This documentary could have easily failed. If it had been based on the original book then it would have encapsulated too many different ideas to be coherent. It has therefore concentrated on two specific themes.
The first is that of Joe Simpson's changing attitude towards the mountains and the Eiger specifically, from being able to enjoy and climb to that of withdrawing from the sport.
The second is a more specific event, the 1936 attempt by four climbers on the face. This is explored through reconstructions of the events, and by visits to certain parts of the route by Joe himself to explain the difficulties. Joe Simpson comes across as quiet and thoughtful throughout, and, through his previous experiences, is really able to empathise with the plight of the climbers, particularly Toni Kurz.
The technical work is smooth, with the camera shots and layout being very similar in style to "Touching the Void", which this documentary has been billed as the sequel to.
The first is that of Joe Simpson's changing attitude towards the mountains and the Eiger specifically, from being able to enjoy and climb to that of withdrawing from the sport.
The second is a more specific event, the 1936 attempt by four climbers on the face. This is explored through reconstructions of the events, and by visits to certain parts of the route by Joe himself to explain the difficulties. Joe Simpson comes across as quiet and thoughtful throughout, and, through his previous experiences, is really able to empathise with the plight of the climbers, particularly Toni Kurz.
The technical work is smooth, with the camera shots and layout being very similar in style to "Touching the Void", which this documentary has been billed as the sequel to.