In the realm of adventure documentaries, The Devil’s Climb stands tall as a captivating chronicle of human resilience, unwavering friendship, and the indomitable spirit of exploration. This National Geographic and Plimsoll Productions collaboration follows renowned rock climbers Alex Honnold and Tommy Caldwell on an extraordinary 2,600-mile expedition, culminating in their attempt to conquer the notorious Devils Thumb in southeast Alaska.
The film opens by introducing us to the dynamic duo of Honnold and Caldwell, longtime friends whose relationship has evolved from mentor-mentee to equal partners in climbing. Caldwell, the elder and more established climber when they first met, approaches Honnold with an audacious proposal: to climb the Devils Thumb, a sinister tower of ice-plastered granite known as one of North America’s most treacherous mountains.
What sets The Devil’s Climb apart from typical climbing documentaries is its emphasis on the journey rather than just the destination. The film cleverly employs the “buddy road trip” trope, taking viewers on a cross-country adventure as Honnold and Caldwell bicycle their way to Alaska. This extended prelude serves multiple purposes: it allows the audience to connect with the climbers on a personal level, showcases the breathtaking landscapes of the American West and Canada, and builds anticipation for the final challenge. A montage of states they pass through, set to the Allah-Lahs’ “Busman’s Holiday,” perfectly captures the classic road trip vibe.
The documentary doesn’t shy away from the personal stakes involved. For Caldwell, this climb represents more than just another conquest; it’s a chance at redemption following a potentially career-ending Achilles injury. The film sensitively portrays his nervousness and determination as he tests his rehabilitated body on a trial climb, adding a layer of human vulnerability to the superhuman feats we witness later.
Honnold, known for his death-defying solo climbs, reveals a softer side in this film. His participation in this dangerous endeavor is driven not by personal glory, but by a desire to support his friend’s comeback. This shift in focus from Honnold’s individual exploits to the power of their partnership adds depth to the narrative and showcases his growth since his Free Solo days.
As the duo finally reaches Alaska after two months and 2000 miles of travel, the film ramps up the tension. The challenge they face is monumental: to scale all five peaks of the Devils Thumb massif in a single day, racing against fading daylight. The filmmakers do an excellent job of conveying the enormity of this task, juxtaposing earlier shots of the mountain looking deceptively small in pictures with the reality of its imposing presence.
The climbing sequences are nothing short of breathtaking. The camera work captures both the majestic beauty of the Alaskan wilderness and the heart-pounding intensity of the climb. The film does an excellent job explaining technical aspects of climbing, such as simul-climbing, in a way that’s accessible to non-climbers while still conveying the extreme danger involved.
What truly elevates The Devil’s Climb is its exploration of trust and partnership. As Honnold pushes Caldwell to take risks beyond his comfort zone, we see the delicate balance between encouraging a friend and ensuring their safety. The sequence where Tommy gets lost and has to backtrack is particularly tense, highlighting the real dangers they face and the absolute trust required between climbing partners.
The film’s emotional climax comes as the pair finally reaches the summit. Caldwell’s triumphant return to high-stakes climbing is palpable, and Honnold’s joy for his friend’s success is genuinely touching. This moment transcends the physical achievement, becoming a powerful testament to the strength of their friendship and the human capacity to overcome adversity.
In reflecting on their journey, Honnold demonstrates a newfound maturity. The brooding intensity that characterized his earlier career has been tempered by the warmth of friendship and family, adding a poignant note to the film’s conclusion.
The Devil’s Climb is more than just an adventure documentary; it’s a multifaceted exploration of friendship, perseverance, and the human spirit. By interweaving the physical challenge of the climb with the personal stories of its protagonists, the film creates a narrative that is both thrilling and deeply moving. Whether you’re an avid climber or simply someone who appreciates stories of human achievement, The Devil’s Climb offers an unforgettable journey to the heights of human potential.
The Devil’s Climb, premieres on Oct. 17 at 9/8c on National Geographic and available to stream the next day on Disney+ and Hulu.
IMAGE CREDIT: National Geographic/Taylor Shaffer