In ‘One foot in front of the other’, four runners build their utopia on the road

The documentary 'One Foot in Front of the Other' delves into the profound bonds forged through extreme shared experiences, focusing on a 2018 run between Bengaluru and Chennai. Director Basav Biradar captures the 62-minute journey of four runners, Santosh, Chandra, Mani, and Krishan, as they traverse over 340 kilometers, gradually stripping away the perception of long-distance running as merely an endurance sport.

Santosh, a software techie who returned from the U.S., found a more fulfilling path in social work through running. Dissatisfied with the slow pace of change in traditional social work, he founded a running group in the late 2000s. His group, Runner's High, became an outlet for his desire to contribute positively to society, offering tangible results. Santosh meticulously plans the group's journey, managing pace, food, and ensuring the safety of all participants, particularly Chandra, the sole female runner.

Biradar's film adopts a raw, vlog-like style, allowing the subjects to remain natural and unselfconscious. The runners' banter and interactions suggest a deep comfort with the camera, indicating the filmmaker's unobtrusive presence. Each runner brings a unique perspective shaped by their life experiences. Krishan, who grew up during the 1980s insurgency in Punjab, moved to Bengaluru in 1998 and began training with Santosh. Chandra, originally from Kerala, discovered her passion for running at 45, winning her category at the Mumbai marathon. Now 60, she is the eldest and one of the most resilient members.

Mani, from Trichy, views running as a personal challenge but emphasizes the sense of community that repeatedly draws him back to Runner's High. Santosh actively challenges the myth of discipline and isolation often associated with endurance sports. He humorously dubs his group 'Jobless Lazy Boring Runners,' suggesting that dedication, rather than elite athleticism, is the key. "Anyone can do it, as long as they have the time," Santosh tells the camera, underscoring his inclusive philosophy.

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Anyone can do it, as long as they have the time