In the thin air above Switzerland, on the sheer rock-and-ice wall known as the Eiger North Face, an American climber is about to embark on the most perilous and meaningful ascent he has ever undertaken: an attempt to scale the mountain that took his father’s life. His extraordinary journey will take him from his home in Oregon to Europe’s majestic mountain range, the Alps, where he will witness the amazing feats of engineering that forged bridges, tunnels, and charming villages amidst the peaks; where he will learn about the life-saving science of avalanches; and where he will confront his darkest fears and greatest potential as he climbs to honor his father, who taught him to love Switzerland, mountains and life itself. Featuring some of the most spectacular giant screen imagery yet seen–captured by intrepid helicopter and mountaineering crews–the film celebrates both the unsurpassed beauty of the Alps and the indomitable spirit of the people who live, climb, and explore there.

Length: 45:00

Film Details

  • Year Released: 2007
  • Date Released:
    March 2007
  • Alternate Titles:
  • Status: In Distribution
  • 3D: No
  • Run Time: 31-50
  • Formats: 15/70
  • Distributor:

    MacGillivray Freeman Films

  • Produced By:
  • Executive Producer: Alexander Biner
  • Producer: Greg MacGillivray, Mark Krenzien
  • Director:  Stephen Judson
  • Associate Producer: 
  • Writer:  Stephen Judson
  • Cinematography: Brad Ohlund (DOP), Michael Brown (DOP mountain photography), Ron Goodman (DOP, aerial photography)
  • Sound Editor: 
  • Visual Effects:
  • Music/Score:  Steve Wood, featuring music and songs by Queen
  • Editor: Stephen Judson
  • Narrator: Michael Gambon
  • Other Credits: Pasquale Scaturro, expedition leader
  • Sponsors: Switzerland Tourism, Holcim

Genre

  • Adventure
  • Destination
  • Documentary
  • Nature

Website

Awards

  • Best Cinematography, Giant Screen Cinema Association (GSCA), 2007
  • Special Achievement in Film awarded to Ron Goodman for aerial cinematography, Giant Screen Cinema Association (GSCA), 2007

Film Facts