Review of Into the Wild (2007) by Steven R — 02 Aug 2013

Into the Wild was originally a novel by Jon Krakauer, a novel that has had a profound impact on my life. It chronicles the true story of a young man named Chris McCandless who leaves his family and former life behind after graduating from college to pursue a life on the road. An adherent of Henry David Thoreau and Leo Tolstoy, he leaves behind his possessions and lives as close to nature as possible. He even adopts a new name, Alexander Supertramp, to signify how completely he is leaving behind his former life. I've always identified with McCandless, being an idolizer of Thoreau's ideals myself. Seeing a screen adaptation of this novel was a deeply moving experience for me. It is an excellent translation of the novel to the screen.

There isn't really much of a story line to this film. McCandless tramps across America, meeting several people who befriend and aid him. Eventually, he reaches Alaska, where the story ends. Its not the events that occur in the film that make this a great movie, it is the ideals set forth in the film that do. McCandless' condemnation of modern, materialistic living, his search for joy in every aspect of life, his deep connection with nature, are what make this film so extraordinary.

Emile Hirsch delivers an astonishing performance as Chris. This performance really can't be explained. It must be seen to be truly appreciated. Hirsch becomes Chris. It is mesmerizing.

In Walt Whitman's Song of the Open Road he says, "I swear to you there are divine things more beautiful than words can tell." That is how I feel writing about this movie. Watch it. Revel in the extraordinary journey of McCanless. Be amazed.

A note: It would be beneficial for the viewer to read the novel first and I highly encourage you to do so. The novel more fully explores Chris's motives for doing what he does and makes the movie a better experience.