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Christopher McCandless is as complex a character as one is likely to find in both the realms of fiction and reality. As depicted in "Into the Wild," he becomes a multifaceted individual incapable of classification. Played brilliantly and tortuously by Emile Hirsch, McCandless is at once a revolutionary, a coward, a hero, and a disaffected youth taken to the nth degree. Was McCandless brilliant in his decision to leave materialism behind and live off the wild? Or insane? "Into the Wild" offers no easy answers. The film, directed by Sean Penn, presents McCandless' life objectively and asks the viewer to make a judgment on the young man's unorthodox decisions. Penn has assembled an impressive cast in support of Hirsch, including young actresses Jena Malone and Kristen Stewart, and thespian vets Marcia Gay Harden, William Hurt and Oscar-nominated Hal Holbrook. All fill a universe that is at times beautiful and heartbreaking. The cinematography, too, is simply gorgeous, taking viewers on their own trek through the wilds of the American West and finally into McCandless ultimate destination, Alaska. "Into the Wild" suffers from minor pacing problems, though these are likely more manageable on DVD. Still, it wouldn't be unusual to have to finish the film in two or more sittings. Getting to the end rewards viewers with a powerful film and equally powerful performances all hinged on the real story of the ultimate rebel.Read full review
The dichotomy in this young man's character and personality traits is vividly portrayed here, yet without passing judgment. He was unquestionably awed by the majesty of nature, but somehow didn't respect it enough. He reminds me of a person who is enthralled with weaponry but neglects to approach it with proper training and caution. His treatment of people, too, is incongruous. He was deliberately cruel to his parents and sister, withholding correspondence from them, yet to those who were little more than acquaintances, he apparently gave love and respect. This film is simultaneously gritty and cruel, beautiful and touching. But it never goes too far in either direction. This kind of balance is difficult to achieve, and makes for a different but fulfilling viewing experience. Make sure to get the widescreen version of this sad but compelling journey.Read full review
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Whether it is unfortunate or not, we are all mortal beings. What we choose to do with our mortality is not always our own choice but God's or even the devil's decision. This movie is a perfect example of how our mortal intentions, actions or even thoughts wind us up in places we do not choose to be or even want to be. The main character of this movie, Chris, who later turns his name to Alex on the road, ventures off to a land unknown with virtually nothing with him but a backpack. He is a graduate of a prestigious college and gives a whopping savings of 24 grand to a charity. Unfortunately, I see a few mistakes he made along the way with his journeys. I see Alex as being a free-spirited, courageous and brave man whose fate led him to a sudden and surprising end to his life. To live in a way he did makes me see him in a light that few of us reach because we are too scared and fearful of the elements. The elements of nature; the elements within us; and territories of the unknown. Some people have told me that he is stupid for going out into the wild and that he chose his own death. I believe that although he did suffer and cry at the end his spirit lives on and I am glad the story was told. He was a brilliant man and it saddens me that a little root in the wild could harm someone to that degree. He loved well, ate well (until the end) and survived well on something which was his calling. If he were alive, however he could have shared his story himself and shared it with others to help them. This movie makes me wonder about the dangers of nature and the dangers with in us all to venture "Into the Wild." In general, this movie is very well put together but I was a little let down by the ending. It seems an accurate account of both his life story and his love for freedom. The movie ends abruptly and does not meld together nicely. It is as though I watched the entire thing just to be let down by the ending. A very nice movie though for movie-lovers that enjoy a walk on the wild side. 4 stars.Read full review
Sean Penn directs this film about a young man from an affluent family who feels uncomfortable with society and hits the road hobo style after graduation from college. He eventually leaves civilization behind and heads into the wilds of Alaska to experience his greatest adventure yet, living off the land with the help of a .22 rifle he purchased. Based on a non fiction book by Jon Krakauer of the same name, the movie follows the story of Chris McCandless using quotations from his journal and relationships with people he meets along the way to peer into the mind of an intelligent yet troubled youth. The obvious question, "is he mentally ill?" is never answered but evidence is presented. "You live here in the dirt?" asks Hal Holbrook's character. On another occasion he helps a middle age couple over relationship troubles exhibiting wisdom far beyond his years. So it is left to the viewer to decide, but whether insane or desperate to search for truth, Chris finds his biggest challenge alone in the Alaskan Wilderness. This movie is masterpiece of character development and screenplay by Sean Penn. The musical score detracts rather than adds to the story. Emile Hirsh lost 40 pounds during the shoot and gives a haunting performance as Chris McCandless.Read full review
Many stars in this along with some great acting make this story incredible. It's based on the true story of a man who decides to live off the grid after his parents bitter divorce. This leads him to the desolate tundras of Alaska where he discovers that true happiness is only real if it's shared. And it helps to live within driving distance of a hospital. This is a very long movie but well worth watching. Oh and he dies in the end.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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