Into the Wild  (2007)

actually had to turn the film off half way through it was that bad

I went to see this film in the cinema and was taken back with how great it was. This film is based on a true story about a young man's life after he graduates from College and decides to go travelling. The film jumps back and forth between his childhood and his travels and is told from his sister's point of view, but is not confusing in the way it is done. The storyline captures you and the directorship from Sean Penn is superb. I would be very surprised if Sean Penn doesn't not receive an Oscar nomination for this film as it was truely outstanding!

The film takes you down a journey to mankind's enchanting prehistory. We switch between the beauty of the wilderness and the urban and travelling life. A story of struggle with oneself, others and the beauty of that struggle. Very moving.

simply one of the best films i've seen for years!!! completely took me back and was a fascinating watch from start to finish. emile hirsch was great and sean penn's direction was excellent as well. U HAVE TO SEE THIS!

A horrible film about an emotional retard who takes from everyone he meets and never gives anything back except heartache. He's presented as some kind of free-spirited anti-establishment messiah but he's a horrible brat who abandons everything for the sake of his own ego. A nasty movie about nasty ways to treat others. Still, it's a lesson in how not to behave.

There's nothing to this film. I'm sure some of the events in the story must have been interesting to the boy going through them, but as a film it's really dull. There's no drama at all. It's the sort of film you watch early on a Sunday morning with a hangover. Not one drop of excitement to be squeezed from the film, sadly.

Dont bother. So boring I feel asleep - nothing happens!

In terms of magical moments in cinema this film is up there near the top of my favourites list because of the stunning cinematography, sublime soundtrack and outstanding acting but above all because it seemed to speak to me personally!!! I would love to go off and look for adventure, however I'm not as angry as Chris was, so I couldn't leave my life and family behind as easily as he seemed to! Yes he may have been naive and stubborn, but he was young and idealistic, so I can fully understand his desire to do what he did. He was looking for adventure and meaning, which I believe he found at all the places he visited and crazy characters he met. It's just heartbreaking he never made it back home, once he'd learnt to let go of his resentment and that he'd only be happy when he had people to share it with. If nothing else this film should inspire us to do what we really want and live each day as if it were our last.....perhaps with a few folk to tag along for the ride!!! I can't recommend this film highly enough and urge everyone to watch it and be moved by this young mans journey!!! RIP Christopher McCandless a.k.a Alexander Supertramp.

Got this out after reading some good reviews here; have to ask if these people watched the same film as me! Got so boring I almost switched off but kept it running in the hope it would improve, it didn't. If you want to waste 2 hours of your life then watch this.

Very dissapointed with this movie. Typical american-gringo style, he does all what he does because of his family hang ups, things that are totally ordinary which you may find in many families in our current society. Forget about all the deep, superb, incredible, etc because this movie is simply disgusting!! The life of an unadapted teenager-young man who does not know anything about life or suffering or anything. DO NOT waste your time!! A complete waste such as the life of this guy.

I can't believe this film got the reviews it did when it came out! I was looking forward to it, having recently rented a couple of duffers, so sat down to it straight away. What a selfish, self-absorbed, unsympathetic person he was - frankly he didn't die nearly soon enough in movie terms (I am sorry that he died in real life in such a way, poor thing) and instead we had to endure dull cinematography and a complete lack of self development - I really couldn't see the point of the movie at all. It is rare that I feel that I have wasted 2 hours of my life watching a movie but I would have wasted 2 hours of my life watching this one if I hadn't ended up watching it on fast forward just to see it through. Don't bother!!

I just couldn't get my head around it. He's a middle class American white boy. Just completed an expensive education that would, i presume set him up in some decent career. But he has to reject all that and go off and kill himself because mummy and daddy used to fight a bit when he was a kid...... Oh, and he found out that they weren't married when he was conceived. Christ knows what he would have done if he'd have grown up in our house! I found myself wishing someone had said to him 'for crying out loud boy, grow a pair and get a life and problems of your own, you don't need to bring mummy and daddys with you, you're an adult now!'

What really made this over-grown emo brat so interesting as to merit a movie about him?

Seriously, the things some people live through without feeling the need to reject life.

This film is one of if not THE worst film I have ever seen! The story is weak pointless and a complete waste of time. A great cure for insomnia!!

Great landscape, sunset, river, really enjoyed the beautiful scenery...but FORGOT THE STORY. I know it's nice and cute and so cool to deny this materialistic society, but please change the way to say it. We got the message, don't keep repeated it every 5 min. Voice over is killing you. Here is a great tip you never saw a director doing it before that movie: when you are happy it's sunny outside, when you are sad, it's pouring rain. Clever hey?

I Have occasionally thought to myself what if i just up and left everything behind without telling any one ? No Mortgage , no stressful job and no ties. It sounds appealing but of course it would never happen . I love my children too much to do that plus i don’t have the balls to do it.
This amazing movie depicts what happens to someone when they decide to do just that and what a film it is!

Into the Wild is writer/director Sean Penn’s adaptation of the popular book by Jon Krakauer, a nonfiction account of the post-collegiate wanderings of a young Virginia man, who divorces himself from his friends, family, and possessions in search of a greater spiritual knowledge and communion with nature. Upon his 1990 graduation from Emory University in Atlanta, Christopher McCandless walks away from a loving if dysfunctional family and sends his nearly 25,000-dollar life savings to Oxfam International. Instead of the normal life his parents planned for him, Chris rechristens himself 'Alexander Supertramp' and heads west in his beaten-up automobile until it no longer runs, at which point he takes up hitchhiking. The goal on the horizon? Alaska.
These adventures include a kayak trip down dangerous rapids, a gig working in a grain mill, extended stays with a hippie couple and a kindly old widower -- and enough cold, hunger, and exhaustion to leave him emotionally defeated more than once. Meanwhile, his parents and sister haven’t received so much as a postcard from him, and begin to fear the worst.

Sean Penn has starred in some great films , Dead man walking and Mystic river are two that spring to mind immediately but to make the transition from great actor to great director is not easy yet with ' Into The Wild ' he has , despite it being very early in the directing side of his career.
This is a visually stunning film that tells an amazing story about a young man who just needed to get away from city and his family to connect with the wild . The lead is played brilliantly by Emile Hirsch . The transformation from chubby student to an emaciated scrawny man is amazing . Reminiscent of Robert Di Nero in Raging bull , only the other way round.


The way this story is told with commentary from his sister in the way of her thoughts as to why and what had happened to her brother and how it was affecting his parents is very moving . She is trying to persuade herself that he is ok and that what he is doing is in context but all the while she is not totally convinced.

The people Chris meets on his journey are fascinating and you cant help feeling envious of what he is doing .There are some great performances from Catherine Keener ( Jan ) , Kristen Stewart ( Tracy ) and Vince Vaughn ( Wayne) . It’s nice to see Vaughn playing a serious role instead of a comedic one.

There is a moment at the end where you see a photograph of the real Christopher and you cant help but feel emotional. It is very moving indeed.

Into The wild is an amazing film that is backed up by a fantastic soundtrack with haunting songs from Eddie Vedder.

Highly recommended.

9 out of 10

When I looked at the review, I thought which camp will I fall into, the Loved it ot Hated it. When it arrived I felt some trepidation about watching it. 4 stars? The dvd had 2 things going for it. (1) the ability to skip the trailers and (2) the ability to stop watching after 22 minutes. This is simply pretentious twaddle. Don't get it out. You have been warned! I know which camp I belong!!!!!

some beautiful landscapes but the story is overlong and boring

boring how can they call this a true story when he dies, it's not true it's guess work. to top that it's BORING BORING BORING

The teenage search for the meaning of life lacks momentum in its poor development of the main character. He is idealistically boring and whiny. There is beautiful scenery but the not enough to keep you going.

Based on a true story and directed by San Penn this tells the tale of Chris Mc Candless (Emile Hirsch) a grade A student who after graduating abandons his possession gives away his £24,000 savings (intended for a Yale Education) to charity and hits the road on a two year hitch hiking trip across America with the intention of ending up living in the wilds of Alaska. He has an uneasy relationship with his parents Billie (Marcia Gay Harden ) and Walt (William Hurt) and does this without their knowledge or consent leaving them distraught as to his whereabouts, his sister Carine(Jena Malone) has an idea what he's up to but even the close relationship they have doesn't allow Chris contact her. With dogged determination he embarks on his journey meeting all manner of people along the way who shape and form his opionions on life. Two hippies who are on the road in a camper van ,Wayne Westerberg (Vince Vaughan) a rougue farmer with a kick ass attitude to life, and Ron Franz ( Hal Holbrook) a US world war II veteran. He finally makes it to Alaska and finds an old deserted bus that is set up with a wood burning fire and matress etc, probably used by a hunter and it's there he digs in for his final part of his journey. There's a fair amount of narration in this movie, and flashbacks to his younger life to allow the audience to understand what has prompted him to take such mammoth trip. The performances are all excellent with Hal Holbrook giving a really tender cameo performance that drove me to tears. It's a slow moving film ,with some breath taking cinematography,superb attention to detail a top class script, a great soundtrack ,and a fascinationg performance from Emile Hirsch that intrigues you from start to finish you really want to know what makes this guy tick. It's a very moving film which throws up all sorts of questions as to the meaning and purpose of our existence on this earth. A film you have to be in the right mind set to watch, but will blow you away if you are. Would have been in my list of favourites for last year if I had managed to get around to it. Highly recommended another gem from Mr Penn

This film tells the story of a disaffected, white middle class youth who graduates from college and dispenses of his money and belongings in order to pursue an almost nomadic life. This is a very predictable and heard-it-a-million-times-before story, and I thought there must be something more to this particular tale, or that it might be told in an unique way for it to deserve such high commendation from film critics and reviewers on this website. Regretfully, the film did not , in my view, live up to these standards. Instead, it is an embarrisingly cheesy, tedious story: vaguely abusive family messes up son who rather selfishly vanishes after university, keeping no contact with his parents or sister. Interestingly, his sister, who has had the same experiences as her brother, manages to persist, like the rest of us, in the real world - a far more brave, courageous and sensitive choice than running away from everything. We are also forced to suffer her brother's 'profound' insights into life during his travels, such as: 'When you want something in life, you just gotta reach out and grab it'; 'Happiness is only real when shared'. You don't say! The film also tortures the viewer by idolising the main character, Christopher McCandless, as some sort of Guru/Oracle figure, imparting profound and inspirational advise to those he meets and, in general, just being a really 'great' guy - friend to all, free spirited, Jesus Christ himself.... The only type of person I can imagine this film might appeal to is the American, due to their possible cultural interest in going it alone/surviving in the wilderness, Pioneer style (c1800). Apart from them, no one else has an excuse to bother watching this movie.

This was terrible. Although the true life story itself merits some attention, and the life of the real Alexander Supertramp is undeniably very intriguing, this film is not - it's actually absolutely horrendous. In fact, it was total hippy sh*t, and unless you think it's cool to watch a twenty something year old dude, who looks like a hollywood rock star, spouting cliched Jim Morrison-esque quotes throughout - half of which he probably never actually said anyway - for over 2 hours, then don't watch this crap. Enough said. I am not the Lizard King.

didn't enjoy this film as it was dreadfully slow with nothing much happening

Latest offering from Sean Penn with his serious and sincere director hat on, rather than is serious and sincere actor one. In keeping with Penn’s previous work in front of the camera such as, Milk, 28 Grams and Mystic River I knew I was in for an obviously grown up film. We follow the main character, played by Emile Hirsch and his mission to drop out of society and to become fully self-sufficient in the wilds of Alaska. He gives his life savings to Oxfam, dumps his car and begins his hike northwards, obviously meeting some colour characters and learning some important survival skills and home truths along the way. All sound familiar and clichéd? Well yes, and at 140 minutes it takes a long and slow look at how Hirsch’s character escapes the daily oppression of modern life. It’s a pretty dull and lifeless affair with some pseudo profound music for added profoundness, but that’s not to say Penn hasn’t made this film with the utmost good intentions and passion. However, there is only so much one can take of teenagers dropping out of a society they know little about and hanging out with hippies, good intentions or not.

One of the loveliest, sweetest, touching and moving films I have ever seen. Great scenery, strong performances. I cannot recommend it highly enough.

If you are expecting 'graduate lawyer leaves society to go into the wild and learn to live like Grizzly Adams' this film is not it.

If you've read the book - don't bother with the film! Vast wastes of white - not easy on the eyes. The openinhg credits were impossible to read often being in pale yellow against white snow. Film was made for wide screen so only fitted in a very narrow section in the middle of our TV. Some of the opening shots were from very high above - from an aeroplane? - and the dialogue was so quiet that it was impossible to focus on action. If you want to know the story - go away and read the book!

