A few years ago I got into indoor rock climbing. I’ve had so much fun with it–the puzzle of where to move next, the feeling of getting a little stronger every time, and the support provided by the people around you. It’s great.
There are a few documentaries about rock climbing, and I haven’t actually seen the most famous one, Free Solo. But this past weekend I watched The Dawn Wall on Netflix, and it absolutely blew me away. I won’t spoil anything below, but in case you don’t want to read more, I highly recommend this film, whether or not you’re into rock climbing.
The Dawn Wall follows Tommy Caldwell as he attempts to climb a very tall, very sheer cliff face in Yosemite called El Capitan. That by itself would intrigue me, but the movie is so much more than that. There are so many little surprises, twists, and turns along the way, well before Tommy even starts the long ascent. There’s danger, love, and something I can’t even hint at without spoiling it.
Then there are all the things that happen once Tommy and his climbing partner are on the wall. Again, no spoilers, but there are some decisions made on the wall that will forever inspire me.
If you’re looking for a movie this weekend, check out The Dawn Wall on Netflix. If you’re not into documentaries, I assure you that this is a truly cinematic experience.
Have you seen The Dawn Wall? What’s the last documentary that thrilled you?
There is another documentary “Alone on the Wall”. It is about Honnold’s free solo on Half Dome. I haven’t watched it, but I’ve red a book of the same name, and the book looks like a prequel to “Free Solo”.
Oh you have watch Free Solo next! You’ll be holding your breath for half the movie.
I agree with Chrissa. As a climber, you should definitely watch Free Solo – not only was I on the edge of my seat many times, but it gave insight into a life I know I could never pursue. There’s another aspect to the movie that was fascinating to watch, as I’ve seen it in fictional characters but never before in a real person–I believe it’d be a spoiler to go into more detail though!
I’ll have to check out “The Dawn Wall” too!