Over the years, adventure and survival films and documentaries have made their mark in the industry. Many of these films are made stronger by being based on or inspired by real events. Whether it’s an elderly man searching for meaning at the end of his life or a young girl trying to escape a life of abuse, stories become more meaningful thanks to their natural setting and themes of oneness with the earth.
While the horror genre has presented many of these types of stories, there are quite a few incredible stories about journeying across the Appalachian Trail, searching for souls in the wilderness, and even learning how to survive when things don’t go as planned.
Walking In The Woods (2015) – 6.4
walking in the forest Released in 2015, the film features an excellent cast, led by Robert Redford and Nick Nolte. The two actors embark on a reflective journey through the Appalachian Trail in an attempt to break out of age to take on the ultimate adventure. While it didn’t achieve box office success, the story is emotional and offers lessons about growing old and never giving up despite its limitations.
Most critics are primarily interested in seeing two veteran actors talk on screen, telling jokes and bringing smiles to viewers, especially those who are used to how to climb the AT. If for no other reason than the soothing views and beautiful location, this is one of the must-see lists.
Southern Pedestrians (2005) – 6.5
The program also follows a journey along the Appalachian.exist Trail southern pedestrians, With no luck, young Olivia decided to help build her confidence by hiking the more than 2,000 miles on the Appalachian Trail on her own. The story follows her journey as she meets different types of people along the way and struggles to decide whether or not to continue.
Released in 2005, this indie film spends most of its time at independent film festivals. Director Ben Wagner creates resonant and brilliant characters that make viewers feel like they’re hiking with them.
Edie (2019) – 6.6
Directed by Simon Hunter, this 2017 British film follows an elderly woman named Edie, played by Sheila Hancock, as she embarks on a journey of a lifetime. Edie A great story about overcoming past regrets, learning to make decisions for yourself, and embracing nature.
Edie decided to go hiking in the Scottish Highlands after the death of her husband and her relationship with her daughter became increasingly strained. This is the trip she was supposed to take with her father, but since his death, she has started on her own. While the film itself is a bit generic, Hancock’s acting and story are great motivators in their own right.
Wild (2014) – 6.6
wild is a great adventure movie about discovery and growth. The story deals with an adult theme, with a troubled teenager having an inappropriate interaction with her uncle living in Alaska. She decides to run away and meets a backpacker in her 50s and decides to follow him. In the end, the two worked together to bring her back home to Seattle.
The film was a success at film festivals and received very positive reviews on Rotten Tomatoes. Fans may recognize Ella Purnell from her latest role, Jackie. Yellow Shirt. The scenery is beautiful, and director Frank Green uses its beauty and the silence of nature to “show rather than tell” the developing relationship between the two main characters. Basically, the story is an outdoor adventure story with amazing character development.
Wild (2014) – 7.1
wildBased on Cheryl Strayed’s memoir, the script follows Reese Witherspoon’s story of Strayed as she embarks on a hike on the Pacific Crest Trail. Freshly divorced and her life in disarray, Strayed is on a mission on this trip to discover herself and recover from her latest misfortune.
Along the way, she meets many people, including an animal she believes is the spirit of her late mother (Laura Dern). Both Witherspoon and Dern were nominated for an Oscar for their roles in the film. The film won over critics and was considered one of the best self-discovery films of its time. It’s about the feeling of living with the loss of a loved one, and sometimes a person has to push their limits to get through the pain. This is a must-see for nature lovers everywhere.
Track (2013) – 7.2
Mia Wasikowska is generally known for her horror performances, but she changed the tempo in this epic memoir. monitor Based on the true story of a young woman traveling alone through the Australian desert with her four camels and her dog. Adam Driver plays a National Geographic photographer documenting part of her journey.
The film was successful at film festivals and impressed critics. Wasikowska’s performance as the unruly scene added to the beauty and realism of the film. The poetic images of the Australian outback are not often seen in outdoor films and they provide an interesting perspective to the plot.
The Way Back (2010) – 7.3
Another movie based on a true story, way to go back home is a fierce survival film about the struggles of a Polish officer trying to escape from a Siberian labor camp. Set during World War II, the story is a survival adventure story filled with self-discovery, friendship, and profound themes about people and nature.
The cinematography, script, and overall creative technical aspects of the film make it highly recommended to watch. Director Peter Weir made the audience cheer for the outcasts throughout the film, and he struck a deal with the all-star cast.
Road (2010) – 7.4
way It was an emotional tribute to a man’s son who grieve the loss of his parents in a way no parent should. Emilio Estevez directed this hiking film, which focuses on a popular outdoor hike rarely seen in cinemas. It stars Martin Sheen as Dr. Thomas Avery, who follows the Santiago Pilgrimage Route to France and eventually Spain following the death of his son.
Instead of just picking up the ashes as desired, Dr. Avery decided to make the trip himself. This movie shows a father’s love for his son in a very emotional way. Walking movies have models of healing, way Without exception, the stunning scenery and spiritually guided moments make this a must-see.
127 hours (2010) – 7.5
127 hours Another real-life survival and dramatic rescue story, this time set in the wilderness of Slot Canyon in Southeast Utah. James Franco plays real-life character Aron Ralston, who rides his bike through a canyon when his arm gets caught by a misaligned rock. The rest of the film tells the story of his struggle to free himself and achieve safety.
The film was nominated for three Golden Globe Awards, including Best Actor for Franco. Some critics consider it one of his best performances. He tries to create an atmosphere on screen that makes the audience feel as if they are trapped in the canyon with him. The reality is that traveling alone can cause a lot of problems and the viewer finds himself panting in front of the screen with nothing he can do to help him out.
Lost in the Wild (2007) – 8.1
to the wild It’s at the top of the list for a reason. The film makes viewers lose in the dream of fleeing into the wilderness with nothing but a backpack and shoes on their feet. Sean Penn captivated audiences with this film based on a true story, making them believe he could do anything. The film follows Christopher McCandless, played by Emile Hirsch, as he travels across North America and into the Alaskan wilderness.
The film was nominated for two Golden Globes and two Academy Awards, and won a Golden Globe. The film is full of life and really questions what people do with their limited time on earth. Worthy themes, beautiful cinematography, important lessons, and exciting adventures make this a must-see hiking movie.