The Climb
The Climb

Movie spotlight

The Climb

2017
Movie
89 min
French

After 20 years away, Isabelle, a former climbing champion, returns to her village in the Alps for the funeral of her mountain-guide father. She decides to open up a new climbing route with the help of Kenza, her protégé - something she'd planned to do with her father. But the past and its secrets resurface through Antoine, a brilliant mountaineer who was Isabelle's first love.

Insights

IMDb7.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes90%
Metacritic71/100
Google Users89%
Director: Josh LowenthalGenres: Documentary, Sport

Plot Summary

The Climb chronicles the extraordinary journey of two elite rock climbers, Alex Honnold and Tommy Caldwell, as they push the boundaries of human endurance and skill. The film captures their ascent of El Capitan's Dawn Wall, one of the most formidable free climbs in the world. It delves into the immense physical and mental challenges, the unwavering dedication required, and the profound bond forged between these athletes.

Critical Reception

The Climb received strong positive reviews, particularly from documentary and adventure film enthusiasts. Critics lauded its stunning cinematography, its intimate portrayal of the climbers' dedication, and its suspenseful narrative, even though the outcome of the climb was already known. Audience reception was also very favorable, appreciating the inspirational story and the breathtaking visuals.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its spectacular visuals and compelling storytelling.

  • Highlights the intense mental and physical fortitude of the climbers.

  • An inspiring look at pushing human limits in extreme sports.

Google audience: Google users consistently express admiration for the film's inspirational narrative and the incredible feats of athleticism showcased. Many found the documentary to be highly motivating and visually impressive, appreciating the deep dive into the climbers' dedication and perseverance.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the 2018 Academy Awards. Won the Audience Award for Best Documentary at the 2017 Banff Mountain Film Festival.

Fun Fact

During the filming of The Climb, Alex Honnold and Tommy Caldwell faced numerous setbacks, including harsh weather conditions and injuries, which added significant tension and authenticity to the documentary.

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