GLEASON Documentary Tackles Former NFL Player’s Life with ALS

GLEASON a documentary capturing the first five years of former New Orleans Saint defensive back Steve Gleason who, at the age of 34, was diagnosed with ALS. Filmmaker Clay Tweel discusses Steve’s life and ALS technology today. Tweel also breaks down the relationships and bonds forged between filmmakers and their subjects in this Sundance edition of BYOD hosted by Ondi Timoner.

Guest Bio

At the age of 34, Steve Gleason, former NFL defensive back and New Orleans hero, was diagnosed with ALS. Doctors gave him two to five years to live. And that’s what Steve chose to do: LIVE. So when Steve and his wife, Michel, learned they would soon have a baby, he began recording video journals of their life and love – a time capsule his unborn son, Rivers, could watch in the future.This intimate project has evolved into a feature-length documentary film – with honest, breathtaking video shot over 5 years. It’s about Gleason’s strength as an activist, but more importantly, as a husband and father. It’s ugly. It’s beautiful. It’s frustrating. It’s hopeful. It’s a lot like life.

Clay Tweel is an award winning documentary filmmaker whose previous films include Make Believe, Print the Legend, and the 2015 Sundance Film Festival selection Finders Keepers. After meeting Steve Gleason two years ago, Tweel knew immediately that he had to be involved in telling this very personal and inspirational story.