An American Ascent

An American Ascent is a riveting 2014 documentary that delves into the subject of racial disparity within the outdoors community and does so by focusing on a group of black climbers as they ascend North America's highest peak - Denali, also known as Mount McKinley. Directed by George Potter and Andy Adkins, this eye-opening film seeks to address the lack of diversity and representation in the outdoors industry and the world of mountaineering.

The story unfolds with an introduction of nine members of the African-American community, all gathered from different parts of the United States, as they set forth to undertake a massive expedition. They aim to climb Denali, a sprawling and intimidating peak in Alaska that attracts seasoned mountaineers and beginner climbers from worldwide. Each of these nine climbers comes with a different backstory, a unique motivation, and varying degrees of mountaineering experience. Some of them are accomplished climbers, while others are relatively new to this daunting world. Despite these differing individualities, there's one thing they share – a total lack of representation in the demographic of mountaineering, an issue they’re aiming to tackle head-on.

The climbers are a diverse bunch, consisting of a single mom, a newbie hiker, teachers, and even professional mountaineers. Yet, despite their varying backgrounds and levels of expertise, they share a common goal - breaking the racial barrier in the predominantly white world of outdoor exploration and mountaineering. The documentary chronicles their journey and personal transformations over a span of two week-long expeditions, showing their battles against not only the mountain's harsh elements but the psychological challenges as well.

An American Ascent doesn't shy away from exploring the wider social and historical issues behind the lack of diversity in the outdoors. It points out that black people have a historically complicated relationship with the wilderness due to discriminatory laws and social norms, evolving economic standards, and other systemic issues. The film discusses these complexities in a compassionate, insightful manner, trying to encourage and promote the idea of racial diversity in outdoor adventures by highlighting the importance of exposure and setting role models in high-altitude mountaineering.

Brilliant cinematography is a hallmark of this film, showing the breathtaking landscapes of Denali and the harsh, challenging conditions that the climbers face. Through intense colds, altitude sickness, and harboring doubts, the group pushes forward, driven by their collective will power and determination.

The film also paints an honest picture of the emotional aspects of their journey. We get a glimpse of the climbers on a very personal level – their fears, their triumphs, their doubts and their determination. There are moving moments of camaraderie, conflict, self-discovery, and personal growth, making the audience feel intimately connected to each of the climbers.

Moreover, the film subtly attempts to address the implications of climate change. The team's expedition to Denali doubles as a scientific mission. Due to global warming, Denali's glaciers have been retreating at an alarming rate, and the team collects snow samples as they trek up the mountain for further scientific analysis. Providing an environmental education edge to the gripping story, this aspect of the movie adds a critical layer to an already rich narrative tapestry.

An American Ascent serves as a thought-provoking commentary beyond just the adventure of climbing a mountain. It dives into layers of racial, social, and environmental issues, working towards the ultimate goal of encouraging diversity in the great outdoors. Through its portrayal of the essence of human spirit, determination, bravery and resilience in the face of adversity, the film speaks volumes not just about mountaineering but about breaking barriers and changing norms in our society as well.

Ultimately, An American Ascent yes, is about hardship and survival, but it’s also about hope and change. It sends a powerful message – challenging one’s own limits and daring to venture into the unknown is not exclusive to a particular race or community. It's a human experience that belongs to all, no matter the color of their skin.