Make It to Munich is a 2025 sports documentary running 92 minutes, made in the United Kingdom and directed by Martyn Robertson. It follows the human and athletic journey of a young Scottish footballer, telling a story of resilience and determination connected to international football.
The film revolves around Ethan Walker, a promising athlete from Aberdeenshire on a football scholarship at a university in New York State. A few months after beginning his US experience, Ethan is involved in a serious road accident causing multiple fractures, two brain haemorrhages and complete dislocation of his right knee. The documentary then explores his complex physical and psychological recovery, supported by Professor Gordon Mackay, a pioneering surgeon and former Rangers footballer.
At the heart of the story is the project Ethan undertakes after rehabilitation: cycling, with Mackay, supporter Stephen Collie and director Martyn Robertson himself, the 1,200 kilometres from Glasgow to Munich to deliver the Scottish national team's official pennant for its Euro 2024 opening match against Germany. The journey becomes a sporting and human feat marked by effort, solidarity and team spirit, highlighting the athlete's willpower and ability to turn a traumatic event into personal motivation.
The film's message centres on commitment, resilience and the power of sport as a tool for rebirth. Through interviews, travel material and direct observation, the direction underscores the value of medical and human support, as well as the importance of sporting passion as a driver of personal growth.
Produced by Louise Storrie, with John Archer as executive producer for Hopscotch Films, Make It to Munich is neither a student project nor the director's first work. The film is an ideal continuation of Robertson's thematic interests, already evident in works such as Ride the Wave. Completed on 14 March 2025, the documentary closed the 2025 Glasgow Film Festival before beginning its festival and distribution run.
Film Information
Title: Make It to Munich
Original title: Make It to Munich
Direction: Martyn Robertson
Production: Louise Storrie, Hopscotch Films
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
Running time: 92 minutes
Genre: Documentary
Sport featured: Football
Main subject(s): Ethan Walker, Gordon Mackay, Stephen Collie, Martyn Robertson
Completion date: 14 March 2025
Premiere: Glasgow Film Festival 2025, Glasgow
Distributor: [Not specified]
Shooting format: Digital HD, colour
Director's first film: No
Student project: No