I just rewatched this movie for the first time since it came out, and I really really enjoyed it. I have to say that I HATED the book, I disliked how Krakauer made him seem like a hero and just was bored and annoyed by it (we read it in high school). So, I was pleasantly surprised by the movie the first time I saw it. I think Sean Penn (who wrote/directed it, randomly) did an excellent job of making it clear that this kid made bad decisions, but had a very strong sense of what he wanted for the right reasons.
The cinematography in this movie was what sold me. Better than I could in a written description, I understood the awe inspiring beauty that can come from camping wherever you please and living alone in the Alaskan wilderness. It even made the desert look alluring. The editing of the film, which spliced bits of Alex's time in Alaska against everything leading up to, kept the film grounded, reminding us where he ended up and why he tried to get there. And Bravo Emile Hirsch, you finally don't annoy me. You have used your cockiness in a constructive manner, I think this was the perfect role for you (though I bet he could be a good Peter Pan too, randomly).
Do I want to give away my money and become a leather tramp and meet crazy hippies? No definitely not, but I better understand why people see the glamour or the appeal in such a life. I do want to go hiking and look at trees though, so I think Penn made his point.
agreed. great movie.
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