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Into
the Wild is the true story of Christopher
McCandless, a young man who - in an attempt to rid himself of the
bureaucracy and materialism of modern society - looked to living
in the harsh serenity of the Alaskan wilderness. The film begins
with a bearded and weary Christopher in Alaska after two years on
the road. It then flashes back to the day of his college graduation,
where his inability to fit in with society shows itself when he
reacts angrily to his parents (Marcia Gay Harden and William Hurt)
buying him a new car. Deciding to act upon his ambitions, Christopher
gives all of his money to charity, destroys his credit cards, and
makes way on a new life's journey to Alaska whilst taking on the
pseudo name Alexander Supertramp. Along the way he meets various
tramps and dwellers.
Into the Wild was a passionate project for writer/director
Sean Penn who spent 10 years developing the film, creating an astonishing
piece of cinema in the process which is sure to elevate Penn's status
as a director of the highest regard. Penn does an exceptional job
adapting Jon Krakauer's book to the big screen while not falling
into the trap of portraying McCandless as a messiah or glamorizing
his vagabond lifestyle.
Cinematographer Eric Gautier's beautifully shot scenery of snow
covered mountains, lush green forests, and sun dried deserts showcases
the captivating appeal nature had on McCandless. Yet to counterbalance
this, Penn drives home the fact that around every corner awaits
danger whether natural or manmade, and unless you are prepared for
it, your fate will be sealed. McCandless' death is a clear example
of this. Even though he was a highly intelligent, insightful and
resourceful young man, he was also steadfastly stubborn and had
an air of pretentiousness about him which led him to make decisions
that would cost him. The fact that he did not stock a map whilst
in the wilderness clearly showed a disregard for safety, brought
on by a stubborn indifference for the rules. If only he would have
let go of his self imposed intelligent and moral superiority, than
perhaps he would be alive to tell his own tale.
Portraying McCandless is rising young actor Emile Hirsch, who under
the tutelage of Sean Penn (one of the world's premier actors) provides
a breathtaking performance, vigorously meeting the physical and
emotional demands placed upon him. Strong support comes from Catherine
Keener, Vince Vaughn, William Hurt, Marcia Gay Harden, and a heart
breaking turn by Hal Holbrook.
An uplifting and enriching cautionary tale about one man's spiritual
adventure on the road and in the wilderness, whose life and death
has left and undeniable impression upon this viewer.
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