Expected more from Sean Penn. Hated the lead character, everything about him, from the way he set light to his money to the way he told his parents to shove their gift of a new car. Gave up a great start in life to live like a tramp in the wild. Did not care if the guy got eaten by wild animals, did not watch it to the end, there are so many more enjoyable things to do, like cut the grass or watch paint dry.

Brilliant - moving - thought provoking. Everything the other fans of the film have said I would agree with. Yes you can think it was a waste of a young thoughtful man's life but in a strange way it wasn't because watching this film really sets you thinking about what you want from your life and what is important and to test the boundaries sometimes and not sink into materialism for the sake of it. Had me in tears by the end and couldn't sleep! It is amazing to come out and realise that you've been watching for 2.5 hours and yet it flashed by. think it deserves prizes/awards galore.

I kept identifying with this story because I have a son who is obsessive about mountaineering and rock climbing and survival hiking. There was some attempt to explain his compulsion to go into the wild and be alone and self-reliant, and there was some lovely footage of the wild landscape and animals. It seemed odd that he would take a gun to hunt with, not exactly turning your back on modern technology and then again it was ironic that a bus becomes his haven, but then, his its clear that his flight from 'society' is really a flight from his own emotions. A movingly tragic tale that left me genuinely sad for the pointless waste of a young life. Sean Penn's direction is not quite sure enough and the acting is not quite good enough to produce a great movie. Well worth seeing.

this one fell far from the tree................main actor is great, some OK outdoor scenes, nothing spectacular.......... main problem is plot and screenplay..... both are terminally dull, and rather pointless, from a viewers perspection...... an Oliver Stone film this is not.....had to swtich off after 1 hour, just too boring and uninteresting............

Saw the trailer for this and thought must watch it but I have to say that the trailer turned out to be far more entertaining than watching the whole film!

Have you ever had the urge just to jack everything in and find some secluded part of nowhere to live simply and be completely alone? Maybe you’ve fantasised about being shipwrecked on a desert island or possibly you like the idea about living in the woods or some empty valley, relying on nothing but your wits and instinct and surviving on whatever you can catch or forage. Perhaps few have; at the end of the day there is an overwhelming part of all of us that fears being lonely or isolated. I feel that too but I have also had a long term fantasy about living in the wild that I don’t think I’ll ever shake. And I suppose that is why I enjoyed this film so much. There are other reasons too: the imagery and cinematography are fantastic; the acting is excellent, particularly from the supporting characters that the main protagonist meets along his journey (chief amongst them Hal Holbrook’s performance as Ron); and the idea that this really happened – though an ultimately sad story (don’t worry this isn’t a spoiler) – is very appealing. However, if any film I’ve watched in recent years has made me want to strike out and make changes in my pretty sedentary life then it is undisputedly Into The Wild. I have the book on order and winging its way to me as I type so I can further explore the life of Christopher McCandless and I can’t wait. For anyone who has ever had similar desires this film is a must. Just make sure you watch it alone.

Very slow but there was something magical about the film that kept me watching till the end, worth watching.

The film was very hard to get into, i probably watched about 30 mins of it in total. i just found it really slow moving and not very intresting.

I too turned this off halfway through. It never got going and was easily the most boring film i've seen. Dont waste your time.

I would have liked to have given this 4 stars, as this is a good film which i am sure that some people will appreciate. But the problem is not that Its not a particularly slow film, as its not, but rather that nothing ever really happens and there are no bits that even make you smile, never mind laugh. If you like films because you appreciate what they mean or what happens to a character then give this a try, but if you like any sort of action, comedy or scare - basically a film that incites some form of reaction from its viewers, then i wouldn't bother.

'What I did on my holidays' - with irritating 'holier than thou' platitudes thrown in for good measure. Sean Penn seems to overlook the fact that this kid simply made one big mistake.

I'd read comments about how this film had moved people etc etc. Not me. I found the whole experience utterly futile and irritating.

Was one of the most boring films I have ever seen. Switched off after half an hour. Can't imagine that I missed anything of great significance.

This film is based on a true story and if you watch it you will either be inspired by the main character, or see him as someone ultimately lacking any common sense (as I did). Emile HIrsch gives a great performance and some of the scenes are stunning to watch!The soundtrack by Eddie Vedder is also superb!If you want a thought provoking film then rent this.

Once in a while, a film comes along which is so expertly crafted, well directed and reeks of amazing performances you can't help but fall for it. Into the Wild is an easy example of this. Sean Penn has created a cinematic masterpiece, focusing on the true-life story of Chrisopher Mcandless and his partially solitary journey to Alaska, for full freedom of the mind and body. Penn has steeped the film in breathtaking cinematography, giving some of the most picture-esque and breathtaking shots i've seen in a film, i couldnt help but pause and marvel; soaking up its beauty. At the centre is Emile Hirsch's performance as Christopher (or 'Supertramp') which makes the film what it is. He brings a whole new approach to acting; becoming the character and experiencing exactly what the character is going through. He is a likeable protagonist and an oscar nomination wouldnt have gone a miss. Supporting Actors from the likes of Vince Vaughn, Catherine Keener and Hal Halbrook boost the ability of the Into the Wild to completely take a hold on your emotions. The film is coupled with a pleasurable soundtrack by Eddie Vedder, which adds to the whole genuine importance of the narrative. I bought the soundtrack immediately after viewing it. It seems like im going on a bit, but Into the Wild is one of those rare films which demand a visceral reaction from its audience, offering a very life-affirming experience while at the same time asking many questions about your own existence. I thank Sean Penn for creating a supremely enjoyable and inspirational depiction of a truly emotional story, which is both superior in approach and direction as it is entertaining. Could'nt recommend highly enough.

Rich kid has problems with his parents and decides that as a smug, know nothing twenty something he should go off and find himself and give lessons in life and literature to the people he meets. Spouting profound insights like 'why cannot we all just get along?', I am surpirsed he only got one good kicking during his travels. If you want to be preached at by an immature, self obsessed dullard who has read some literature but fails to understand it, then check out this movie. The scenary cannot obscure the premise that we are supposed to lionise a character who is smug, whining and lacks self knowledge.

If you ever need a film to put you to sleep this is the film for you! Terrible script.

A film that really makes you think. Great story, beautifully filmed. Worth watching, but it probably wont be what your expecting. Films based on true stories never are.

Turned it off at about 10 mins into film, embarrasingly bad film!

A deeply profound film. Beautifully filmed, directed, acted, and scored, there are few films which have had such an impact on me. It uses an unlikely story (based on the true and tragic story of Christopher McCandless) to demonstrate the importance of human relationships and our interdependence upon one another, contrasted with the unfortunate emphasis Western society places on certain individual relationships. Despite his turbulent upbringing, Christopher McCandless had ample opportunity to have the relationships he needed with others - and it took a misguided solitude for him to realise that.

This is an astonishingly beautiful film which I was wary of watching because I enjoyed the book so much.. Emile Hirsch plays Christopher McCandless perfectly, and the aching naivity with which he pursues his dream is as real in the film as the book.. I recommend this film, give it 5 stars and wish I'd known the real Chris...

One mans quest in throwing the shackles of life to the laws of nature ends in however you, the audience, takes from it. I confess that I only rented this film due to being a fan of Eddie Vedder (Golden globe soundtrack winner for this very film) but was awarded with A powerful protrayal of a story based on facts that delivers in the most fulfilling way.

This is a guy's film. Without meaning to exclude women, I think this appeals to men because of the going back to 'caveman' times, the man who disappears and 'communes with nature'. What disturbed me most about this film is the utter selfishness of the main character. He disappears without a trace, seemingly justified because he doesn't like his parents. His sister narrates the film, and we see a picture of the real man who disappeared at the very end of the film. It is telling that my partner loved the film, as did my sister's partner. I have yet to meet a woman who enjoyed the film, but do not dispute the fact that there may indeed be one out there, perhaps Alaska?

We were told this was a fantastic film and therefore had great expectations. I can see why some people can love that film as it is an emotional journey based on a true story and it makes you reflect on the meaning of life and happiness. However I think you have to be in the mood for it and we were not which made watching it seems long and depressing at times. The acting is good and the music is spot on but we did not find the film as mind-blowing as we expected.

This is just such a slow film that i couln't keep my eyes open to watch it!

This is awonderful film. An amazing story, great production, brilliant acting and mind-blowing cinematography. All I can say is that it is one of my all-time favourites.

Who has not yearned to experience feeling completely free, yet dared not take the risk - unlike Christopher McCandless or 'Alex' who goes deeper and deeper into the wild, in every sense, until he finally discovers that the extraordinary freedom and beauty he finds is meaningless unless shared with others, but - dreadfully - it is too late. Many things stand out in this film including the geography but also the kindness and love that 'Alex' meets in complete strangers on his journey, whose lives he touches as he passes through.
Beautifully acted and filmed. A true story and a courageous gift by Christopher's family. On one level an easy film to watch and enjoy - but if you're open to it, on another level, profoundly moving and challenging.

Awesome, awesome film, beautifully shot. Really thought provoking as well. Despite the fact a lot of the film is just this guy on his lonesome, it is more entertaining and powerful than most movies you are likely to see. Hirsch is a cool actor

I loved that movie. Its deep, very moving, brilliantly filmed. Great cast, amazing landscapes. It makes you think about your own life and human relationships in general One of the best films I've ever watched, Brillant!!!

If you liked Brokeback Mountain, you'll love this. Its a bit of a slow start, but stick with it. The film is beautifully directed, tender and thought provoking. It's rare to find a film that really moves you, but this one manages it. Emile Hirsch is just brilliant, and utterly believeble, as are all the supporting actors. If you don't watch this film, you are missing out on a real treat.

Into the Wild is a long film. It is about a young man's journey from graduate to independent man, and you feel like you go on the journey with him. Prepare to settle down for a novel of a film. After graduating Chris abandons his identity and creates a new persona for himself - Alexander Supertramp. He sets off to live the tramp lifestyle and journeys around the country, hitchhiking as he goes. He meets many lovely people who show him different aspects of life, and along the way Chris/ Alex teaches them some simple truths too. His character is an escapist, looking for the purity of complete isolation. He places his hopes and dreams in one selfish wish - to go to Alaska and live wild. Each of the people he meets along the way are remembered as he struggles to live his dream through the things they taught him and the gifts they gave. This film is not one for people who like instant satisfaction. Like Chris/ Alex, you have to hang on in there. If you do, you will be rewarded with the freshest breath of air that a DVD can deliver.

I rented this film not really knowing much about it, wasnt at all what I expected. Everything about this film is very well done, the scenery, the soundtrack and the casting. I was so moved by it, even more so by the final shot of the real chris or 'alex supertramp'. a definte must see!!

Worst film ever, had to turn the film off half way through

This is not a story driven film, it is character driven, and at no point did my attention drift. I really cared about the protagonist and followed every minute with eyes glued to the screen. It was very touching and some of it I could hardly bare to watch, but not in a negative way, it was compelling. This is one of the best films I have ever seen, and very memorable. For a week after i saw it I was still replaying moments from the film in my head. At the end of the film I was shocked to find out it was based on a true story. If you need a breath of fresh air from rom coms and action thrillers, then this is perfect. I really would recommend this film, it is very powerful.

I only saw the first 15 min before the DVD stopped working

Strange how so many reviews of this film characterise the hero as selfish and inconsiderate of his family and friends. This, to me, seems a chronic misunderstanding of the whole point of the story. This film, and the wonderful book that inspired it is about living an authentic life. It's about courage and dedication and the rejection of a society based on finding meaning through material possessions. This is an important and beautiful film with an timely message that it delivers without ever being pious or worthy which I acknowledge this review is in serious danger of becoming.

After half an hour of this overblown outdoorsy nonsense my jaw was about scraping along the floor at its sheer pretension, lack of imagination and ineptitude... like some kind of first-year film school project from a bunch of frat boys who've watched Deliverance, Southern Comfort and a few other suspenseful classics about unhappy campers. Is this Penn's first attempt as a director? If so I hope it's his last

'Into the Wild' is worth watching for the soundtrack and cinematography alone. Eddie Vedder's haunting vocals are a perfect match for the tone of the film. Similarly, the camerawork elegantly captures the rugged beauty of the primary locations. This really is a gorgeous movie to watch. Originally from the Seattle area I saw the real Chris McCandless story break/develop in the local news, so I experienced an 'aha' moment as I realized what this film was about. At the time I thought Chris to be reckless; in watching this film I added selfish to my opinion. Assuming the screenplay accurately captures the thoughts and experiences surrounding the events, it seems the supporting characters share this opinion, although they're simultaneously taken with his charm and in awe of his focussed pursuits. Sean Penn does a great job in placing the characters in this story - his interweaving past and present keeps the viewer alert and interested throughout the 2+ hour runtime. I never got the feeling Chris knew what he was after in his quest, and the spiritual dialogue approached a parody of the 'summer of love' at points. This may well reflect how it really was, I don't know, but for me it was a bit of a distraction. The scenery and soundtrack, though, overwhelmed any distraction I found in the characters.

