Meru

Meru is a gripping, heart-wrenching, and inspirational documentary film which follows the journey of three incredibly brave mountaineers as they attempt to scale the previously unclimbed peak of Meru, a 21,000-foot mountaintop in the Himalayas. The film, directed by Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, provides a glimpse into the lives of Conrad Anker, Jimmy Chin, and Renan Ozturk, the trio who sets out to achieve the impossible--summiting the peak of Meru's Shark's Fin.

The movie begins with the trio's initial attempt in 2008 which ends disastrously when the team is forced to retreat just shy of the summit, due to inclement weather conditions. The film then fast forwards to 2011, where they once again attempt the climb with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. Their second try fails because of an accident in which Renan gets seriously injured. As if to add to the already challenging endeavor, the team's third attempt comes after a devastating avalanche on Mt. Everest in 2014 takes the lives of sixteen Sherpa guides, creating a palpable feeling of apprehension.

Meru is not just a movie about mountaineering but an exploration of the human spirit and the unflinching drive that propels humans to achieve the unattainable. The film provides a fascinating insight into the psyche of these climbers, as well as their families and friends who have to live with the knowledge that their loved ones are risking their lives to pursue their dreams. The scenes depicting the trio’s physical and emotional struggles as they attempt to climb Shark's Fin are both awe-inspiring and heart-breaking, with the fear of imminent death ever-present.

One of Meru's strengths is the documentary's inner access to the climbers and the various interviews and footage with their close family and friends, many of whom are also avid climbers. The movie offers a unique perspective as the audience gets to bear witness to the intense emotional toll that mountaineering brings upon everyone involved. It's evident that the climbers understand the risks but feel compelled to challenge themselves and see it as their life's passion.

Meru not only captures the beauty of the mountains but also the camaraderie that develops amongst climbers who share the same goals and aspirations. The filmmakers do an excellent job of portraying the unique sense of community that exists amongst mountaineers. The climbers' unwavering support which includes risking their safety to save each other, reinforces the idea of the brotherhood shared among climbers, regardless of race, culture, or ideology,

The music score plays a significant role in the movie by adding an additional layer of emotion to an already compelling narrative. The music helps the audience feel the tension and anxiety of the climb and elicits a range of emotions such as fear, relief, and sadness in the viewers as they are taken on this heart racing journey.

In conclusion, Meru is a documentary that goes beyond the realm of mountaineering, it tells a story of humanity, courage, and perseverance. It showcases the highs and lows of life and the hard-won triumph of the human spirit. Regardless of whether you're a seasoned climber or someone who's just curious about the sport, Meru is a film that will keep you at the edge of your seat and inspire you to chase your dreams.