‘Perfect Road’ Is a Doc That Follows a Nomadic Cyclist Pursuing Grueling Challenges and Freedom

Maximilian Schnell left his job and life in Paris to travel by bicycle, taking on demanding physical and mental challenges. The documentary *Perfect Road*, by Danish brothers Adam and Christian Bonke, follows him across some of Europe’s highest mountain passes while exploring his search for freedom, his relationship with his partner Nina and the choices shaping his life.

Schnell planned the challenge for seven or eight months, possibly a year, and insisted the filmmakers work around his schedule without staging scenes or helping him. The Bonkes and cinematographer Jonatan Mose spent three months following the expedition in a campervan, using Schnell’s detailed route plans to anticipate where he would be, despite weather delays. After premiering at the Zurich Film Festival, the film screened at the 70th BFI London Film Festival.