documentary: free solo
As I write this, this year’s unprecedented wildfire season have set over 3000 acres of Yosemite ablaze. Reviewing this film right now feels fitting and tragic.
Background:
If you haven’t watched Free Solo, you’ve probably heard of it referred to as the film about the guy who climbed Half Dome without ropes. That’s as much as I knew going into it anyway: awe-inspiring / death-defying / insane athleticism / rock climbing.
What struck me while watching after, however, was the simplicity of the narrative. As the accounts of those around him are pieced together, they simply recount what happened. No embellishment needed because it really was that superhuman.
Here’s the setup:
Intro to the man, the myth: Alex Honnold
Challenges arise
The climb. Though this story is completely more about the journey than the destination
Striking Scenes:
All of them? Is that an option? The shots are so gorgeous that you almost get used to it over the course of the 1 hour 40 minute runtime. Almost.
One of the (many) signature shots in all its glory
We really are tiny specks on this planet
Alex is one peculiar and insanely dedicated dude. Here he trains by hang boarding (pull ups by fingers!) in his van
I know this is just them in a canoe, but like to think it represents Sanni leading the way in their relationship and guiding Alex through new territory
One of those shots that make my palms sweaty just looking at it
Insane props to Jimmy Chin and crew. They’re all incredibly skilled climbers themselves and do not hold back
Imagine climbing these iconic peaks with $10K+ of camera equipment strapped to you
The B roll shots themselves are gorgeous
When you hear the crew speak it sounds like they’re all such supportive friends and
deserves the highest of all cinematography awards
Should you see it:
Yes. It’s one of my favorite documentaries right now, conveying so much through effortless narration and breathtaking shots of Yosemite.
YouTube should do some sort of partnership where 20% of every streaming rental goes towards park preservation or fire prevention efforts. Heard it here first.
Watch with:
Anyone who loves nature, the outdoors or is in need of their faith restored in the human spirit. AKA all of us right now.