I could write a thousand-word review about this movie. I could call it the Walden of our times. I could tell you how it is an ode to the beauty of America as The Constant Gardener was to that of Africa and Spring, Fall, Summer, Winter… and Spring was to that of Asia.
I could tell you that its five chapters, Rebirth, Adolescence, Manhood, Family, and The Getting of Wisdom, form a remarkable portrait of renunciation and self-discovery in the mystical journey. I could tell you how it reminded me of my teacher’s wise counsel to me when I was “hell-bent” on getting enlightenment as soon as possible. (And, of course, I just did.)
But there’s something about profound experiences that demands a restraint of the tongue, a savoring of the sublime, and a respect for silence, so that the fewer the words, the better.
You see, watching Into the Wild is a sacred act. It is prayer. And, as prayer, there is nothing to say afterwards but “Thank You,” or “Amen.” Thanks to Trev for pointing me to this inspiring, but insightful and honest examination of one man’s incredible journey.
It was tragic that McCandless died out there in the wilderness; but then again, so many people have benefited from his story…
“But there?s something about profound experiences that demands a restraint of the tongue, a savoring of the sublime, and a respect for silence, so that the fewer the words, the better.”
Well put.
Oddly, or not, I added the movie to my netflix queue just before visiting your site.
Those “incidences” tend to become more common, don’t they?
Yes, both the type you’re better off not bludgeoning with words and the type where things coincide.
My wife and I watched this movie a few weeks ago. And, it’s something that needs to be witnessed, rather than verbally processed. It is that real.
This movie was outstanding. For a fifteen year old I very much appreciated this movie. It shows the world so much that not one individual could possibly understand everything this man went through. Yet you possibly couldn’t take in as much as you this movie percieves. Very intersting don’t you think?
Absolutely!
I would also suggest reading the book by the same name. Enjoyed it almost as much as the movie, or more…
Sounds like a great idea, Tom. Thanks!