Into the Wild

Director: Sean Penn
Starring: Emile Hirsch


This adaptation of Jon Krakauer's book of the same name tells the true story of Christopher McCandless (spoilers), who on graduating from university in 1990, gave away his $24,000 savings and began to travel across America as a tramp.


The film marks actor Sean Penn's latest excursion into direction, and here he's mostly up to the task. Although the direction is slow and ponderous at times, the scenes are very well constructed and look great, with some really epic, sweeping shots of the American countryside. Penn also manages to coax a stellar performance out of the film's young lead, Emile Hirsch, who acts alone for long segments of the film. With so much screen time to himself, the film was obviously going to live or die by his performance and thankfully he proves a captivating and extremely likeable lead. The support is also excellent, especially Vince Vaughn, who really proves his serious acting credentials here.


This film is not without its flaws. Some scenes are overly sentimental, feeling far too "Hollywood" for a film based on a serious non-fiction book. The film is also extremely slow moving, excusable for long periods on account of it's sheer grandiosity but intermittently frustrating. And despite the admittedly awe-inspiring nature of the cinematography (the aforementioned sweeping shots really do the business), the cynic in me couldn't help feeling I was watching an advert for the USA tourist board.


Despite its pervading flaws, the film succeeds on most levels; it has a kind of unabashed, well-meaning ambition and a moving story that help to paper over its apparent cracks. At well over two hours, and with protracted periods of little action or dialogue, those looking for popcorn fodder should avoid this like the plague. Those looking for a film with some real emotional payoff, however, will be hard pressed to find a better film. Satisfying


3.5/5