Review of Vertical Limit (2000) by Tony B — 02 Sep 2012

Viewed on 25/9/04 (Sat).

This together with DEEP BLUE SEA are two adventure actioners I am keen to catch. I don't really know why. Just got a good feeling about them.

I like VERTICAL LIMIT and even have a certain respect for it. It is quite hard to come across a rather human adventure actioner. It chooses not to let its male lead be the sole hero with all the bright ideas and fearless gut. It does not have any unarmed combat and gunfight to induce excitement. The only antagonists are the violent weather, the treacherous terrain and all that snow. The movie keeps this as a focus and develops into a very nail-biting rescue mission, that is believable and never over-the-top melodramatic.

There are many scenes which require a very clear-minded person to make very very tough decisions, even that means seeing your loved ones and close friends die. Up there, if you let your emotions get in the way, you will jeopardise the survival chances of many others. Making sacrifices become more of logical than emotional. Respecting and saving life is of paramount importance. I gain a good idea of the psyche of a mountain climber.

Rating: B+.