Scream of Stone
Scream of Stone

Movie spotlight

Scream of Stone

1991
Movie
105 min
English

A meeting of two world famous climbers, one an experienced mountaineer the other a sport climber, and a journalist (Ivan) results in a bet on which of the two is the best climber. Roger (the mountaineering expert) states that Martin (the sport climber) wouldn't survive a day on a 'real' climbing expedition, although he is considered to be the world's best sport climber (having just won an indoor 'world championship,' an event depicted in the opening scene). They plan to climb 'Cerro Torre,' in the Patagonia region of South America, near the Argentinian/Chilean border, one of the world's most difficult mountains, especially considering the extreme weather conditions common to the area.

Insights

IMDb6.7/10
Director: Werner HerzogGenres: Documentary, Adventure, Sport

Plot Summary

This documentary chronicles the ambitious and dangerous attempt by two women, Nanette Blanpain and Elsa Christensen, to climb the sheer granite walls of Cerro Torre in Patagonia. The film captures their physical and mental struggles against the unforgiving elements and the formidable mountain itself. It explores the human drive for extreme challenges and the profound connection between climbers and the wild.

Critical Reception

Scream of Stone received critical acclaim for its breathtaking cinematography and its raw portrayal of extreme mountaineering. Critics lauded Werner Herzog's ability to capture the intensity of the climb and the psychological toll it took on the climbers, though some found the narrative pacing occasionally slow. Audiences were captivated by the visual spectacle and the human drama.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its stunning visuals of Patagonia and the sheer grandeur of Cerro Torre.

  • Hailed for its intense portrayal of the physical and psychological challenges of extreme mountaineering.

  • Some noted the film's deliberate pacing, which at times emphasized the arduous nature of the climb.

Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the film's visually spectacular depiction of one of the world's most challenging mountains and the intense struggle of the climbers. Many found the documentary to be an awe-inspiring, albeit harrowing, watch that effectively conveys the spirit of adventure and perseverance.

Fun Fact

Werner Herzog famously stated that he would rather climb Cerro Torre himself than watch someone else do it, reflecting his deep respect and fascination for the mountain and the challenge it presents.

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