10 Movies & Shows Like Explore With the Note

Description: A groundbreaking surf documentary that follows two surfers chasing summer around the globe, celebrating the spirit of adventure and the beauty of the ocean.

Fact: The film was shot on a shoestring budget but became a cultural phenomenon. It introduced many Americans to the sport of surfing and exotic locations worldwide.

Description: A non-narrative film that presents a series of visually stunning scenes from around the world, emphasizing the interconnectedness of humanity and nature.

Fact: Shot in 24 countries over 14 months, the film used a special 70mm film format for maximum visual impact. It has no dialogue or narration, relying entirely on imagery and music.

Description: A young traveler's search for an untouched paradise leads to a secret community, exploring themes of utopia, isolation, and the darker side of paradise.

Fact: The film's production damaged the actual beach in Thailand where it was shot, leading to environmental controversy. The location, Maya Bay, was later closed to tourists for rehabilitation.

Description: A transformative journey across South America by a young Che Guevara, showcasing the beauty of the continent and the personal growth that comes from travel.

Fact: The film is based on Che Guevara's real travel diaries. The production traveled to many of the original locations Guevara visited, including the leper colony in Peru.

Description: This film follows a daydreamer who embarks on a real-life adventure, blending stunning visuals with a journey of self-discovery and personal transformation.

Fact: The film was shot in multiple countries including Iceland, Greenland, and the Himalayas, capturing breathtaking landscapes. The skateboarding scene down the Icelandic road was done by Ben Stiller himself.

Description: A powerful story about a young man who leaves society behind to explore the wilderness, emphasizing themes of freedom, nature, and self-exploration.

Fact: The film is based on the true story of Christopher McCandless. Many scenes were shot in the actual locations McCandless visited, including the infamous 'Magic Bus' in Alaska.

Description: A humorous yet poignant tale of two older men attempting to hike the Appalachian Trail, blending adventure with reflections on aging and friendship.

Fact: The film is based on Bill Bryson's memoir. Robert Redford had been trying to adapt the book into a film for nearly a decade before it was finally made.

Description: A documentary following a modern-day adventurer retracing a 1968 journey to Patagonia, blending stunning visuals with themes of environmentalism and exploration.

Fact: The film features original footage from the 1968 expedition that inspired it. The soundtrack includes music by Jack Johnson, who is friends with the filmmaker.

Description: A father completes the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in honor of his late son, exploring themes of grief, community, and spiritual awakening through travel.

Fact: The film was directed by Emilio Estevez and stars his father, Martin Sheen. Many of the pilgrims shown in the film were real travelers on the Camino.

Description: A deeply personal journey of a woman hiking the Pacific Crest Trail to heal from personal tragedy, highlighting themes of resilience and connection with nature.

Fact: Reese Witherspoon carried a real backpack weighing up to 65 pounds during filming to authentically portray the physical challenges of the hike. The film is based on Cheryl Strayed's memoir.