I wasn't expecting much from this film, but it blew me away in the end. The story is really engaging and builds interest. I would recommend it to any adult

Absolutely fantastic, engrossed from start to finish

A fantastic story about one man going against the norm in order to find himself in the wilderness. One can relate, all too much, to the issues being discussed and the moral of the story hits so close to home it brings up a variety of emotions. Well acted and narrated to keep action and intensity up. Everyone should see this film.

A good movie for those who like life changing trips and experiences... a bold life lived differently until... the dreamer finds his limits... based on a true story

A stunningly beautiful film,very moving

Breathtaking scenery, superb narrative, brillant acting and true to the book. Waited years to see this film and it was well worth the wait. One of my favourite books and now one of my favourite films. Well done Sean Penn.

a very good film i would recommend to others to watch

BEEN WAITING FOR THIS FOR WEEKS AND IT WAS'NT AS GOOD AS I THOUGHT IT WAS GOING TO BE. VERY SLOW BUT INTERESTING, DIDNT KNOW IT WAS A TRUE STORY TILL THE END. MORE LIKE A DOCUMENTARY THAN FILM.

This is a beautiful film, beautifully shot and beautifully told. The landscapes are stunning and the story is moving and engaging. My favourite film of the year so far.

Beautiful scenery and an interesting story. Well worth watching.

Into The Wild skirts interesting questions about personal freedom, nature and society. Ultimately though it is a two dimensional portrait of an anti-hero rather than a complex character study. The film over reaches as Sean Penn points his camera at the wilderness but never really engages with it. The screenplay is heavy handed and sentimental, in particular the sister's narration which is cloyingly introspective and irritating. What might have seemed a profound personal journey simply becomes an exercise in spoilt teenage angst. The precocious central protagonists wouldn't be out of place in an episode of Dawson's Creek, which is disturbing, given the fact that this film is a biopic adapted from a more measured and eloquent novel.

Too slow & plodding, over wordy. Good aspirational message but lost in translation !

Wonderful film, fantastic scenic views and a very moving story. Had me blubbing like a baby at the last shot.

great movie, great soundtrack, great story, great adaptation.

I would recommend this film I totally enjoyed it. It makes you realise just how people take their lives for granted, this guy just grapped the bull by the horn's and just went and did it, the people he meets along the way are amazing, it makes you question whether your happy doing run of the mill stuff and to try and do something different.

I had a feeling i would enjoy this film. Its a very moving film with great depth, a great cast, soundtrack and an amazing story. I can't recommend this enough, i really enjoyed it. Plus, the photography is absolutely stunning, makes you want to go on a american road trip. Buy this, don't rent it, you'll want to watch it again!

excellent from start to finish ,superb scenery

Interesting movie, good scenery

It's been a few months since I rented this film but I can't forget it so I felt compelled to recommend it. It's the story of a young man who has a really unique take on life and puts his craving for freedom and adventure in front of conventional life-goals such as education. The scenery is beautiful, the people he meets along the way are lovely and you really feel you get a taste of the life he loves so much. The best thing about the movie is that you aren't being forced to agree that what he's doing is the right thing and to be admired, but the viewer feels free to make up their own mind about whether his choices are tragic or admirable. However you are ultimately left to feel that it's a heart-warming and thought-provoking movie. A must-see if you're looking for something a bit different.

Cut the waffle, this is a really well directed film which makes you think. Awesome.

I loved the whole idea of this film, it is based on a true story too which makes it even more enjoyable. It is based on what some people probably feel like doing sometimes and that is to just go, give up everything and leave. It's great to see the characters he meets on the way and the friendships he strikes up and shows that there is still humanity in this crazy world. The ending did leave me feeling sad but wow what experiences he had and the wonderful things he saw!

Very dissapointing. Really gave it a go but could not watch to the end. Bored!!

I don't like to criticise other peoples taste but I loved this film from start to finish. It is a fantastic character tale from all over the states. Almost every character is believable and likeable and the main performance is quite stunning. It would have been very easy for him to come across as a really annoying self righteous sob but he pulls it off. Wonderfully written and acted.

I only rented this movie as I'd seen a picture of the lead character Emile Hirsch and thought he was good-looking. So receiving it in the post I had absolutely no idea what to expect as I hadn't even read the synopsis. Anyway, at the beginning I thought it was a bit slow starting and had no idea what was going on, you could quite easily switch it off quickly. But keeping at it, I'm grateful I did. It's about the courage of your convictions story, to believe there is something else out there that is going to make you believe in life again and to live it how you want to. I found it impacted me deeply by the end, that what he wanted and needed all the time was what he already had, the love of his family and happiness. There's love all around him as he makes new friends along the way and whilst I cringed thinking any moment something really bad was going to happen to him - I was enthralled that human nature still prevails in all it's beauty. When Alexander Supertramp comes to the conclusion thatlife is about love and happiness and tries to make it home, it really makes you realise how breath taking his journey actually was. That he travelled so many miles to get to the sanctuary he felt he needed to come to terms with life. The ending was the ultimate sacrifice and I honestly felt I'd lived his life with him. To find out also that it was a true story also made it more appealing and beautiful to me. I think this is a film for everyone who feels lost, abandoned and lonely, to see that people will reach out to you in their different ways and that life is for sharing, caring and love. This film is definitely not going to be to everyone's taste, but its made me sit and appreciate the life I have and want to take a big slice of life with me. To truly live like Christopher Johnson Mccandless.

In my opinion, its a great movie,because this movie shows everybody in the world that money is not evething and that we can do alot and beautiful things without money.....

One of the best films ever. No special effects, amazing stunts or twisty story lines. Just a film to make you appreciate life a bit more.

... cos this film is pretty deep... Good film. RIP Christopher McCandless.

I have been reading through the reviews of this film and it seems you either love it or hate it. It a marmite film. I personally hated it. The main character was so utterly unlikeable that i actually had to turn it off after about an hour. I kept waiting for him to change and become less of an arrogant pretentious t0sser but he kept coming out with these quotes like the a-z of English Literature. His sister was little better. It was like watching Dawsons Creek in Alaska. I have read a book called into the Wild. A true story where a man from Scotland goes and lives through a winter in Alaska and from what is told in that book there is no way you could survive in a bus for more than two minutes - the cold would kill you. I suggest if you want to learn about survival and the beauty of Alaska read that and don't watch this film. Really i wish someone would tell me what was good about this film? The story was ridiculously unrealistic and the characters were prats... Whats to like? the scenery... yes the sceney was nice. But I could have watched a documentary about Alaska and North America seen the same stuff and not been so aggravated.

highly recommended and lovely scenery - would watch again.

The material that makes up this film is really rather thin. But i still prefer Herzog doing this kind of stuff than the more operatic work with Klaus Kinski. I enjoyed Grizzly Man, and this is in the same vein. Nice pictures of North America, competent performance, memorable story.

I think you have to be in the right frame of mind for this film. I didn't read too much of what it was about or what to expect and it almost destroyed me for the weekend - I couldn't get over it. However it is a brilliant peice of film making the end just shocked me a bit although everyone else I spoke to thought it was obvious. The scenery, the acting, the setting and the fact it was based on a true story was sheer brilliant and the story told like a sad brilliant poem! the ultimate tragedy. don't know how else to describe it.

For those of you that have read the book, you will enjoy this movie. For everyone else, don't expect action from start to finish, because there really isn't any. This is a film dedicated to a brave young man, who one day decided to pack up and embark on the journey of a lifetime. Stunning scenery throughout and a lovely soundtrack. Great movie.

Beautiful shots, heartfelt story, could have been a remarkable film but burdened by heavy handed, dripping shmaltziness.

Loved this film although it did upset me particularly as a true story. Well worth seeing although not if you ever had any plans to up and live as hippy as probally make you think again.

We only got 30mins in and had to turn it off!

very good film no doubt about it! it is a bit slow in places but stick with it, it is just a well told story!

Very good...I won't spoil it.....go rent it!!!

Very enjoyable. Lovely scenery. All set at a nice pace.

If you liked the emotional journey that Castaway brought us then you'll like this. I hated Castaway, and I hated this. Youn g lad goes on a voyage of self discovery over 2.5 hours of film, zipping back into his life before he decided to live in he wild and examining (not interestingly so) the reasons why. Arty farty nonsense.

Sean Penn leaves film school Young boy leaves home for Alaska Both sadly not killed by bears.

... But the getting there that's important. While Christopher McCandless was surely a selfish, self absorbed and naive young man, he also had this incredible journey that bought him into contact with a myriad of great and real characters. What some reviewers haven't acknowledged or maybe remain unaware of is that this is a real story acted impeccably by Emile Hirsch with outstanding performances notably from Catherine Keener, Brian Dierker and Hal Holbrook. Sean Penn's direction and photography were particularly impressive and reminiscent of his earlier work on The Pledge. However, Penn has worked on his story-telling abilities and this film doesn't drag in the same way. The narration, camera-work and obviously Chris's own journal entries weave together a tale of love, beauty and understanding. Real-life drama opens itself up to particular scrutiny but in this tale we have seen more than a glimpse of a man who turned his back on so much to get down to what he felt was the most important thing about being human and that was life itself.

This is exactly the kind of vacuous, naval gazing nonsense you would expect a folm student to come up with. The central caracter is possibly the most irritating I have come across. Utter dross but beautifully filmed Don't waste your time

A ghastly wilderness-set story. Who needs it?

Didn't enjoy the film the story was very slow

swicthed it off half way through and went to bed! hard going

This is a mixed review. I loved the film, I was gripped from the start, the story was compelling and the fact that it was true made it all the more heart felt. I knew very little of the story and was moved to tears as it reached its conclusion. For the following few days I have dwelt on the story and have in fact ordered the book to gain more! On the other hand, my husband watched the film with me and absolutely hated it, thought it was long and tedious

Total rubbish. Didn't even finish watching it. It's about a spoilt son, who has a huge sense of entitlement. Get over it! is what I would say to him.

i dont want to ruin anything about the film in this review but i want to tell you all to rent this. i looked at the box and description and didnt really feel interested but i watched it with my mate and was amazed- as good as crash! Do yourself a favour and watch it, you might even cry

There's not much I can say about this film really. It is quite slow and I was constantly waiting for something to happen. If you get into the story and can relate to him then I guess it could be enjoyable. I can't recommend this one unfortunately.

This is not the normal film I would watch. It was quite slow, but easy to follow. I usually get bored with slow films, however this film kept me watching til the end. Seem to think it was about 2 and half hours, which I didnt realise. Great scenery and well made film. I think this film with either be liked or turned off. If your into action and comedy dont bother, but if you appreciate a well made, well acted and true story, its a must watch.

I didn't watch the entire movie. I couldn't, it was too painful (and this is from someone who has had a kidney stone.) The main character is unlikeable - which is fine - but also uninteresting. At no point did I want to keep watching to answer questions like 'why?' or 'what happens next?'. The story is unbelievable (would he have really survived in Alaska without specialist gear?) The screenplay is dull. The movie tries and fails to be profound. The 'analysis' style (ha ha), introspection and general art-house feel serves only to show that there was a subject here that could have been interesting (man's journey of self-discovery / mans challenge against the elements etc) The only positive thing I can say is that some people seem to like this movie, so maybe you will too. The scenery is of course something special, but is spoiled by being in this movie. If you are interested in this movie because of the scenery, you may be better off watching a documentary about Alaska. If you are interested in the idea of one man surviving in the wilderness, Ray Mears is your man.

Based on a true story, I had already been aware of Chris McCandless' voyage and the outcome, I was aware of how the film would have to end, and therefore one line towards the end has me in tears every time I watch, if you've seen it you'll know which one... between the characters Chris and Ron (Hirsh and Holbrook). The scenes between these two were touching, emotional and heartbreaking, incredible acting with a great supporting cast. Filmed on location, as a fan of Alaska I couldn't have been more pleased, it takes my breath away. To really appreciate this film it really has to be watched all the way through, stick with it and you will be rewarded. Oh and I almost forgot, the soundtrack performed by Eddie Vedder is perfect.

I feel this film never got started. Not my thing and I was bored rigid throughout. If it's a choice between living like he did or this - I chose this anytime, at least stuff happens in this world.

