Out To Win will interest its audience, and perhaps even provoke awareness. It’s a fascinating documentary which scrutinises the intersecting, conflicting, and mutually revealing powers of prejudice and sport. As an educational tool, the film buzzes with energy and purpose.

The soul of the film stems from elsewhere; each interviewee’s undeniable passion, knowledge and honesty makes Out To Win a personal, impactful, and, at times, heart-breaking watch.

Unfortunately, as the film draws to an end, the desire to include as many accounts as possible distorts the length, structure, and style, while simultaneously diluting its initial tonal authenticity.

Burdened with scope and significance, Out To Win bypasses several potential endings before its final close. Nonetheless, this is an intimate, insightful and enriching documentary told with compassion and resolve.

RATING: 3/5

INFORMATION

CAST: David Kopay, Billie Jean King, Martina Navratilova, John Amaechi, Billy Bean, Wade Davis, Jason Collins, Brittney Griner, Charline Labonté, Conner Mertens

DIRECTOR: Malcolm Ingram

SYNOPSIS: Inspired by American footballer Michael Sam’s coming out prior to the 2014 NFL draft,Out To Win examines the complicated and multifaceted lives and careers of professional and aspiring gay and lesbian athletes, and the people who work alongside them.

BFI Flare festival continues until this Sunday (29/03/2015). Tickets are still available from www.bfi.org.uk/flare.