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96 Pounds of Dynamite

Play trailer 2:47 Poster for 96 Pounds of Dynamite 2026 1h 18m Documentary Biography Play Trailer Watchlist
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Tomatometer 2 Reviews Popcornmeter Fewer than 50 Ratings
When filmmaker Loren Goldfarb first notices Chad "Shorty" McDaniel in a Florida pool hall, he underestimates the man using the motorized wheelchair, until Chad starts winning. A lot. 96 Pounds of Dynamite follows Chad, a witty, fierce pool player born with brittle bone disease, as he battles low expectations, discrimination, and physical barriers on his journey from a rural Mississippi upbringing to high-stakes amateur tournaments out West. As Chad confronts personal loss and life-altering choices, the film presents an energetic, humorous, and deeply personal portrait of a man who, despite being told he wouldn't survive childhood, refuses to shrink his life, or his ambition.

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96 Pounds of Dynamite

Critics Reviews

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Christie Cronan Common Sense Media May 12
4/5
96 Pounds of Dynamite presents the story of a man who refuses to be defined by his disability or stereotypes about people with disabilities. Go to Full Review
Alise Chaffins MacGuffin or Meaning (Substack) May 12
4/5
Loren Goldfarb went in to watch Chad excel at billiards, only to create a film with a much broader, more expansive view of Chad as a son, a husband, and a man with a disability. Go to Full Review
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Audience Reviews

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Alan F @RT01599803 Jun 29 96 Pounds of Dynamite is a must see for anyone who thinks their life is challenging, difficult, or requiring more effort than they think necessary. Chad doesn't see himself as different, and that is exactly why he is. His attitude toward life should be bottled up and distributed to the masses. Mr. Goldfarb relayed this story in a thoughtful, caring, and respectful manner...something that is rare in today's moviemaking. It is not only heartfelt, but teaches us all a lesson of what is truly important in living a meaningful and purposeful life. I highly recommend this documentary to anyone who just wants a pick-me-up story to make them realize that there is truly good in the world very close to home (especially Melbourne, Florida). :) See more Mark W @MarkW-FL Jun 29 96 Pounds of Dynamite is an extraordinary piece of filmmaking from Loren Goldfarb and his team. The storytelling is genuine, uplifting, optimistic, and largely unexpected. I found myself totally immersed in Chad's journey, developing more and more respect and admiration for him as every minute of the documentary went by. A very worthwhile, must-see effort. See more Paul B @RT28669275 Jun 25 The producers did an excelent engaging me in a diverse story line. I was amazed at Chad's fortitude and sticking with his goals which began at an early age remain in focus, even today. I hope Chad's resolve takes him to the championship next year. I wish Loren and his team the most succes with this documentary. See more Jo S @RT41267290 Apr 30 Loved this film. While it shines a jarring light on Chad's obvious physical challenges in everyday life, it is also simply, a universal story of family dynamics, love, disappointment, and gratitude. I am in awe of this man's extraordinary and ordinary life. I walked away wanting to know even more, would love to see this film spun off into a series about him! As a Mom, I was moved by Chad's mom's love for her son and her fight for him to have a normal childhood and education. What an inspiration! See more Holly B @HollyB4UNoit Apr 29 Just when you think your life is difficult you find someone who has overcome so many obstacles. He is cheerful, smart, has a positive outlook, spreads joy and laughter wherever he goes. He's a perfect example of a disability not defining Who You Are. This film is uplifting and an inspiration for how to live one's life with purpose and passion. See more Read all reviews
96 Pounds of Dynamite

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Movie Info

Synopsis When filmmaker Loren Goldfarb first notices Chad "Shorty" McDaniel in a Florida pool hall, he underestimates the man using the motorized wheelchair, until Chad starts winning. A lot. 96 Pounds of Dynamite follows Chad, a witty, fierce pool player born with brittle bone disease, as he battles low expectations, discrimination, and physical barriers on his journey from a rural Mississippi upbringing to high-stakes amateur tournaments out West. As Chad confronts personal loss and life-altering choices, the film presents an energetic, humorous, and deeply personal portrait of a man who, despite being told he wouldn't survive childhood, refuses to shrink his life, or his ambition.
Director
Loren Goldfarb, Ed Coughlin
Producer
Loren Goldfarb
Distributor
Filmhub
Production Co
Illumastory Films II
Genre
Documentary, Biography
Original Language
English
Release Date (Streaming)
May 11, 2026
Runtime
1h 18m