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Fighting MSA: Austin Crawford’s Story

Synopsis

Diagnosed with a terminal neurological disease that is so rare there’s no treatment or cure. This informative and heartwarming documentary is filled with emotion from beginning to end. Follow the journey of how Austin Crawford learns that hope still exists.

Review

4/5
An endearing documentary of endurance amid a medical setback.
Directed by Phil Gioja, ‘Fighting MSA: Austin Crawford’s Story’ is a short semi-biographical documentary film that presents the awe-inspiring perseverance of a man suffering from Multiple System Atrophy (MSA). Throughout the 15-minute runtime, viewers are guaranteed to absorb Crawford’s steely determination, charm and life-embracing attitude – an enthusiasm that would rival most of us. Set in Milford, Illinois, the documentary exhibits the benevolence of Crawford’s local community – as well the abiding support from his family and friends.

In spite of Austin’s life-limiting set back, his endearing character and psyche doesn’t shy away from flourishing. The audience can also expect a layman’s-terms education about his condition. MSA is a rare condition of the nervous system that causes gradual damage to nerve cells in the brain. This affects balance and movement which controls several basic functions – breathing and digestion. Irrespective of Crawford’s medical circumstance, his positive outlook and life passions – an avid motorcyclist – exhilarates every fiber of his being.

Phil Gioja’s technical craftsmanship and subject matter calls for applause and admiration. The film intentionally breaks-free from the pity-party normality of similar subject matters, and adopts an optimistic approach that is certain to connect, intrigue and inspire. Sound, post-production and cinematography are of a professional standard that will ensure engagement throughout. Highly recommended viewing.

Fighting MSA Short Film

Cast/Crew

Director(s): Phil Gioja
Writer(s): Phil Gioja
Cast: Austin Crawford
Producer(s): Phil Gioja
Director of Photography:
Animation (if applicable):

Specifications

Genre:
Collections:
Country:
Language: English
Year: 2020
Runtime: 15 min

Recommended

Cast/Crew

Director(s): Phil Gioja
Writer(s): Phil Gioja
Cast: Austin Crawford
Producer(s): Phil Gioja
Director of Photography:
Animation (if applicable):

Specifcations

Genre:
Collections:
Country:
Language: English
Year: 2020
Runtime: 15 min

Recommended

Fighting MSA: Austin Crawford’s Story

Synopsis

Diagnosed with a terminal neurological disease that is so rare there’s no treatment or cure. This informative and heartwarming documentary is filled with emotion from beginning to end. Follow the journey of how Austin Crawford learns that hope still exists.

Review

An endearing documentary of endurance amid a medical setback.

4/5
Directed by Phil Gioja, ‘Fighting MSA: Austin Crawford’s Story’ is a short semi-biographical documentary film that presents the awe-inspiring perseverance of a man suffering from Multiple System Atrophy (MSA). Throughout the 15-minute runtime, viewers are guaranteed to absorb Crawford’s steely determination, charm and life-embracing attitude – an enthusiasm that would rival most of us. Set in Milford, Illinois, the documentary exhibits the benevolence of Crawford’s local community – as well the abiding support from his family and friends.

In spite of Austin’s life-limiting set back, his endearing character and psyche doesn’t shy away from flourishing. The audience can also expect a layman’s-terms education about his condition. MSA is a rare condition of the nervous system that causes gradual damage to nerve cells in the brain. This affects balance and movement which controls several basic functions – breathing and digestion. Irrespective of Crawford’s medical circumstance, his positive outlook and life passions – an avid motorcyclist – exhilarates every fiber of his being.

Phil Gioja’s technical craftsmanship and subject matter calls for applause and admiration. The film intentionally breaks-free from the pity-party normality of similar subject matters, and adopts an optimistic approach that is certain to connect, intrigue and inspire. Sound, post-production and cinematography are of a professional standard that will ensure engagement throughout. Highly recommended viewing.

Fighting MSA Short Film

Recommended