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You're viewing the Frameline49 (2025) archive held in 2025. Explore this years festival

Row of Life

Directed by Soraya Simi2025USA82 mins

Former Marine, three-time Paralympian, fourteen-time Guinness World Record setter, and renowned ocean rower Angela Madsen is committed to her sport. By chronicling the year leading up to Madsen’s unsupported solo row from Los Angeles to Hawai’i, director Soraya Simi captures both the everyday beauty of a sapphic love story and an athlete’s fearless tenacity. Once Madsen embarks on her nearly 3,000-mile journey, however, Row of Life takes a harrowing turn when the film team and Angela’s wife, Debra Madsen, suddenly lose contact with the rower. 

Although the final chapter of Angela Madsen’s incredible true story is marked by tragedy, Row of Life is a testament to the transformative, affirming power of sports. Brought to the screen in part by TOGETHXR, a media company founded by Sue Bird, Alex Morgan, Chloe Kim, and Simone Manuel, Row of Life spotlights the remarkable life of an unsung gay athlete.

Expected Guests

James Newberry
Composer
Quick links
Sponsor
Director
Soraya Simi
Year
2025
Country
USA
Running Time
82 mins
Language
English
Cast/Participants
Angela Madsen, Debra Madsen, Miles Muzio
Section
Documentary Features
Program Note Writer
Kate Bove