The people who rated this film therfore encouraging me to rent it must have watched a diffferent film and mixed their reviews up. Absolute rubbish, good cinematography but absolutely no story and anyway how did they know what happened to him. Just like Perfect Storm most of this 'true' story must have been made up as the author didn't make it out. Waste of a life and a waste of a Saturday night!

I had to switch this film off half way through, slow, dull script, the only thing going for it is some of scenery shots. My vote is don't bother go do something more fulfilling with your time like chewing concrete instead.

super boring movie. dont understand how this can have been nominated for oskars

Not to my tast. Found it to slow, boring even.

Then you'll love this one.

Turned off less than half way through as it was really boring

had to turn this film off because it made me feel sick.. pretentious and very sweet

too long very slow and no story line

I know it's a true story but it was so long and depressing!

I gather some people feel the guy was an idiot, i don't, i was taken by his passion. So i ultimately loved this film. Sean Penn directs it brilliantly, it moves at just the right pace, the photography is stunning, the soundtrack by Eddie Vedder is awesome.If u like a road movie with charm you'll love this (i hope).

I had read several reviews and thought I'd watch it and make my own mind up. I'm glad I did. If you give up after 20 minutes (which I could have done) you'll be left thinking its a film based on arty words and beautiful landscape shots BUT if you stick with it, you'll be rewarded with a story that will stay with you forever. It opens with poetry - written on the screen and read out loud... the relevance of which becomes apparent after a little while. The film eventually comes full circle and is both amusing and touching along the way. Probably more suited to people who appreciate wild open spaces rather than bustling cities and definitely one for anyone with a secret (or open) leaning towards the hippy lifestyle. My advice - make your own mind up, but give it a fair chance to weave its magic.

This film is about a spoiled 20-something year old that thinks he has problems in life when in actual fact he is simply a moron. His parent’s trivial domestic conflicts cause him to completely go awol and embark on the most ridiculous journey of shallow self discovery imaginable. I suppose if you were as dumb and self absorbed as he was portrayed in the film self discovery would be fairly shallow due to the lack of any depth of his character. This film is cringe worthy and as a Pearl Jam lover I was distressed by the score provided by front man Ed Vedder. I hate to lose respect for personal heroes. The most ludicrous moments in the film are as follows: 1. McCandless does not want to be photographed in front of a car his father has proudly bought. Why? Because it is to him a disgraceful symbol of capitalism and a distraction hiding the preposterously unexciting secrets about his parents' marriage. 2. McCandless gives all of his money to Oxfam, starts heading towards Alaska and in a moment of true rebellion (a supposedly symbolic and impacting moment in the film) empties the remaining money from his wallet and burns it in a pile before setting off again on foot. Moments later he gets a job on a farm to save up enough money to buy a rifle. Is this not the dumbest thing ever? Perhaps I am confused and the burning scene happened pre the farm work scene? If that is the case then disregard this point. However, why then did he even need a rifle? Surely a firearm is high up on the list of non-socialist power symbols? Should he have not fashioned a spear from a branch and hunted like a true wild man if he believed so much in returning to the wild? And why live in a rusty bus rather than a cave? Probably because it provided him with the capitalist home comforts he despised so much but eventually discovered he could not live without. 3. Finally the very act of going into the wild without someone else is fairly stupid. Would it not be better to take a like-minded female on his journey? A true return to the wild would involve procreation of some form? Unless he was a misery of a person that just hated people? I am sorry that McCandless ended up the way he did. But anyone that decides they are going to head out into the wild without anyone and without any gained foraging knowledge from their ancestors is bound to end up suffering a similar fate. His last words must have been 'I want my Mummy!' This film is a hypocritical nightmare. Do not watch it unless you wish to be annoyed and like vomiting at self-righteous close-minded nonsense.

Really confusing to watch, very slow film different to what i thought it would be from seeing the trailer. Shame Really...

Not sure about this one. If you have nothing better to do then maybe. Not my kinda thing though.

Managed to watch it for 15minutes....yawn!

Not for me, turned off after 30 mins

I'm sorry- everyone I know loved this film- but I HATED it!!!! every second was torture, it was so god awful! ugh, one to avoid unless you like american films that are drippy and up their own backsides. I did find the ending rather sad and touching though, and Vince Vaughn was good, but other than that- what a waste of 2 hrs!!!!!

What a moving film. I had great compassion upon the main character esp when I found out it was a true story BUT it lacked that 'je ne sais quoi'. Probably didn't help that I was told by my brother that the film would change my life - maybe he meant I would become depressed. Watch 'The Bucket List' if you want to change your perspective on life! Enjoy the film - I'm absolutely sure many people will !!!

This is a story that builds to a heart-breaking climax. The soundtrack helps to tell the story and is beautiful. This film will make you think and the story of Alexander will stay with me for a very long time. Sean Penn the director totally rocks.

I found the charachters and plot to be very believable. Although it is a long film it is well worth the journey. I recommend this film to anyone with a wanderlust.

I had high hopes for this film & it was interesting. The main guy gives up an aspiring career & all his possessions to go off into the wild. He did meet sum interesting people on the way but ultimately its a very sad story & a really sad ending!!

Too long, and consequently slow in places. However, Penn brings together a collection of the some of the most amazing images I have ever seen on film. It switches from lavish landscapes to documentary style images and everything in between. An absolute feast for the eyes, especially when the story goes walkabout. I didn't recall until about two thirds of the way through that this was based on a true story, making the final third all the more disturbing.

The trailer for this movie with beautiful scenes inspired me to rent this movie, but I felt pretty disappointed after watching it for 1/2 hours. It is absolutely depressing.... I have given it 2 stars just for the beautiful alaskan scenes I had seen during the trailer.

.........u r willing this rubbish just to end.... when people say great shots well yeah so its still a rubbish film.

crap!! leave better off with castaway!!!

Turned film off half way through

Pretentious crap with nice scenery and wildlife.This guy thinks he's a cool rebel rejecting materialism and society but actually he's just an annoying middle class prat.Couldn't stand to watch more than 40 mins so it may have improved after that.

I had great hopes for this film and it started well, only to drag on and on with the odd flashback scene which interrupted the flow a little. Some lovely naturistic views/interesting people u meet along the way stuff, but generally pretty dull. Disappointed!

I feelel that this film should have only been viewed by the family and friends on those involved in this true life film as I found it to be dark and slightly disturbing. Not a pleasant evening's viewing!

Disc gave up halfway through and I didn't care. Boring, and I hated the main character. Interesting idea, but hard to sympathise.

The best fim I have watched in ages

i didnt evern watch it, i could tell it was a wast of time...

I hated this film. I never like to turn films off as sometimes twists can improve the plot, but this was truly terrible. If it wasnt for a couple of Guy Ritchie films this would be the worst I have ever seen.

Throughly enjoyed this film. Not sure what the person was watching who said it was rubbish as it is far from that! Great story about leaving behind material things and living on his wits and fending for himself. Plus all the characters he meets along the way. If you like Big Brother and it's ilk don't watch this as you are too shallow to appreciate it. If you don't watch those programs then I am sure like me this will be right up your street. This is a true story and all the better for it.

Takes a while to get somewhere where ever that was!!!!. Not bad in places.

Not exactly my kind of movie. Not a lot of action in it, quite slow pacing movie. After an hour or so my interest had almost completly vanished. A quick google search made me curious about the end of the movie but that was it.

Nothing much to it, didn't get past first twenty minutes I'm afraid..

More and more these days, I am becoming aware of film makers opting for a chosen story rather than putting anything of themselves into the film making process. How many times do have to hear myself saying 'What a great idea for a film but it sucked'? With the book by Jon Krakauer to transfer to the big screen you'd think Sean Penn was onto a sure fire success. How wrong can you be? And who on earth cast Emile Hirsch and Vince Vaughn? I so wanted to love this film but Hirsch is so uninspiring and verging on irritating that I got half way through and ceased to care. When he gets thrown from the train and clubbed and beaten by the redneck dude I actually found myself cheering for the train company. There is lovely cameo by Hal Holbrook towards the end but as he stated to Harry Callahan all those years ago-'A man's gotta know his limitations.' Nobody in this film seems to know theirs. With insipid, jaw droppingly twee, sugary sweet and not at all well written co narration by Jena Malone plus Eddy Vedder popping up to mumble and growl his way through the deathly dull soundtrack every ten minutes I found myself gazing into the fish tank for a bit of inspiration. Oh yeah! and where did they dig William Hurt from? That scene at the end where he collapses to his knees is nothing short of comical. Pretentious is an understatement. All in all, a huge, overly long, spiritless waste of a tremendously, moving and thought provoking story. Next!

one of the best and saddest true stories Ive ever seen, with brilliant acting and an amazing story this is an emotional and touching true biography. 10/10

We turned this off to watch the news, not a great recommendation. The main character was such a bore, and I couldnt care that he got lost in the wild, he shouldnt have gone into it in the first place.

An unusual film based on a true story. I did not know the story before I saw the film, so the ending was a surprise to me.

This film is quite slow and initially I wasn't sure it was for me, but it does gather momentum and soon becomes compelling watching. I didn't realise it was based on a true story until the very end which made what you had watched all the more poignant. There are very few films where I watch the credits go up at the end, but I couldn't move once this one had finished. A definate watch.

This is a brilliant piece of work and makes you appreciate life from a different prospective. At this moment I am looking at my own life and comparing it to this film and wish I had the guts to do what the main character did in this film. Very emotional and believable acting all round. I would recommend this film!!

You may ask this question yourself after finishing this movie. I'm not that strong i'm afraid. It's breaking your heart and you are praying for him after a while. Movie itself would have been a tad shorter. Overall, heartbreaking story, music and landscapes it's worth to watch it.

this is an excellent movie.really worth watching.the fact it is based on a true story makes it amazing.

I was very excited by the reviews of other Lovefilm members this film had recieved. Despite it being based on a true story I found the film very slow, dull and pointless. I just didnt get it, by the end of the film I just wanted to spoon my brain out and kick it across the room.

A quite exceptional piece of filmmaking - theres really not much more to add , but prepare to be moved deeply .

I was really pleasantly surprised by this film. I don't even remember how it got on my list but wow, what a film. Great style, photography, characters and story. It's a long journey (pushing 3 hours I think) but one well worth taking.

Simply one of the best movies ever made!!

I really enjoyed this film anjd as its based on a true story it was more enjoyable The charachters acting etc was great and the story was excellent well worth the watch

I was very excited about watching this film after reading the great reviews from other Lovefilm members. However, I have to totally agree with the other 'hate it' reviewer, the film was just sooo boring, I was waiting for it to get going, and it never did. I know its based on a ture story so was not gonna be filled with guns and explosions, but I just could not careless about the main character....he just got on my tits quite frankly!!!!...annoying rich kid!! My friend actually rang me at the weekend to say he had just watched this film and how much he loved it....so who knows, watch it and see what you think.

An adventure, an exercise in belief, a man's journey through life or escape from it ....you decide . It's beuatifully filmed, well acted and enthralling a story as you'll ever see ....and you'll still find yourself asking why at the end.

Superb direction, excellent script, wonderful soundtrack… involving and truly moving. Avoid if you prefer mindless action movies to cinema with depth. One of the best films in many a year.

There are few films that make me re-evaluated things but this film has blown me away, literally. Performances, direction amazing. Well written and the real events strung together perfectly making this film not a film but a living moral. A message in real context. This deserves more than oscars as it says too much to people. Utterly amazing. Drawn into the relationships the Christopher has and makes you realize every step of the way that this really happened and that there is a point to why this was made. A Film and a message that will bring a tear to your eye.

A road movie of this period of life. Insightful and sad this is most definitely not a feel-good movie but was nevertheless uplifiting. And the scenery is beautiful.

very thought provoking film shot amongst some amazing scenery; brilliantly acted and very touching; well worth a watch.

Absolutely stunning, the best film I've seen in ages. The scenery is incredible, just takes your breath away. Brilliantly acted and the fact that it's a true story makes it all the more compelling.

I was looking forward to seeing this film a lot, and maybe this is why I feel a slight sense of anti-climax, but I felt that the impact of the film was lost by Penn trying too hard to hammer home his message. I just felt that the film preached too much and, in my opinion, this got in the way somewhat. That said, I enjoyed the film on the whole and this is definitely one to watch. There are great turns by Hirsch and Catherine Keener. I would recommend anyone with a passing interest in it takes a punt and rents it. Great soundtrack too.

You'll either love it or hate it - I'm of the former group. One of the best films I've seen for months. I'll say it was almost a life changing experience watching it - in a good way!

