Educational Media Reviews Online

Born on Native American territory in Oklahoma; a descendant of the last great Sac and Fox chief, Black Hawk—his Indian name, Wa-tho-huck or “Bright Path”—something Jim Thorpe certainly lived up to in a time of hardship and stigmas for Native Americans. Thorpe’s athletic career began at the Carlisle Industrial Indian School where he played football and ran track. His natural athletic abilities are what legends are made of, no matter the sport, he excelled at it. In the 1912 Summer Olympics, Thorpe went on to win gold medals in the decathlon and pentathlon; which were later recalled due to his questionable amateur athlete status, but reinstated after his death. In a 2000 poll conducted by ABC Sports, Jim Thorpe was voted the Greatest Athlete of the Twentieth Century, beating out other greats such as Muhammed Ali and Babe Ruth.

Jim Thorpe was more than a legendary and accomplished athlete; he worked as an extra in the movie industry, travelled as a motivational speaker, and fought tirelessly as an activist for Native American rights and self-sufficiency. During WWII, in 1945, he even enlisted as a merchant marine.

The producers use reenactments, film footage, photographs, and stills, along with interviews from family members and friends to piece together the fascinating story of Jim Thorpe. The DVD contains a 60 minute classroom version and a full-length feature. A comprehensive discussion guide is provided on the film’s site, as well as on the DVD.