The Alpinist [Blu-ray] [2021]

Description

As the sport of climbing turns from a niche pursuit to mainstream media event, Marc-André Leclerc climbs alone, far from the limelight. On remote alpine faces, the free-spirited 23-year-old makes some of the boldest solo ascents in history. Yet, he draws scant attention. With no cameras, no rope, and no margin for error, Marc-André’s approach is the essence of solo adventure. Intrigued by these quiet accomplishments, veteran filmmaker Peter Mortimer (The Dawn Wall) sets out to make a film about Marc-André. But the Canadian soloist is an elusive subject: nomadic and publicity shy, he doesn’t own a phone or car, and is reluctant to let the film crew in on his pure vision of climbing. As Peter struggles to keep up, Marc-Andrés climbs grow bigger and more daring. Elite climbers are amazed by his accomplishments, while others worry that he is risking too much. Then, Marc-André embarks on a historic adventure in Patagonia that will redefine what is possible in solo climbing. THE ALPINIST is an intimate documentary of a visionary climber who follows the path of his own passion, despite the heaviest of possible consequences. Review: The Alpinist Is The Story Of Manifesting Dreams - The comparisons to "Free Solo" and "The Alpinist" are fair but they're actually worlds apart. Marc-André Leclerc is in a class of his own and it's not a single peak he's after, it's the peaks that have yet to be conquered. Marc-André is shrouded in mystery but in his initial on screen interviews he comes across as a respectable young man. The parallels with Alex Honnold from "Free Solo" are evident. Both suffer from social issues and ADHD, surely there's something more to this than coincidence but the documentary doesn't go further. Marc-André is more focused than Alex in many ways. He has a very calming nature about him that is disarming and peaceful so as a viewer, I really wanted to go along with him. In "Free Solo" I wasn't a fan of the subject's personality or his clingy girlfriend... something Marc-André also shares. Marc-André's girlfriend Brett, is a true partner as she climbs step by step with him on some thrilling climbs which was impressive. As the film goes on I also felt somewhat like a partner, taking steps with Marc-André. The peaks he's climbing are just breathtaking...and frightening. He prefers to climb solo, so much so that even the presence of a camera would negate his accomplishments. The film's climax is a peak located at the bottom tip of Argentina. Marc-André's first attempt was wisely abandoned. Yet, he decided to go again during a weather break and... I'll leave my review right there. No spoilers here. Very engrossing film and makes one look back at their own life's accomplishments. Highest recommendation. Review: Does not work! - This DVD was unable to be played on any of the DVD players we had. Unfortunately, we didn't know this until this Christmas.