Can you remember when you were full of energy and adventure and the world was you oyster? This film captures this. A true life story of a beautiful boy. Twenty something intellegent and adventurous he seeks knowledge of the real world by travelling through the fantastic, ever changing natural landscapes of America. He eschews capatism and pares down his possesions to only the essential. Watch it it will captivate you.

Watch this film. Rent it or buy it. Watch it alone or with friends. It is a seriously good film, and it reaches into you and holds onto your guts. Watch it; you'll never forget it. It's the kind of film where you exchange looks with a fellow viewer, but not dialogue. If I'd seen this film in the cinema, I'm guessing that people would still be sitting still and quiet at the end when the credits roll. Know what I mean? If you're thinking about renting this title. Stop thinking and click add, high priority. :-)

It was such a joy to watch something a little different to the main stream Hollywood rubbish. This is a well drawn out story with real feeling. You made need your tissues at hand but it is very enjoyable and challenging as well.

This is a film based on an amazing true story about a privilaged but troubled young man who breaks free from the restraints of todays society and embarks on an incredible journey through North America. He shuns civilisation and materialism and sets off all alone and penniless driven by his anger towards his parents and spurred on by his dream of reaching his final desitnation. His final destination is the severe wilderness of Alaska where he lives alone in total isolation. He is happy to live in this deserted bus with only his own thoughts for company in order to complete his journey of self knowledge. When he has achieved this challenge and decides to leave the abandoned bus, he realizes he cannot cross the river and is trapped. The harsh reality of what he has done sets in as he slowly dies of starvation. Overall its a powerful and thought provoking film which I found to be totally inspring. The fact that it actually happened makes it all the more poignant.

Really enjoyed this movie and think the main actor did a great job. It was based on a true story which made it even more interesting to me. Highly recommended viewing. It's not all laughs but definitely worth a watch.

Haven't seen a film like this for a while. A kind of terrible beauty infects the film of the boy who wanted Alaskan solitude and got more than he bargained for but this is much more a rites of passage story about the importance of human contact, even if it is fleeting. Also a keen reminder of how separated (and incapable) we have become in surviving the harsher, more unforgiving elements of the natural environment.

Absolutely fantastic, all I need from a film, a classic road movie that inspires and leaves me thinking about it. Rent this film, it will change your life!

cinematography and emotion awash in this one. either a brilliant true story about one mans adventure to find himsef OR a documentary about the worlds biggest teenage strop. doesnt matter as either way its engaging and thought provoking

A far better redition of the message that some of the best people society produces do not fall by the wayside due to an error of judgement on their part. They simply examine what society has to offer intelligently & come to the conclusion that downsides are so great that they don't want it. The problem is that mankind is now so prolific that there is nowhere left for these people to simply be.

Such a well told tale. Beautifully captured. Excellent casting. A film for those who appreciate the fine art of film making and for those who enjoy clever storylines cascading into a whole.

Sean Penn's direction is excellent, and the cinematography astounding, but nothing can make you warm to the pretentious, self obsessiveness of Chris. Leaves you with a bad taste in your mouth, and maybe it should.

I don't do reviews because most films I see honestly don't touch me, this did. Interesting that the reviews are either love it or hate it and absolutely nothing in the middle. You will either relate to this film or not. If you do then it will take you somewhere wonderful and challenging and if you don't it will leave you cold. The soundtrack is by Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam fame, I thought it stuck the whole thing together.

Another film about a young man disillusioned by modern life and disenchanted with parents. Emile Hirsh in the lead has the difficult job of holding the story as this is a very lonely portrait of a guy who hits the road to escape his past and especially his parents, to discover a greater truth within. Hirsch puts in a terrific performance losing considerable weight to portray the man starved in the wilderness. The film is excellently crafted, the cinematography is superb and the performances especially that of Hirsch and William Hurt are engaging and sympathetic. This is based on a true story of a man who sets off on an adventure into nature to discover himself, an idea that appeals to that escapist part of all of us who would like to leave their shoes on the beach and disappear. If I have a criticism of the movie at all it would be that the story over romanticised the adventure, depicting our lead more as enlightened than troubled and disfunctional. It would have been a masterful film if we had seen a more flawed character who actually had difficulty with intimacy, relationships and responsibility. The morning after viewing the film (which I very much enjoyed) I found myself more in sympathy with the parents than with the lost soul of Christopher McCandless.

This is one of the best films I've ever seen. It has an amazing story and gets you thinking about everything really. Well acted, visually it looks great and a great way to spend 2 and a half hours.

Well made and insightful/touching fillmaking by Sean Penn, combined with really top notch acting. Powerful stuff. Watch the movie then research the real story - Don't do it the other way round....

The only thing I want to add to the reviews about this film is that I couldn't understand why the main character never once contacted his family and put a stop to the pain he was putting them through by disappearing. The rest of the film and story was amazing.

Rarely see a film that captures the imagination like this one... Simple elegant and thoroughly enjoyable. Well acted and a truly outstanding soundtrack from Eddie Vedder.

Amazing film - v well acted, sad ending for a young person who wanted to get away from everyday life. enjoyed watching the film.

Absolutely amazing film, beautiful cinematography which takes you on a journey of adventure and enlightenment. Superbly acted as well. If you like uplifting, philisophical films then definitely watch this one.

Emile Hirsch skilfully plays Christopher McCandless in this true-life story of a US college graduate who abandoned a conventional life and sought understanding and personal truth by embarking upon an adventure to Alaska. Keener, Vaughn and Hurt are all thoughtfully cast in what is Sean Penn's most subtle, elegant and intimate film to date. Eddie Vedder's graceful, folksy soundtrack is reflective and introspective. The exquisite cinematography should also be mentioned with four or five genuinely astounding shots. Although pretension almost creeps in here and there, Into The Wild remains evenly severe and delicate, beautiful and profound.

As a piece of cinema this film is fantastic. The acting is great, particulary Emile Hirsch. Support performances also wonderful. Sean Penn's direction is excellent, with shot after shot being beautifully crafted. Shame I felt so frustrated with Chrisptopher McCandless. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for stepping out and finding yourself. And there's no one who wants to set up camp in the middle of Alaska more than me BUT ultimately I did feel this was a piece about someone who was ultimately selfish and self-indulgent. And don't all rush to tell me - I've missed the point! ET got it right Christopher...''Phone home!'

Easily the best film I've seen this year so far. Left a lasting impact.

I have wanted to watch this movie for a long time, having missed it at the cinema, and having watched it, I was not disappointed. The portrayal of Christopher Johnson McCandless's search to disassociate himself with society's norms and prejudices, including the need for money, is deeply engaging and Emile Hirsch deserved (not sure if he got one) an oscar nomination for his enigmatic performance. The characters notwithstanding, the other performance worthy of merit, is the american countryside; just stunning.

This is a great film, whether you see Chris/Alex as a hero or misguided kid you can't help but be immensly moved by his story. Great soundtrack too!

Didn't really know what to expect possibly another sugary sweet coming of age boy goes back packing and finds himself type movie but...this actually blew me away. It is directed by sean penn, with beautiful acoustic music by eddie vedder (pearl jam - ask your parents!) and an incredible but subtle performance by Emile Hirsch whos acting ability alone belies his age. He in turn is supported by the talent that is william hurt, marcia gay hadden and catherine keener, it answers as many questions as it raises about what it is to be a fulfilled human being which is all the more profound in an age obsessed with celebrity and wealth, although not necessarily similar it reminded me of the smile I was left with after watching the motorcycle diaries. Enjoy :-)

Quite sad and inspirational. Chris just doesn't seem to fit in or even want to fit in with modern society (not that I blame him) and breaks away by going to live in the wild with no possessions. It's as if he rediscovers everything (has immense pleasure out of a simple thing like an apple) by withdrawing from life in the fast lane. You can't help but feel his parents are to blame but at the end of the day we are all responsible for our own lives. Seeing the real Chris at the end helped leave a lasting impression.

It's an interesting film that combines some beautiful cinematography with a decent plot but overall I just though it was on the slow side, especailly at the start. I had a problem empathising with the main character because he's essentially quite selfish. Perhaps we're supposed to develop an understanding of him as we follow his travels but ultimately, in what is an emotional climax to the film, I just didn't really care that much. It's based on a true story which makes it better than 99% of Hollywood drivel but not the rollercoaster ride I was expecting.

Found this film went on and on. Kept waiting for it to get better but ended up turning it off because I was nodding off. Disappointed. Felt that the story not no real plot. Basically all that happens is that he leaves home after he doesn't fit in at home and sets off on his travels with no plot other than that. Boring!

the film is based on a real life event with a real person that moves to Alaska and leaves his life behind. It takes a long time to tell his life story. which is interesting and does keep you watching... nothing Big happens. and theres nothing amazing about this movie. and i must say.. it really is too long. apart from that i found it good and a nice one to just sit down and relax for the evening and watch if you got nothing else better to do!

to be a critic you have to watch the good as well as the bad......... this film started and initially I thought it was bad but as it progressed you really started to feel the emptiness in this man's life... it hooked me until the end , it was a funny kind of enjoyment, a satisfaction i suppose, I think that the direction of this film was excellent.

real life true story of one adventure in the wilderness.....

this film stays with you - especially knowing it is a true story. the characters are all very well played,sympathetic and believable . the sense of loss is for ever present as concerned elders ask ' do your parents know where you are?' The scenery in Alaska is so beautiful that you even sympathise with the madness of trying to live alone in 'the wild'

this was an excellent film

Based on a true story this film was well worth watching.Liked the scenery (Grand Canyon, Northern California and Alaska) Surprising ending.

I wanted to watch this for a while but work kept me from the filcks to see it. As it turns out, I'm kind of glad because I feel if I'd watched it then I would have just quit my job and 'into the wild' I would have gone. This film is a triumph, the beauty of an America that we dont often see. The camera work is also of a level that I havn't seen in a long long time. The story of Alexanda Supertramp is emotional and spellbinding - one I loved and would recomend to everyone. This film has heart, a great fat stoner one at that, and everyone should get on the magic bus.

I do not usually write reviews. This is the best film I have seen in a very long time, if not ever. Hope this helps. Phil

Slow but beautiful...incredible scenery, amazing character and very poignant. The use of his sister as narrator works really well. Great for a lazy Sunday evening.

Fortunately we watched this film before reading some of the reviews. The film is based on an individual situation and about a young man, not a teenager as some people suggest who only watched for 20mins. The film is not based on idiolistic situations, it is a story, based on a true story of one individuals quest, not stereotyping 'young teenage brats'. The film is extremely interesting and portray's the views of a troubled childhood but also of a character that is expanded by the words of his sister during the film. Scenery is fantastic and some screen shots really lead you into the thoughts of the individual. Sean Penn- well done. Some how, to us anyway, there was an air of mystic river!! For those who want action in the wilderness surrounded by forests- not this film, you want rambo....

Ignore any poor reviews on here - they're completely missing the point of this film. Both myself and my wife loved this film, the fact that it is based on a true story makes it even more moving. The cinematography is excellent, the pacing just fine and the tone is spot on. A superb film.

exellent film - loved the way it was portrayed and as well how you felt about the main character i went from feeling sorry for him to feeling he was quite selfish espeacially towards his sister and at the end i really felt sorry for him again. Would recommend it any time.

I was a bit unsure of this film as I didnt think I was going to like it (didnt choose it myself). It started off a bit strange, 'arty' with words across the screen. However as the storyline developed, I really enjoyed the film. Even the next day we were still talking about it - very thought provoking. Excellent scenery. Highly recommended. I dont think the kids would enjoy it though!

Saw this at the cinema, which probably helped, as there are too many distractions to watch it on DVD. It's an interesting film. I think a lot of people are missing the point - Sean Penn presents the main character as a selfish, fairly unlikeable man, you're not meant to like him. It's an interesting film, but not for your popcorn, revenge-flick loving crowd. If you liked Old Joy, this is in a similar vein.

Loved this. Made me kind of hate all the crap I live my life surrounded by! My boyfriend couldn't sympathise with 'Alex' but for some reason I really, really could. Loved every minute - except the part with the poor moose! Sean Penn has come a long way since 'The Indian Runner', and thank god for that. This is a wonderful film.

Great True Story, Excellent acting and directing

I loved this. It moved me in many ways. Well acted and well told.

Read very mixed reviews about into the wild but as a big Sean Penn fan (director) I decided to give a go and was pleasantly surprised. It had me hooked from the start, no gimicks, no special effects, no sex or violence - sort of bucked the trend and even had the wife in tears. The fact that it was a true story made it all the more poignant. You won't be disappointed.

thought provoking, inspirational, sensitive and beautifully directed. it made me cry.

A strange and confused individual story with stunning cinemaphotography and the sadness of a true story.

