Into the Wild (2007), starring Emile Hirsch and directed by Sean Penn is a breathtaking cinematic experience. The book, I’m sure, is excellent, but the film is an impressive display of the American country and the struggles that one young man goes through in exploring the land and leaving his family and friends behind.
Alex Supertramp, our star, finished college to please his parents, donated his life savings (and college fund) to charity, read up on survival in the wild, and eventually made the trek to the Alaskan wilderness, where he lived for many months.
Because so much of the film is set in the wilderness, the dialogue is limited, and the plot is driven by narration, mainly from Supertramp’s little sister, played by Jena Malone. Her insights into her brother’s mental and emotional struggles lend a guiding hand through what could otherwise have been slow moments, cinematically speaking.
Additional highlights include a small role from Vince Vaughn and a beautiful soundtrack by Eddie Vedder (of Pearl Jam fame).
It’s not short, or light, but I think the investment of two hours is worth it for this film, even if you already know how it ends.
-Emily Mortara
For more NYFWC features, profiles, sports talk, film and music recommendations, follow Not Your Father’s Water Cooler on Twiitter @NYFWC
