Free Solo (2018) is an extraordinary documentary that follows the awe-inspiring journey of rock climber Alex Honnold as he attempts to scale El Capitan, a 3,000-foot vertical rock face in Yosemite National Park, without any ropes or safety gear—a feat known as free solo climbing. Directed by Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, Free Solo offers an intimate and thrilling look at Honnold’s mind, his preparation for the climb, and the immense physical and psychological challenges he faces in his quest to accomplish the impossible.

The documentary centers around Alex Honnold, a man who has revolutionized the world of rock climbing through his fearless and innovative approach. Honnold’s goal is to become the first person to free solo El Capitan, which has been regarded as one of the most difficult and dangerous rock climbs in the world. Over the course of the film, Honnold trains and prepares for the climb, while the filmmakers capture his every move and delve into his personal life, relationships, and the emotional toll of pursuing such a dangerous endeavor.

Through the lens of the filmmakers, we witness not just the physical challenge of scaling El Capitan, but also the internal battle Honnold faces. His drive for success and perfection is juxtaposed with the potential consequences of failure: death. The film also explores the psychological toll such a pursuit has on those around him, particularly his girlfriend, Sanni McCandless, who expresses deep concern for his safety as he plans the climb.