"Slingshot" is an inspirational documentary chronicling inventor Dean Kamen's 15-year journey toward a sustainable water purification system. Kamen is probably best known for inventing the Segway, considered a bust by many, but as "Slingshot" brilliantly portrays, Kamen is much more than a fly-by-night inventor.
Heartland Film Festival is certainly best known for its plethora of inspirational stories. Without having even seen a majority of its 2014 festival campaign, I can assuredly state that "Slingshot" is one of the most awe-inspiring of the lot. My confidence in such a bold statement relies upon the universal quality of the documentary and its ability to inspire viewers on a singular level. To be striving to create change on a global scale is something that can inspire anyone and everyone, and Kamen's struggle is as honest and noble as it gets.
In spite of the lukewarm public reception to the Segway, Kamen remains rife with inspiration to change the world. His newest and most important work to date is nicknamed "Slingshot" and stands to revolutionize a bevy of third-world health concerns. A relatively simple device, "Slingshot" is more or less a black box that can filtrate even the most fetid water.
Without an efficient distribution channel, Kamen must turn to an unlikely source for help, contacting the Coca-Cola corporation. Having distributed Coke products to more countries than are admitted into the UN, the collaboration provides the utmost distribution possible.
The most exciting part of the documentary is the lack of distinct resolution. Despite Kamen's collaboration with Coca-Cola, "Slingshot" is still in the trial-run period and years away from possible mass distribution. Of course, the documentary leaves the viewer with a real sense of hope. Kamen's overall zest for life simply radiates positivity and proves to be an infectious mindset.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=scKFvylsVA4&w=560&h=315]