By Virginia Schneider
Los Angeles, CA, (The Hollywood Times) 3/1/25 – Every once in a while, a magnificent story comes along and lights up audiences with its incredible message of resilience and power. A story so encouraging it makes one determined to overcome anything. Such is the inspirational documentary short, No Leg Power. Written and produced by Reign Burton, directed by Tristan Anthony Ortiz, with director of photography and editor Gage Eggleston, No Leg Power tells the true story of CJ Bellamy.
Bellamy seems like an athlete savant. From as early as six years of age, CJ is winning awards, becoming a champion athlete—in baseball, and in football and then in his number one love, basketball. Then in a freak twist of fate, CJ is in the wrong place at the wrong time and suffers a bullet injury in his spine rendering him paralyzed from the waist down. Having to turn down the multiple scholarships and offers piling at his feet, he faces two choices—give in to depression and defeat or, become “Bellamy Strong.”
Guess which CJ chooses? This remarkable documentary shows us CJ’s life before and after his injury. We hear from family and loved ones, see the countless awards he won in the past and how he continues to win today. He heads the organization “No Leg Power” which trains athletes like himself, in cross fitness training. We see CJ working out and cheering on his teammates as he takes his organization to the public and encourages everyone that a person is an athlete based on their grit and determination, not on how their body functions. “No Leg Power” aims to help athletes without use of their legs to compete in cross fitness and other sports.
DP Eggleston captures moments in wonderful close ups, dramatic shadows and impactful footage. Reign writes a lean yet profound story that is without drama or fluff, just sincere and honest, like CJ himself. Ortiz finds imagery that speaks volumes and gives us insight into the strength and courage of this true hero.
This is a terrific short that leaves the audience encouraged, realizing through CJ’s excellent example that everything is possible. Hopefully many teens and students will have the opportunity to watch this film. It deserves wide distribution because this man and his mission are so important. Whether an athlete or not, anyone with a debilitating injury can be encouraged by this remarkable film. Kudos!
