Free Solo (2018)

Analysis of emotional growth in Free Solo documentaryReview of Free Solo climbing sequencesAlex Honnold and Sanni McCandless relationship in Free SoloFree Solo movie camera people ethical dilemmasPsychological motivations behind Alex Honnold's climbingElizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin's Free SoloFree Solo climbing without ropes detailsEmotional impact of Free Solo movieAlex Honnold climbing film analysisFree Solo documentary review
Written By Chris Shirley MA FRGS

Verdict: A gripping story that deep-dives into the complex world of climbing without ropes!

We’re somewhat divided about giving space to something so risky, however ‘Free Solo’, a documentary following climber Alex Honnold, through the world of climbing without ropes or fall protection, is too insightful into the human mind and risk appetite not to explore.

 

Honnold's personality is deeply focused and driven, yet it sharply contrasts with his minimalist lifestyle, living in a van and eating simple meals – he’s got dedication, that’s for sure!

 

Directed by Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, the film explores Honnold's seemingly irrational pursuit of climbing without ropes or harnesses, focusing more on the intensity of knowing someone like him rather than rationalising his extreme endeavours. It delves into the intense emotional impact his climbs have on those close to him, particularly his girlfriend, Sanni McCandless, highlighting the sheer agony experienced by individuals observing Honnold's climbs.

 

A visually staggering piece (as you would expect from Jimmy Chin), ‘Free Solo’ captures Honnold's attempt to free solo El Capitan, a 3,000-foot wall in Yosemite Valley. It prompts reflections on the psychological motivations behind his extraordinary feats, touching upon his comparison of mental intensity to that of a samurai. The documentary doesn't shy away from exploring the ethical dilemmas faced by the camera people filming Honnold's climb, pondering the potential witnessing of a catastrophe and its filming repercussions, adding a layer of suspense and ethical questioning to the narrative.

 

The film's gripping portrayal of Honnold's superhuman climbing abilities juxtaposed with his personal growth and emotional evolution, particularly regarding his relationship with McCandless, makes for a compelling story. Despite his mastery in climbing, Honnold's journey unveils a man grappling with emotional attachment and change, offering a nuanced view of his unconventional life choices and their impact on those around him. The documentary strikes a balance between showcasing these terrifying climbing sequences and delving into the complex psyche of a man dedicated to defying gravity.

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Free Solo (2018)
Free Solo (2018)

A visually staggering piece (as you would expect from Jimmy Chin), ‘Free Solo’ captures Honnold's attempt to free solo El Capitan, a 3,000-foot wall in Yosemite Valley. It prompts reflections on the psychological motivations behind his extraordinary feats, touching upon his comparison of mental intensity to that of a samurai. The documentary doesn't shy away from exploring the ethical dilemmas faced by the camera people filming Honnold's climb, pondering the potential witnessing of a catastrophe and its filming repercussions, adding a layer of suspense and ethical questioning to the narrative.

Chris Shirley MA FRGS

About the Author: Chris is the founder of Hiatus.Design, a website design and branding studio that works with brands all over the world, a former Royal Marines officer and former risk advisor to the BBC.

Chris has travelled in over 60 countries, is a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society (FRGS), a Guinness World Record holder for rowing over 3500 miles across the Atlantic Ocean, a Marathon des Sables finisher, and has worked with Hollywood actors, world–renowned musical artists and TV personalities!

https://www.hiatus.design
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