The story of 'Chris Supertramp' and his journey into the wild is one you will not ever forget after watching this film. It is brilliantly told and is shot in what must be some of the USA's most stunning scenery. As the film unfolds you can't help but liking Chris and the series of characters he meets on his journey to Alaska. Take away what you like from this thought provoking film but I believe it has everything a great personal journey should have - inspiration, laughs, tears and tragedy. Into The Wild is an epic film and I would highly recommend it.

I didn't watch this all in one go, and maybe I won't watch it again, but that says nothing about it's quality. I found it very thought provoking and inspiring. I loved the cinematography, it really conveyed Alex's isolation on his journey. His interactions and the friendships he formed on route were fascinating, and I found the ending incredibly moving. It was definitely worth watching.

I like this movie so much i went and buy the book... I like the direction, good acting and amazing scenery. It is a sad story, that makes you question the way we live, our consumerist attitude and the sense of peace with our self and the surroundings that somehow we lost. I can see why some people didn't like it... it is slow and too utopian at times. If you are looking for a blockbuster that doesn't make you use too much you brain, don't rent it, if you are looking for a movie that makes you think and travel with your mind in beautiful places, you will love it!

weird but not to happy with myself but maybe worth a watch.

This is based on a real-life story, which makes the story very meaningful. It is hard to understand people who did not like this movie. Definitely a must-see and the soundtrack fits perfectly to the storyline too. It's about a new graduate who criticizes society in many ways and wants to find his own 'truths' about life. Therefore he takes off to a journey all by himself across America which would end in Alaska... He travels in a very minimalistic way with no money or preparation. Everything is surprise for him, a live-for-the-moment journey. Along the way, he meets people and experiences things which help him reflect himself even better. He keeps a diary along the way.. and the movie is based on his diary notes... Very very very moving movie. You SHOULD see it for yourself to decide rather than listen to what other people say.

This right of passage tale is a truely inspiring true story; this film works on every level, Sean Penn is turning out some magnificant stuff these days. All those involved deserve the accolades, I loved this film more than I'd hoped. Anybody who doesn't feel touched by this film is stone dead, they don't know anything amout anything. It's the kind of film you want to switch right back on after its finished.

Its a slow starter but you must persevere as it gets considerably better...its an amazing but tragic film....it is a moving film that keeps flashing back into my head...A must see...

Really alternative film with a plot that, while a little slow to start, draws you in to a story of a boy on a mission to cross Alaska. Enjoyed this one more than i thought

A very well made film with great acting and superb wildlife scenes. I did find it a little confusing though as it tended to have two story lines running at the same time and kept going backwards and forwards between them. A great, true life story though and I enjoyed it.

Very good indeed. If you fancy something different from a mainstream hollywood blockbuster then rent this. The fact that this is a true story makes it even more remarkable. Landscapes and scenery are truly amazing as well as the excellent soundtrack. Excellent performances from all the actors involved.

this is a beautiful film - beautifully shot and acted, with a fascinating premise - it had me glued to it all the way through and moved me emotionally.

Excellent film, although it portrays the main character as a more positive light. The book is far more critical of the main character. Great watch (and read!)

This is what it's all about. Finally a film which recognises the need to get away from demands, bills, cars, money. To get lost in the world where no-one can tell you what to do, where you can appreciate living and breathing fresh air for the first time without becoming numb to society. You can regain your soul and take control of your destiny. I watched this film, wanting a piece of what he had. A true heart rendering account of a young man who did just that. I was totally in awe. I won't spoil the end but it leaves you feeling like there is more out there, without commiting the rest of your life, living to work!!

Although this film might not be to every bodys taste, i found it literally breath taking. It made me look at just how boring and repetitive our own lives can get at times in comparison to his. My girlfriend was in tears and i myself had a lump in the back of my throat at times. By the end of the film you really care about this individual unlike many films of today, where you couldnt care less what the outcome was.

A true life changing movie that will make you think about your own situation.

I feel sad that other reviewers have only given this 1 star? How dissapointed must they be missing the point of this enthralling movie? This is an expertly crafted film by an aspiring Master director in Sean Penn, who also wrote the wonderful screenplay. Lets hope he continues to walk down the same creative road as fellow actor/director Clint Eastwood. This is all the more heartrendering because its a True story. Sublime direction and cinematography combined with awesome performances from all the cast. Special consideration and tributes to the aged & wonderfully charasmatic Hal Holbrook, with an Oscar worthy part that is truly mezmerising. I urge you to watch this movie, it will change your life! Most Highly Recommended!

This is one of the best films I've seen for a long time. All aspects of the film were excellent, and it was a moving, thought-provoking story, and strangely uplifting given the fate of the main character.

Good story, well portrayed. Enjoyable film.

This film is like a 100 metre runner running the 800 metres. It starts so well but as it hits the 2nd lap it begins to tire and by the end it's depressing to watch. Sean Penn does seem to involve himself in some somber movies. I suppose things in life do not always end happily but please this film left me too empty. That said it takes a good script and great acting to leave you in such an emotional wreck and there are some beautiful and insightful moments in this film. This one for me though will be hung out to dry with penn's involvement in other depressing films like 21 grams, the assasination of Nixon and that death row movie...point taken?

If anyone out there has every been travelling or wanted to go you should definatly watch this film. Its about one guys trip around america with no money, just a bag on his back, and the people he meets on the way. The story is based on a book and has been bought to the screen fantastically by sean penn, a must see for any (intelligent) film lover. Please don't be put off by the negative comments.

I was so disappointed by this film as I had heard so many good things about it. The problem was that it took ages to get going and was painfully slow all the way through. The very sad ending was spoilt for me as I just didn't feel sorry for the main character, it was his silly decisions that made him reach his final demise and I couldn't relate to his reasoning at all! try it if you like to think deeply and fancy a long night!

Man this film is devoid of anything but determined suicide and it takes a very long boring journey to get to the death - it stinks!

I had read the book when this film was just about to be released in the states last year and was really looking forward to seeing how Sean Penn translated the book into a script and full length movie. I wasn't disappointed. The film stays true to the book in every sense of the word and the involvement of Chris McCandless' sister in the process means that we get true depiction of why Chris became the lonely traveller that he did. The film is extremely well directed, splitting scenes between Chris' travels and his eventual final stay in the wilderness of Alaska. The scenery is awe inspiring an the acting is superb..... Emile Hirsch really comes into his own during the final scenes as Chris slowly realises the harshness of his environment, his appearance for one thing is terrifying. There's no real need to go into any detail about this film.... a true story of a young man who rejects the materialistic upbringing of his family and embarks on a journey to Alaska having dumped all of his money, possesions and transport. What follows is an extremely moving, sometimes funny and inspirational tale of freedom and one mans struggle to stay true to his ideals. Overall if you enjoyed the book then the film is a welcome addition to this heart breaking tale, if not then it is highly recommended that you rent this out. A beautiful film by all accounts.

didnt enjoy this film more like a documentary didnt realise it was a true story till near the end.

Into the Wild is based on the true story of Christopher McCandless, a young man who gives his life savings to charity and heads off away from his family to Alaska to live in the wild without money or materials that blight this world. To a certain extent our young hobo has a point, but after suffering this point being rammed home around 100 times mixed up amongst pretty, but boring, overly arty-farty screenplay you are likely to tire of this film and our lead character. Some of the scenery is lovely, amazing in-fact, and a few of the messages and beliefs worth at least a moments attention, however very little of this film is balanced with any degree of realism. One minute our silver spoon fed want to be tramp is burning money the next working for pay; we just could not understand the point in this movie. The acting is quite believable for the role but we could not feel for this character nor could we identify with most of the content. This film was not for us, its pretentious, long winded and has very little dramatic qualities or action to justify the 2 hours plus you spend watching. This movie is recommended to 100% indie road trip movie fans only, beautiful but boring and annoying. 4/10. 2 Stars

Why the Hype?!?!?!?! On the back of good reviews and a great trailer I got this DVD and was really excited to watch it. All I'll say is thank goodness I hadn't bought it or I'd be even more upset. It's a weird story and is so bizarre I don't really know what else to say. The question is could it have been better - the answer is NO, the story was rubbish so put rubbish in and you get rubbish out. Avoid, if you are curious just watch the trailer, it doesn't get any better!

What an incredible story. I didn't realise this was based on a true story. it makes the film even more fascinating. Sean Penn manages to find the most stunning settings. The scenery looks absolutely beautiful, and makes me want to explore America. Fabulous film, with a very powerful message.

This was quite enjoyable but not gripping although it did make me very emotional at the end. Worth watching.

Penn's movies frequently embrace nature as a travelogue metaphor for how minute we alll are in the great cosmic scheme of things. (The Pledge is almost like a National Geographic film) And here he doesn't pretend that nature is not meant to be centre stage. But don't let that confuse you. The great (serenely shot) open expanses of Alaska are merely a metaphor suggesting McCandless is lost and that his shangrila is actually his open prison. Which is why the flashbacks take on a progressively greater weight until the achingly beautiful relationship with the taciturn, Ron Franz (a wonderful Hal Holbrook) and the realisation immediately from us and far too late for McCandless that if sharing the journey is better than going alone - surely the same must apply for reaching the destination. The performances are uniformly excellent and Emille Hirsch strikes just the right balance of arrogance and charm. The cinematography and editing is right at the top of it's game and, even though Penn has a tendancy to sniff out one-too-many symbols, the whole is a sympathetic and life-affirming tribute to a ballsy young man who did what most of us are afraid to admit we'd like to.

This is without doubt one of the most amazing films I have every seen. The acting, cinematography and music were just brilliant. Sean Penn did a great job and I will be recommending this film to everyone. I was moved to tears and will now read the book.

Great story rubbish film I really feel this film was a big let down it had the potential to be great

its really good, that it is a true story is mind blowing.

If you've already read the book that this film was adapted from then you will find few suprises. This is not a criticism, I basically mean that it stays pretty close to the source material and very rarely if at all strays away from fact (or perceived fact). This is at once a heart warming and chilling account of an extraordinary young man's efforts to achieve his ambitions. It isn't the usual melodramatic true story fodder that you may expect either. It isn't a film full of shocks, twists and turns but much more of a character study of a basically ordinary young man who wants to live his life in a different kind of way. You feel genuine affection for the main character of Chris/Alex as he wanders around America touching various people's lives on his way to his Alaskan adventure. I had to sit and admire his resolve, determination and single mindedness in the way he lived his life. Sean Penn does a fantastic job in directing the film. I felt that at times as the viewer we are on the outside looking in but when Chris enters his solitary moments we are right there with him, in the bus, on the trail experiencing all that he experiences good and bad. A film like this is much more affective than Ray or Walk the lIne because it deals with an ordinary man choosing to live an extraordinary life. Worth watching if you like films that make you think a little!

What a load of rubbish. Do not rent this unless you want to have an extremely boring night in. I would rather go shopping with the wife than watch crap like that.

Absolutely brilliant film. Very moving true story. Well worth watching. Emile Hirsch is great as always. For someone who knew nothing about this film before viewing it, the ending was quite sad, but not all that unexpected. And that's the way it really happened - a very 'real' film.

Watched it over 2 nights as it was a bit slow but very watchable. Would not of liked to have sat through 3hrs of it at the cinema.

I've never bothered to review a film before but the powerful film, Into the Wild, motivated me to do so. One of the best films I have ever seen - powerful, thought proking, sad, beautiful.

Yes it is long, but you become lost in it and its meanings. Oh and it is a true story.

A*****

I turned this film off after about an hour. The final straw came when the 'hero' decided to canoe down some white water(i think it was the grand canyon), where he met a couple. the male partner shouted 'This is Nature man', I switched off.

This film is just awful. A uni graduate gives away 25,000 of what I assume was his parents money to Oxfam, wow what a gesture! then he goes from place to place talking utter pretentious nonsense, this film is just terrible, terrible terrible.

1 star for Eddie Vedders soundtrack...

A breath of fresh air in this time of greed and materialistic craving. If you have a low attention span I would give this film a miss as it requires you to open your mind to one man's journey into himself.

Highly recommended!!!!

"Into the Wild" is a captivating film about a young college graduate who rejects bourgeois society and becomes a sort of educated vagabond, travelling around America doing menial jobs, making friends with various oddballs and drop outs before inexplicably heading off to Alaska to live off the land alone, a decision which has tragic consequences.I could understand someone like this wanting to backpack around the country for a while before returning to friends and family and a settled urban lifestyle, but I failed to understand this character's total rejection of civilisation altogether. The film is well acted and directed, but it is plot free ,overlong and ultimately depressing.

