Watch Accidental Climber

Accidental Climber is a gripping and emotional documentary that tells the remarkable story of Jim Geiger, a well-known mountaineer and philanthropist, who at the age of 68 sets out to climb Mount Everest for the first time. This inspirational film explores the motivations behind Geiger's journey and sheds light on the challenges he faces in his pursuit of this lifelong dream.

The documentary begins by introducing us to Geiger and his background. We learn about his life as a successful businessman, his love for the outdoors, and his passion for mountaineering. We also get a glimpse into his philanthropic work through his organization, The Juniper Fund, which helps support the families of Nepalese climbers who have been killed or injured while working on expeditions.

The film then shifts its focus to Geiger's journey to Everest. We witness his preparations for the climb, which include physical training, altitude acclimatization, and logistical arrangements. The documentary does an excellent job of emphasizing the physical and mental challenges that come with climbing Everest. It highlights the dangers of altitude sickness, hypothermia, and the unpredictable weather conditions that one may encounter during the ascent.

Throughout the climb, we are introduced to a cast of fascinating characters, including legendary climbers like Liz Hawley and Ang Tshering Lama. Their stories of past experiences on the mountain and their perspectives on the risks and rewards of mountaineering provide valuable insight into the sport and its culture.

In addition to the more technical aspects of the climb, the film explores the personal motivations behind Geiger's quest to summit Everest. His story is one of resilience, determination, and a never-give-up attitude. We see him battle through adversity and setbacks, including injuries and setbacks caused by his age. However, his relentless drive and the unwavering support of his team make for a heartwarming and inspiring tale.

The documentary is shot beautifully and makes excellent use of the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas. The camera work is impressive, and viewers are treated to breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks, vast glaciers, and rugged terrain. The shots of the climbers ascending the mountain and the thrilling footage of the treacherous icefalls are particularly impressive.

Throughout the movie, the bond between the climbers becomes increasingly apparent as they support each other through the challenges of the climb. There are moments of genuine camaraderie and friendship that touch the heart and bring an added layer of emotion to the story.

Overall, Accidental Climber is an engaging and thought-provoking film that offers an intimate look at what drives people to climb the tallest mountain in the world. It is a remarkable story of human spirit, endurance, and adventure that will inspire anyone who watches it. Even if you're not a mountain climber yourself, this documentary is a fascinating look into a world that very few people get to experience first-hand. Highly recommended.

Accidental Climber is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 7 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.3.