True life story of a man stuck between a rock and a hard place tells of an appreciation of life while in the throes of death.

While some simply refer to it as ‘that film where that guy cuts his am off”, 127 Hours is much more than some gimmick movie, with a visual and emotional power felt in every mesmerizing, gruelling frame.

Directed by Danny Boyle, this film is yet another example of how his Catholic upbringing fuels the spiritual and moral contexts in his work.

Just like Martin Scorsese before him, Boyle (now an avowed atheist) was set for the priesthood, yet found his vocation in movies instead. Yet once a Catholic always a Catholic, and throughout his filmography is one message: Choose Life (to steal from his Trainspotting).

Life is exactly what is on display in 127 Hours, based on the true life survival tale of Aron Ralston, who while hiking in the Blue John Canyon in Utah, found himself in a predicament when his arm was pinned against a rock face by an immovable boulder. Needles to say, the arm had to go.

With camera in hand and adventure at heart, Ralston ventured out into the great yonder thinking himself a self imposed master of his destiny. Ralston would go on to confess his faults and regrets into his camera, namely that he chose a life of isolation. This triggers flashbacks of him pushing his family and loved ones away, and evokes visions of a better life lived, if only he could get out of his prison.

So, how does Boyle turn what is essentially a waiting game into an enthralling movie? With a strong spiritual zeal, all of the tools available to him, and the participation of one gung-ho James Franco, who gives a career defining performance, his expressive acting selling the tears, the pain, and the happiness which his Aron Ralston goes through.

Boyle’s visual prowess is felt throughout, with photography (Enrique Chediak and Anthony Dod Mantle) and editing (John Harris) of high standard, and A. R. Rahman’s emotive score the perfect soundtrack.

Yet like all great stories, it is the moral which counts, that life is best lived with those who love you, and that to live is worthy of self sacrifice.