This brilliant documentary follows the progress of the legendary Australian cyclist Phil Anderson in his quest for the winner's yellow jersey in the the 1983 Tour (won by Laurent Fignon). Hopes were high that he could achieve this following his fifth place in 1982, when he held the jersey for several days and took a stage victory. In 1981 he achieved worldwide fame when he became the first Australian to wear the maillot jaune in his very first Tour.

"23 Days in July is one of the best films ever made on the Tour de France."

"A hidden classic of Australian cinema ..."

His victory in the classic, Amsted Gold in the spring of 1983 was proof that he was a winner, and this marvelous film follows Phil in his attempt to win the sport's biggest prize. Anderson riding for the Peugeot team, discusses his training and strategy for winning the Tour, while veteran cycling journalists John Wilcockson ( Velo News) and Phil Ligget provide analysis and day-to-day coverage of the race.

Produced and directed by Tim Sullivan.

Tim Sullivan spent most of his career in the Australian film industry and made over 200 films, but it was his documentary on the Tour de France that was perhaps his best known work.

DVD Extras :
Phil Anderson interviewed by Phil Ligget, Spring 1983
Gerrie Knetemann's famous Amsted Gold win 1985
Photo montage
108 mins