I’ve never swum there myself but every time I get down to Bondi Beach in Sydney, I take a look at the famous Icebergs pool.  With the Pacific Ocean as the backdrop and the pool filled with fresh saltwater, it’s described as “the most photographed swimming pool in the world.”  Once you’ve been there in person, it’s easy to see why.  The swimming club was founded in 1929 and the iconic spot will soon celebrate its centennial.

Directed by documentary filmmaker Ian Darling (The Final Quarter, The Oasis), The Pool is a motivational, uplifting film that takes us inside the world of the Bondi Icebergs.  We meet the swimmers, varying widely in age, for whom it is an intricate part of their life.  Some swim socially on a regular basis with friends… while others train hard and seek competitive glory.  We also observe the hard-working staff – from the administrators and cleaners through to the lifesavers and trainers.  It’s a pretty cool place to work!

It may not sound like riveting cinema (a doco about a swimming pool???) but Darling is to be commended for finding so many interesting people to film and interview.  They all have great backstories.  I couldn’t help but smile as I listened to them talk about how much the Icebergs means to them.  With so much tragedy in the world (the subject of many other documentaries), it’s nice to be reminded of life’s positives – beautiful views, great friends, and outdoor exercise (amongst others).

Darling doesn’t want the film to be just an interview-fest and so there are times when he dispenses with dialogue and just lets the sights and sounds do the talking.  We watch excited swimmers go about their day while listening to waves crashing against the shoreline, seagulls squawking above, and storms rolling in.  If this doesn’t generate the inspiration to travel to Sydney and swim there (well, maybe not in winter), you’re a tough person to please.

Shot over 100 days, with the crew getting wet themselves, The Pool captures the essence of Australian people and culture and showcases it to the world.