes, but also humans.
Speaking of institutions, let's shift gears to the world of television. The cancellation of this year's Christmas special and an indefinite hiatus for 'Doctor Who' is a blow to Whovians everywhere. But fear not, as the entire old-school catalogue of 26 seasons, one movie, and eight Doctors is now available on Britbox. From the original 1963 Doctor, William Hartnell, to the beloved Tom Baker, there's plenty of time travel and alien encounters to keep you entertained.
Now, let's talk about football. Former English footballer Gary Lineker has set up shop in New York City for the duration of this year's World Cup, offering a daily recap of the big matches and all the latest news. With his podcast co-hosts Alan Shearer and Micah Richards, as well as a roster of guests including ex-champions and celebs, the action is mostly viewed through an English lens. But fans of the Premier League and the world game will appreciate the top-notch analysis, even if the banter gets a bit blokey at times.
Speaking of analysis, let's shift gears to a different kind of mystery. The fate of the Mary Celeste has defied explanation ever since the American ship was found deserted in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean in 1872. Experts and academics discuss the plausibility of various theories, before a couple of boffins dream up an experiment that seems to have put the mystery to rest after more than 150 years. It's a fascinating exploration of historical mysteries and the power of scientific inquiry.
Finally, let's talk about 'Hoppers', a delightful science-fiction comedy that shows Pixar still has the goods that made it the gold standard for animated movies. Disney star Piper Curda voices Mabel, an animal-loving university student who uses trailblazing technology to hop her consciousness into a robot beaver. A stacked cast, including Bobby Moynihan, Jon Hamm, Dave Franco, and Meryl Streep, voices the animals she connects with while trying to save their habitat from greedy developers. It's basically 'Avatar' for kids, but done with such charm and fun that you can forgive the obvious parallels.
In conclusion, the weekend streaming options are diverse and engaging. From thought-provoking documentaries to classic sci-fi and thrilling movies, there's something for every taste. But amidst the sea of choices, 'Deep End: The Scott Miller Story' stands out as a powerful reminder of the fragility of fame and the importance of purpose. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy the show.
