The North

Last night I was fortunate enough to see an advanced screening of a great movie with Director Q & A session. The North (written and directed by Bart Schrijver) Two men, close friends who have grown apart over the years meet up to walk an epic 600km trail in Scotland. The director himself has walked New Zealand's own Te Araroa, the 3000km length of the country trail, amongst other thru-hikes. What he brings to this movie is the realism of thru-hiking unlike any other movie I've seen. There's little dialogue; certainly, no internal dialogue and no narrator. What is revealed to the audience is only what they reveal to each other. With epic scenery and true to life feel, it's one not to be missed, especially if you're either a thru-hiker yourself or someone who has a thru-hiker in their life and wants to understand a bit about this weird compulsion to walk great distances. Forget movies like Wild or the Way; both good movies, but also very "Hollywood". The North is raw, real, and just might inspire you to tackle a thru-hike yourself. Opening in theatres across New Zealand this Thursday, and at vary stages around the world. (Scotland, Bart said they'll be showcasing the movie there in about 3 weeks. I'll be interested to hear how it's received there). Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with the production in any way. Just a good movie I had the chance to watch with the film maker present.