Into the Wild is the tale of a young American, Christopher McCandless, who turns his back on society and family and sets off for Alaska in search of a purer life. Disenchanted with western lifestyle (study to get a job, work to pay the rent, buy then die) McCandless hikes into the wild hoping to discover a more productive and wholesome way of living. He donates all his money to charity and leaves without saying a word to his parents. At home he experienced violence and witnessed his mother being beaten and verbally abused by his father. It is this volatile and horrible situation coupled with his disdain of materialism which fuel his desire to flee. I suppose you could argue that in the film nothing really happens. McCandless (who changes his name to Supertramp) succeeds in getting from Virginia to Alaska, meets a few people and enjoys/endures 5 months in the wild. He has to fend for himself and it is his lack of expertise which is his ultimate downfall. Yet the film did not seem to drag at any point and by the end I had experienced a gamut of emotions. The film is thought provoking and moving. The acting is first class and at the end of the film I admit to feeling a little upset, so attached had I become to the main character. Eddie Vedder's astounding soundtrack combined with stunning shots of the Alaskan landscape help to create one of the simplest yet most memorable films in recent years.

Not easy to judge when reviews fall into 2 camps. It's great- spiritually uplifting. It sucks- boring overlong poncey tripe. Which camp will you fall into?

Both views are partially correct. The film is well acted and the scenery is wonderful. It does leave you with insights on life that make you think. "Happiness is not real if not shared". Good stuff.

However the film is too long and struggles to hold your attention. On balance wouldn't recommend it. But there's a lot worse out there.

The other reviewers tell the story. This film portrays the intensity and idealism of youth; the challenge for young people when they have to face the reality of the world we live in and in particular how difficult that is when they reject the values of their own upbringing. The film was also an affecting portrayal of the impact on children of growing up in a family where there is emotional and physical violence. Characterisation and performance were excellent. This is a film to ponder on, as the story of your own life unfolds. I will watch it again with my own teenage sons and no doubt it will create much for us to discuss and contemplate together.

I thought that this was an excellent film. It certainly stands out from the crowd.

It was not too long, and held my interest throughout. It is the kind of film that makes you think about life and admire those brave enough to take on such challenges. Very sad in the end though - quite upsetting.

You must watch it!

This is a film that requires you to sit down and concentrate. It works slowly, but at the end it is a very satisfying film full of ideas and unresolved conflicts.

Was he right to walk out on his parents? Was he selfish? Was he stupid? Or did he 'live' in the full sense.

Having been a fan of Tolstoy at the same age, I can see how you can become gripped by romantic desires and rebellion rather than buckling down to be a lawyer or local newspaper journalist. Can the pursuit of hopeless causes be redeeming? I think so. The reviews seem to be polarised which shows how the film forces you to question your own choices.

Sean Penn gives this film a strong literary input, and sometimes it feels as if it lacks action. But when you get to the end and look back, it shows the ecstasy and the great pain of taking big risks. The soundtrack is good, and the 'true story' tag means you really relate to Alexander Supertramp and his vital, but flawed, idealism.

Someone's going to have to tell me how this wrapped up because after an hour or so I couldn't stand any more. Maybe I didn't give it a fair crack of the whip, but honestly, by that time I was rocking back and forth, moaning piteously, and just had to hit eject. I really couldn't stand to look at that pious face for another minute. I'm hoping he got eaten by a bear, but I don't suppose that's likely, so I'll bet on an amazing journey of self-discovery.

Bad casting, ultimately. Jack Black would have been fantastic in the role.

We watched this DVD without really knowing where it would end up. You cannot second guess the story. Where it does end up is a surprise, and made us think we should have given the story more attention and respect. So we watched it again. Its a beautiful Film.

Thought this was a bit long winded in places , but was worth watching . The stunning scenery and great soundtrack helped things , and it was good enough to hold your interest and find out what eventually happened to the main character in the end .

This is a kind of film what you only could love or hate. It is depend on your way of live, and if you are happy with your life.

Emile Hirsch makes the film and portrays a very good depictation of what in fact is not a brilliantly entertaining topic. A watchable film but certainly doesn't leave you feeling on cloud nine by the end.

This film was very moving, if not confusing at times. The story flitted from past to present constantly and I was a little confused at times, but the Chris's story was told beautifully and it was so sad at the end.

I had been sitting on this film for a few days with no great urge to watch it and I'm so glad I did. It was one of the most moving films that I've ever seen. I enjoyed every single minute of this film and it's one I won't forget. I highly highly recommend it.

This did not work for me. A Loner who cannot stay in any place for any time and connect with others. Only worthwhile scene was with the bear! I've never used the fast forward button so much.....

My wife and I really enjoyed this film. Stunning scenery, very beautiful and nicely directed by Penn. Would recommend this film to anyone who likes good acting beautifully shot.

Annoying student hates his wealthy parents so he runs away and ends up dying in an abandoned bus because he can't tell one plant from another. Best thing that could have happened to him. Tit.

I loved this film. It took a little while to get used to the slowish pace , but then you realise that this mirrors the changing lifestyle of the main character. His search for a better way of living his life could have been yet another yawn-enducing ' finding one's self' ' story, but due to excellent acting and tight direction and screen play, this becomes a life enhancing film. The way in which his travels lead to meetings with the surrogate parents he so wanted is subtly interwoven throughout, whilst never losing sight of the fact that, although his real parents had difficulty in expressing their love for him, it was, nevertheless, always there. The scenery is beautiful, the ending sad, but you are left with the feeling that here was someone who, once he took contol of his life, was able to live it to the full .

On face value the synopsis sounds cheesy but be assured it's not. It's very well acted and the lead is very convincing as the atypical free spirit; the ending being in stark contrast with the rest of the films' optimism. The various characters' life changing experiences with the young traveller who is surely to be described as wise beyond his youth just dodge the term insipid and veer towards revelatory. A powerful story.

An honest and difficult film to watch both as a child and a parent - it shows how our actions can influence, inspire and damage one other through love and single mindedness. It was beautifully filmed and like the mark of all good art it stays in your head and images appear when your least expecting them. I hope his spirit is having a good time.........

This was an excellent film - the bad reveiws are from people who obviously prefer 'action packed blockbusters' of little or no substance. This was a deeply moving, insightful, sad and compelling true story. Things definitely happen in this film and anyone who isn't touched by it, must be a rather heart hearted person.

A very good, watchable, and absorbing film, based on a true story about a young lad who had everything, wishing to escape the modern day rat race of simply living, to surviving out in the great wilderness of Alaska... He had the bottle and the nerve to do what most of us only ever dream about...!!!

A bit of a weird film from the start to finish, it must be me I did not enjoy this one I could not get my head round it with this film flashing back and forward

To put it simply, you must watch this film...

This movie is really good but only if you are in the mood for a slow, almost documentary style film. Luckily I had a bottle of white wine on a nice summer evening and wasn't in the mood for a high-action blockbuster. The journey of 'Alexander Supertramp' is something that is best to witness as opposed to write about here but it's fair to say that it offers a funny, heart-warming and sometimes tragic walk in someone else's shoes. It's a very long film (especially with the slow pace) but I didn't really want it to end. Quite emotional, I laughed in places and welled-up a bit near the end. It's a great movie to watch with a bunch of people and then talk about it for the rest of the evening. I didn't give it 5 stars because it was very American. Not that that was a bad thing (you certainly couldn't have made that journey in the UK!) but it meant I felt like a bit of a tourist. It leaves you wondering if you would ever follow in his footsteps.

Watched it as a love film recommendation, was surprised how good it was. Thoroughly enjoyable heartwarming film.

A thought-provoking film, which we all enjoyed. Not a fast-action adventure, but a moving true story. Quite long but with fantastic scenery. Switches between times, but this isn't confusing. Too philosophical to be light entertainment.

The film footage is excellent and would have been great to see at the cinema. I had not read the book and so the ending came as a surprise. With lots of people taking gap years, it's great to see someone do it in their own back yard, but in thier own particular way.

This is a well made film. Although a little slow to get moving, imo well worth the wait. Casing point, I loved it, the wife didn't, the eldest son enjoyed it, the youngest son fell asleep! I personally found quite a few thought provoking moments in this film in what is quite a moving final storyline. Will you love it or hate it?

This film was a tour de force, a journey with a young man who had decided to beat the system and explore human nature and himself. As his story unfolds you are experiencing and feeling every moment of joy and sadness of his journey, and the very poignant ending left me speechless and numb! Bravo to the family and the sister who had the courage to tell this story.

...the best, most inspirational movie since the Motorcycle Diaries. Absolutely fantastic. Supurb Direction, Meaningful and fluid pace, with much originality, true to the travellers spirit.

Fabulous film, great perfomances, good director. I was abit worried at first as i have not liked all of penn's previous films but this one was absolutely brilliant. Based on a true story, heartbreaking at the end but well worth a watch.

Into the Wild is a very beautiful film about trying to make sense of the world that we live in. There is a great central performance and some rather lovely direction from Sean Penn. A film maybe not to see if you are on your own but one that will make you think, best summed up by the line Happiness is Shared

This movie is both beautiful and tragic. It forces you to review your own life and choices! It also makes you realise that we need come kind of civilisation and human contact.

Excellently acted film from Sean Penn which is possibly 20 mins too long. Slow burner, with excellent performance by Emilie Hersch and true story

great film well worth a watch.

I think it was brilliant, the pace was excellent, the story..especially as it is a true one, can be felt by the watcher ( well this one anyway). There were the odd moments of 'oh no is this just going to be a romantic view of the wildness - beautiful nature and animals, but no I think it avoided that...Watch it . It is on my list for all time top film

I really enjoyed this film and thought it remained faithful to the book and really brought to life the plight of this sensitive and idealistic young man. Incredibly sad, but worth watching.

Loved this film. The fact it was a true story was even more touching. After watching it, I wanted to embark on a road trip across America. I couldn't take my eyes off the television for the whole film. Some of the shots were magnificent e.g. when he was kayaking down the Colorado river. I don't want to give too much away so all I can say is watch this film. It's an emotional, passionate adventure for one man who didn't feel part of modern society.

Didn't live up to the rating or the reviews that I read about this - was really slow for me and although I stuck with it through till the end, found that I had to force myself to stay watching. Had a look on the web about the guy and found all sort of stuff written about him - the film is a load of tosh, not at all real apparently!!

Very nice film, great scenery & lovely story

Enjoyed this film lovely scenery, but the ending is very sad.

really good film, very enjoyable, well acted and very well directed, this guy had one hell of a journey, end was a bit lame though.

A bit long and a bit depressing. Could have chopped about a hour and would have been ok.

This film would have been okay if it wasnt so long. Beautifully filmed, and not bad story and parts enjoyable. However, it went on too long.

i didnt like it,sorry

This is a brilliant film, it's very long but you really do have to stick it out because it's so worth it!!!!

This is a decent movie but far too long. It's an inspiring type of film, and all the more so as its a true story. Good acting but it does drag on towards the end

Great film, beautiful to watch.

Wonderful atmospheric film. I watched it 3x so I could get every nuance and hidden meaning.

watch it...dream...start packing!!!

after reading about this chap i thought it was a good idea what he did and have often thought about leaving it all behind...but after digging a little deeper i found that this massive tw*t died of malnutrition around 20 miles from the nearest town, hardly in the wild. anyways, this film attempts to add glamour and tramp chic to a rather dull story...far too many arty shots for even the artiest of film students across the globe. DO NOT WATCH! almost as bad as 'run fat boy run'.

I am not sure what all the fuss was about for this film. I dont want to spoil the story or ending (nothing worse) but I ended up thinking 'what was the point', all very pointless and slow really.

Couldn't get past the whining narrative and the fact that this boy is probably the most self-centered person who ever lived.

I get this movie, I really do, but surely if you were going to escape to the wild you would not only increase your physical fitness as this guy did, you would also do a bit more research on the environment you were going to. Like IF the river floods how do I get back, do I travel down stream or up etc etc Also learn a bit more about your food and water supply! My husband and I spent hours over the following days realising how daft this kid was, it really was such a waste of a life....had he never heard of counsellors!

The cast is quite good, the concept is somewhat doubtful with the elements of some tedious moralizing in places. It's no masterpiece and that unfortunate young man is no hero or adventurer, just a very confused individual possibly too egocentric and suffering some mental problems. and I was not moved or touched, nor found it easy to empathise with him but just kept thinking - what a waste and more importantly - why did he have to do this?

