Slaying the Badger 2014
"An American Contender. A French Legend."
Directed by John Dower, *Slaying the Badger (2014)* dives into one of cycling's most dramatic chapters: the 1986 Tour de France.
Director: John Dower
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Slaying the Badger (2014) about?
*Slaying the Badger* revisits the 1986 Tour de France, where American cyclist Greg LeMond faced off against his teammate and mentor, Bernard Hinault. What began as a promise of support spiraled into a fierce competition, testing their friendship and reshaping cycling history.
Who directed Slaying the Badger?
The documentary was directed by John Dower, who brings a keen eye for sports drama and historic rivalries to the film.
Who stars in Slaying the Badger?
The film features Greg LeMond, Bernard Hinault, Paul Köchli, Kathy LeMond, and Phil Liggett among its key figures.
Is Slaying the Badger (2014) worth watching?
For cycling fans and sports documentary lovers, *Slaying the Badger* is a must-watch. It delivers a compelling, behind-the-scenes look at one of the sport's most legendary rivalries, blending drama with historic significance.
How long is Slaying the Badger?
The film runs for 77 minutes, offering a concise yet immersive experience.
About Slaying the Badger (2014) — The real story behind the 1986 Tour de France rivalry
Directed by John Dower, *Slaying the Badger (2014)* dives into one of cycling's most dramatic chapters: the 1986 Tour de France. This gripping documentary revisits the fierce rivalry between American cyclist Greg LeMond and French legend Bernard Hinault, known as "The Badger" for his ruthless competitiveness. The film explores their complex bond—part mentor-mentee, part bitter rivals—as LeMond recounts how Hinault's promise to support his first Tour victory turned into a battle of wills. With stunning archival footage and candid interviews, it captures the grit, strategy, and emotional intensity of a race where loyalty and ambition collide.
At its core, *Slaying the Badger* is a story of sportsmanship tested by friendship and ambition. The documentary immerses viewers in the grueling world of professional cycling, where physical endurance meets psychological warfare. Through LeMond's perspective, the film examines themes of rivalry, sacrifice, and the blurred line between sportsmanship and ruthlessness, all set against the backdrop of cycling's golden era.