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Year Released 2008
Duration 92
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Salute
Editorial ReviewMovie Summary
Movie Genre:
Documentary
Rated:
PG
Director:
Matt Norman
Starring:
Christopher Kirby, Larry Questad, Peter Norman, Tommie Smith
Editorial Review
A white boy from Australia stood in second place on the winner's podium beside two Afro-American athletes who raised their fists in Black Power salutes, to highlight Civil Rights struggles. Their overt display of social criticism instantly became the most memorable moment of the 1968 Mexico Olympics, and produced an image which still resonates powerfully as one of sport's most political protests.
How Peter Norman became an indelible part of this moment - and who Norman actually was - is the mission of heartfelt doco Salute, made by Norman's nephew Matt. The family bond allowed Matt Norman to record lengthy interviews with his uncle (who passed away in late 2006) and the US athletes he stood by - Tommie Smith and John Carlos.
The three remained strong friends for the best part of the past 40 years, and they all prove strong talent for recounting history, telling a yarn, and respecting each other. These men are the core of Salute, with many others also called upon for their opinion of a landmark event.
Never less than engaging and worthwhile, Salute does leave you hanging when it comes to what happened after the Olympics stance. As Salute informs us, Norman's involvement extended far beyond just standing there - Carlos and Smith told him beforehand what they intended to do, and he backed them - and his being dropped from the 1972 Olympics team was surrounded by relationship disintegration and public/official ridicule. Carlos and Smith experienced similar, enormous repercussions for their global statement, but the impact of their decision feels brushed over compared to the rich detail elsewhere.
Despite this oversight, Salute still presents a terrific portrait of a humble, Christian sportsman whose belief in treating everyone equally overshadowed his own Olympic achievement.
Hilton Thomas
Tell us what you think
5 comments
Donna Fitzgerald: No doubt about it, the best film and best story ever told in this country. Beats all the dramas we've had. I absolutely loved this. Matt Norman, you have inspired me. 5/5 stars. (06 August 2008)
Damian Murray: Fantastic film. Definitely one of our great documentaries. I gave this film 5 Stars! I have seen it twice now as the first time I couldn't stop wiping the tears from my eyes and I thought I missed something. Second time I felt like it was the first time again. Well done! (02 August 2008)
Erica: This film is one of the best an Aussie has produced. Matt Norman should be so proud of his uncle. I'm very disapointed in those at Adelaide that aren't flocking to this film. I went last night to see the film and it was only 1/2 full. I urge everyone in SA to go see this film. Its an education in the good people and underdog coming out trumps. 5/5 from me. (21 July 2008)
Melinda Peterson: I agree. Best film I have seen. I enjoyed the journey on this more than batman. Five stars from me. (19 July 2008)
John Wallis: Best film i've seen out of Australia. We should be so proud of Peter Norman and also his nephew Matt Norman for standing up enough to tell this amazing story. Must see! I never knew about Peter Norman and his infectious wit. I wish I knew this while he was alive. Matt Norman should stand up to be applauded by all Australians. The music was also fantastic and the voice over perfect. A real belief in what he was saying through the narration. Matt has been able to capture a time when I was young and bring it to a new generation of Australians to soak in the 60's. 5/5 (18 July 2008)
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