10 Movies & Shows Like Facing Monsters

Description: This gripping survival story recounts a climber's harrowing experience after being left for dead on a remote mountain. The film's intense narrative and stark realism highlight the thin line between life and death in extreme environments.

Fact: The film is based on a true story and uses a combination of interviews and reenactments to tell the tale. It has been praised for its dramatic tension and emotional depth.

Description: A visually stunning meditation on humanity's relationship with mountains, this film combines breathtaking cinematography with a poetic narrative. It explores the allure and danger of these natural wonders, appealing to both climbers and nature lovers.

Fact: The film features a score by the Australian Chamber Orchestra and narration by Willem Dafoe. It was shot in various locations around the world, including the Himalayas and the Alps.

Description: This film explores the life of a reclusive climber who seeks out the most dangerous and remote peaks, showcasing the solitude and spirituality found in extreme mountaineering. It highlights the personal journey and the intimate relationship between the climber and the mountains.

Fact: The subject of the documentary, Marc-André Leclerc, was known for his solo ascents in harsh conditions. Tragically, he passed away in an avalanche shortly after the film's completion.

Description: This documentary follows a kayaker's quest to navigate the four great rivers of the Tibetan Plateau, blending adventure with personal redemption. The film captures the beauty and peril of remote river expeditions, as well as the emotional journey of the protagonist.

Fact: The kayaker, Scott Lindgren, was the first person to successfully descend all four rivers. The film also addresses his struggles with mental health and his path to recovery.

Description: This documentary follows four elite climbers as they train for the Olympics, capturing their personal struggles and triumphs. The film emphasizes the mental and physical demands of competitive climbing, as well as the camaraderie among athletes.

Fact: It was the first time sport climbing was included in the Olympics, making the 2020 Tokyo Games a historic event for the sport. The film provides an insider's view of the athletes' journeys to the Games.

Description: Chronicling the first ascent of the Shark's Fin on Mount Meru, this documentary combines breathtaking visuals with a gripping narrative of perseverance and teamwork in the face of extreme adversity. The film captures the essence of high-stakes climbing and the bonds formed through shared challenges.

Fact: The climb documented in the film took three attempts over several years due to brutal weather conditions and injuries. It was directed by one of the climbers, Jimmy Chin, who is also a renowned photographer.

Description: This film provides an intimate look at the lives of Sherpas who support climbers on Mount Everest, highlighting their resilience and the risks they face. It sheds light on the often-overlooked human element in high-altitude expeditions.

Fact: The documentary was filmed during the 2014 Everest season, which was marked by a deadly avalanche that killed 16 Sherpas. It offers a rare perspective on the cultural and economic dynamics of Everest climbing.

Description: This documentary traces the history of rock climbing in Yosemite Valley, focusing on the rebellious spirit and cultural evolution of the climbing community. It celebrates the daring and often reckless pursuit of vertical limits.

Fact: The film features archival footage and interviews with legendary climbers who shaped the sport. It is part of the Reel Rock film tour, which showcases climbing documentaries.

Description: This film explores the challenges faced by a team attempting to kayak one of the world's most dangerous rivers. It highlights the teamwork, risk, and sheer determination required to conquer extreme whitewater environments.

Fact: The expedition took place on the Tsangpo River in Tibet, often referred to as the 'Everest of rivers' due to its difficulty. The team faced numerous setbacks, including injuries and equipment failures.

Description: This documentary captures the raw intensity and psychological challenges of extreme climbing, focusing on one man's quest to conquer El Capitan without ropes. The film delves into the mental and physical preparation required for such a feat, mirroring the themes of human endurance and the pursuit of the impossible.

Fact: The climber featured in the film, Alex Honnold, completed the historic free solo climb of El Capitan in just under 4 hours. The documentary won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in