10 Movies & Shows Like 180° South

Description: A documentary that captures the spirit of adventure and exploration, focusing on surfers traveling the world in search of the perfect wave. It shares themes of wanderlust, connection with nature, and the pursuit of passion.

Fact: It was one of the first surf documentaries to gain widespread popularity and is credited with helping to popularize surfing culture globally. The film's title has become synonymous with the idea of an idealized, never-ending journey.

Description: A visually stunning non-narrative film that explores the interconnectedness of humanity and nature through breathtaking imagery from around the world. It shares themes of global unity, environmental beauty, and the passage of time.

Fact: The film was shot in 24 countries over 14 months. It was one of the first films to be restored and transferred to 8K resolution.

Description: A harrowing documentary-drama about two climbers' disastrous expedition in the Peruvian Andes. It delves into themes of survival, human endurance, and the thin line between life and death in extreme environments.

Fact: The film combines interviews with the actual climbers and dramatic reenactments. It is based on Joe Simpson's bestselling book of the same name.

Description: This documentary delves into the world of big-wave surfing, showcasing the courage and dedication of surfers who chase monumental waves. It mirrors themes of human resilience, the awe of nature, and the thrill of pushing limits.

Fact: The film features some of the most legendary surfers in history, including Laird Hamilton. It was one of the first documentaries to use high-definition cameras to capture the intensity of big-wave surfing.

Description: A biographical adventure drama about a young man who abandons his possessions to travel into the Alaskan wilderness. It explores themes of self-discovery, the call of the wild, and the search for meaning beyond materialism.

Fact: The film is based on the true story of Christopher McCandless. The soundtrack was composed by Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam, adding a hauntingly beautiful layer to the narrative.

Description: A documentary following environmental photographer James Balog as he documents the melting of Arctic ice. It highlights themes of climate change, the fragility of nature, and the urgency of environmental activism.

Fact: The film features time-lapse photography of glaciers retreating over several years. It won the Excellence in Cinematography Award at the Sundance Film Festival.

Description: A gripping documentary about mountaineers attempting to conquer the Shark's Fin on Mount Meru, one of the most technically challenging climbs in the world. It highlights themes of perseverance, teamwork, and the raw power of nature.

Fact: The film was shot over several years, with the climbers making multiple attempts to summit. It won the Audience Award for U.S. Documentary at the Sundance Film Festival.

Description: A documentary profiling photographer Sebastião Salgado's work, which captures the raw beauty and harsh realities of the natural world and human existence. It reflects themes of environmentalism, human resilience, and the power of visual storytelling.

Fact: The film was co-directed by Wim Wenders and Salgado's son, Juliano Ribeiro Salgado. It won a Special Prize at the Cannes Film Festival.

Description: This documentary chronicles the history of rock climbing in Yosemite Valley, focusing on the rebellious spirit and daring feats of climbers. It shares themes of adventure, counterculture, and the human drive to conquer the impossible.

Fact: The film features rare archival footage and interviews with climbing legends. It explores the tension between climbers and park authorities over the years.

Description: A breathtaking documentary following Alex Honnold's attempt to free solo climb El Capitan, a 3,000-foot rock face in Yosemite. It embodies themes of extreme risk, personal challenge, and the sublime beauty of nature.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. It was shot without safety ropes, mirroring the climber's own perilous journey.