When we first watched this my girlfriend went to bed saying it was boring. I continued to watch for a while but the film jumps around a bit and I had had too much to drink to not get lost. I settled down to watch it again the next night, the girlfriend had gone out, the kids were in bed and I watched it right through with no distractions. First off the music is great, I bought the soundtrack on ebay immediately, by Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam fame, if you love the accoustic guitar its a bit of a must to hear it. This film does flit backwards and forwards with no logical sequence, however as a psychiatrist once told me, nobody ever tells their life story in chronological order, you get snippets here and there untill the complete picture is revealed. I thought it was a beautifull film, as a Geographer I really got into the canoe scenes, and as a bit of an old hippy I loved the scenes with the commune. I totally related to the character of Alexander Supertramp, if I wasnt a family man and had Alaska nearby I think I would love to do what he did. Wont spoil it by saying anything about the ending, I love this film and I cant wait to read the book this Summer holiday.

Really great flim, do not miss it.

A magnificently enchanting although ultimately disturbing film. The scenery and silences are mesmerising. I would reccomend a view to anyone who is interested in philosophy, Kerouac style. It makes you think about the unimportance of material wealth and the beauty of nature. Highly recommend.

this is an engaging story and I found I had sympathy for the main character, his sister and their apparently disfunctional parents although that didn't seem to come across very strongly - not enough for me to understand why he cut himself off from them so completely. The scenery and the characters he meets on his way are both beautiful and interesting. It was possibly a bit longer than it needed to be but is well worth a watch

I felt this was well acted and really made you feel all the emotions that the main character was experiencing whilst out on the road and in the wild

I had never heard of this film but rented it on a recommendation and was really enthralled by the storyline. This is a wonderful film with a sad but inspiring true story beautifully acted in the gob smacking backdrop of atlanta, arizona amongst others. There are a few brief appearances by well known actors such as Vince Vaughan and Barbara Hershe but they take supporting roles to a relative unknown main actor who brought this film to life. This is a film not to be missed in my opinion, enjoy the story of Chris McCandless's life changing experience then sob yourself silly as the full tragic end to this story unfolds.

Honestly - I had to fast forward aound 1 hour of this film because it does not keep your interest and is far too long.

I really did enjoy this film, i thought it was a really well made thought provoking film. The only problem was that, instead of filling me with joy and inspiration, it made me and my life feel succinctly shallow. It did make me assess my life, my aims, my dreams, my courage to actually fulfil any of my dreams or aims. And i figured i probably wouldnt fulfil any of my dreams. That was probably just a personal reaction. So i did cry at the end. At both his death, and my life. I felt like i didnt want it to end. I wanted a happy ending for him. I think its an amazing story, and Penn just made it to its full potential. Sombre and beautiful. With amazing characters in it, played by a great cast. Particularly Vince Vaughn and Kristen Stewart. I should really buy this soon.

The film was long and I found myself wanting to forward wind it to find out what happened to him in the end as I knew it was based on a true story. I was left feeling a bit downhearted. I found it hard to understand why the real person would do what he did and take all those risks in this day and age even if he was angry and seeking adventure. It was so needless what happened to him. The acting was excellent, and the cinematography wonderful. Overall, It is a good film but long winded with a lot of it being just the lead and the wild. The actor playing the lead was excellent.

Sold to many on the score alone, a film musically endorsed by the Pearl Jam legend that is Eddie Vedder, fails to live up to expectations. The profound protagonist, Christopher McCandless, embarks on a ‘meaning of life’ expedition literally in to wild to do battle with the demons within born from a material world and a loveless upbringing. At two hours and twenty minuets there are endless life affirming statements that ultimately add up to a rather pretentious take on a self-discovery voyage. I simply wanted to shake the chap by the arms and tell him to stop being so down right silly. The film spends too much time covering the same ground to be truly compelling. However, when it does finally arrive at its climatic end it is undeniably emotional and a pouring of sympathy is well deserving. I personally only realised that this was a true story at the very end of the film. This of course makes the circumstances that McCandeless finds himself in all the more difficult to bear. A good performance from Emile Hirsch and top draw direction for Sean Penn certainly makes it worth a look in, but it for 119 minuets it does not match up to its own hype.

brilliant film, amazing scenery, great story, loved it.

excellent powerful re-telling of an idealistic young man's life and how he impacts positively on others. A touching tale without being overly sentimental or mawkish, and a brave decision by his family to allow elements of their life to be put before the public eye. Brilliant film -one of the best I have seen to date

The scenery and the way the film is shot is beautiful. I also really liked the way the other characters were portrayed. Aside from this, I found the story depressing, not thought provoking. Personally I think the main character was very selfish and could have used his intelligence to do some good. This is the kind of film i would have enjoyed watching as a teenager, and know for sure that the blokes I was friends with as a teeneager would have absolutely adored the story and the idea of going off to find oneself! Having said all this, I did enjoy watching the film at the time, even though it was too long and has made me angry and depressed!!

This is a long film and I almost gave up a couple of times but I'm glad I stuck with it. At first this story of a young man from a priveledged background who gives away all of his money and heads off to live in the wild for 2 years kind of got on my nerves. It does get a bit tedious hearing about the petty problems of the idle rich. However, if you stick with it there's more to it than that and I did find myself caring about what happened. The timeline is all over the place which could be confusing for some but it serves as a good plot device so that not all of the secrets are given away too soon. On the plus side, though, the performances are excellent. Emile Hirsch in the role of Christopher McCandless is outstanding, making for a charismatic and sympathetic lead. William Hurt and Marcia Gay Harden are solid as his parents. A nice suprise was a cameo from Vince Vaughn actually acting for a change! Naturally, with Sean Penn directing it looks fabulous - as a travel brochure for the USA it's fantastic.

I can't even remember adding this to my rental list, It just dropped through the door so I shoved it in the machine without a great deal of expectation. My goodness me, was I in for a wonderful (and somewhat shocking) surprise. This is not a fast moving movie filled with action, but it is a beautifully realised and sensitively portrayed character piece of the highest quality. Give this film the time and you will be richly rewarded.

Fantastic, thought provoking film. Highly recommend you give it a try.

Excellent film. Very moving and well acted.

Poor little rich boy goes off on big adventure. Poor little rich boy writes cliches in a diary read by poor little rich sister - what a load of tosh!!!. 1 Star for Great scenery though and I enjoyed the ending - am I sick?

Quite an extrodinary and sad film...i could imagine why he wanted to do this from my own personal reasons.

a beautifully made film, don't make the same mistake as one reviewer and turn off half way through, you need to see the end.

A true story which was very thought prevoking. This film kept you watching and wondering how the story would end. f|ine believable acting. certainly worth hiring.

Yes it's a little slow, a little long and concerns one main character. It's about life and choosing to live it on your own terms. It's about making mistakes and running out of time to right them. This is a brilliant gem of a film from Sean Penn who proves he is more than just a great actor. Emile is brilliant and takes you on a journey of emotions. Whatever you do don't switch off. See it through and you will be rewarded.

An adaption of a true story, with a great cast, great acting, direction and filming. The settings and characters are a wonderful introduction to rural, out-of-town America, where a young man travels and explores the concepts of what is truly important to him. His final conclusion is important not just to him. Do watch this film.

I watched the film thinking 'get a move on' but then became interested when I saw the adventures of Chris Macandless aka Alex Supertramp as he journeyed across America living his dream. He, an apparently outstanding academic and fine athlete, had taken off leaving his parents and sister without explanation which just fuelled my feelings to the end that he was a selfish b*****d (literally). His parents weren't angels but they were his parents and no mother and father deserved the torment he left them, and his sister as well who was equally wrecked by her brother's disappearance. Whereas I could understand his dream of living in Alaska's wilderness for a time, I couldn't understand his wish in living TOTALLY ALONE in the Alaskan wilderness shooting animals for food and sleeping at night in an old cold abandoned bus. I would only enjoy this unique kind of life if I was in a group - mankind is not meant by nature to be totally alone, a point that proved well at the end.

Not bad but too long and unrestrained direction. A bit self indulgent.

I thought this film to be ok, its what i would call your typical sunday afternoon film. The scenery shots of the film are awesome & the acting good, although a little slow in parts, the film tells a good story of self discovery and the choices we sometimes have to make in life.

excellent, brilliant, top class !!! Having been on a few trips to some far flung places around the globe this brought back my passion for travelling, I was glued to the tv I had to watch it again the next day, no big stars but great scenery and a great tale , which i think was based on a true story, alaska ( into the wild ) here I come

An excellent film that inspires. Based on a true story, it explains how one young man coming from a relatively well off background shakes off the shackles of every day materialism to pursue an adventure that eventually takes him to Alaska and into the wild. The direction from Sean Penn is truly excellent . Christopher McCandless finds the attachment of society to the pursuit of wealth and possessions repulsive and seeks to rid himself of his things, money and go it alone into the wilderness. He attempts to find happiness in all things of nature but eventually discovers that not being able to share happiness ultimately leaves him feeling lonely. A truly wonderful film that takes us on one man's search for truth.

My husband is always dubious about films that I choose but this time I got full marks. It started off a bit slow but it's the most amazing story, I think we didn't say a word through the whole film. The soundtrack is brilliant, they way it's filmed is brilliant the 'Alex Supertramp' is superb. Can't really fault it. It's very thought provoking. Great film!!!!!

I was prompted to rent this on account of being a die hard Pearl Jam fan. Needless to say, Vedder didn't disappoint in terms of the sound track- and I can understand why he agreed to do it. I was less impressed by the angst ridden teenage rebellion dressed up as a psychological journey. I simply didn't CARE enough about the protagonist to be entirely absorbed. Too long winded and a little like white noise. I wasn't mad with myself for taking the time out to watch it- and that happens often- but that was more to do with Vedder's (apparent) endorsement of it rather than for it's own merits. If you're 16 and angry with your folks, it might speak to you.. but otherwise it was better than The Grizzly Man.. which was utter sh*t.

Walk around your garden in circles 100 times - far more thrilling. This is BORING - the book was marginally better. In the end I just wanted him to drop dead asap so I could go to bed.

It's a bit like a car crash, you do not want to look but something makes you. This is the story of a young man who decides to leave all behind and get back to the bare necessities. And to do that in Alaska. There are very touching moments when he meets people and gets them to see what is around them again or finally, but it is very difficult to forget what he left behind to do that. While everyone will understand his need of rebellion (we all had some rebellion in us as teenagers), as an adult, it is difficult to understand his denial of his family and those who loved him. This is a film that will make you think and review your decisions and your life. It is just a shame that it meant that someone had to die alone to get us to do it. We could not agree at home if he was very selfish to leave like he did and let the others deal with his departure or very courageous to leave to live his ideals. What is sure, is that It's difficult to let this movie behind

I don't often write reviews, but wanted to counteract the smattering of poor reviews and encourage you to see this film. Wait until you're ready for a bit of melanchic escapism. Ultimately a sad tale, but also uplifting in parts. A young lad turns his back on his family and society and escapes into the wild, meeting other drifters along the way in his journey from California to Alaska. I don't want to write any spoilers, but there are many aspects that make this film truly unique and worth watching.

A pretentious piece of self decadence. Dreadful film. Managed 40 mins before turning it off. The script was cringe worthy and pointlessly wordy. Didn't care about the protagonist, in fact I wished him a painful and drawn out death! Whatever hippy point this film was trying to make could have been made much more successfully with an appealing main character and a script that didn't make you want to vomit.

Crikey, I was pretty excited when I read the psynopsis to this one... slight reservations about the poster boy emile hersch but it was worth a go and sean penn has selected his work pretty well. The film is just weak from the outset. the cinematography is very weak throughout, the character is one dimensional... and throughout his journey does not appear to grow in knowledge or wisdom, instead, we are meant to believe in his fortune cookie jedi like soundbites from the moment he leaves the family home, that age old adolesent wisdom. The fellow meets some pretty interesting folk and you often wonder why they the irritating oik so close to their hearts as I was left feeling like turning the boy away at every opportunity. You are led to believe that these wise seasoned travellers are sponges to the boys endless knowledge and experience... please! for those who have seen it, or intend to... all i'll mention are the shower scene (like a shampoo advert!) and that love interest! (as soon as he clocked her I was thinking that someone needed to take a stick to the director!)... and when he takes a whooping from the train guard, dont get me wrong, i'm big into hobo culture and train hopping but on this instance I was thinking 'give him one from me!' Please, dont misread my intentions either, this is not a love to hate type of film, i generally felt like i'd wasted 2 hours of my time on this tripe. I am sure the fellows real adventures were monumental and he was in fact an inspiration, but the tag team of emile hersch and sean penn have reduced this to a melodramic car crash of a film. avoid!

i still cant shake off the profound disappointment i experienced from watching this movie, even after a couple of months.After reading the book a few years back ,which had a subtle and haunting effect on me i made the fatal tho often made mistake of looking forward to the film,hoping that it would deliver at least a fragment of the insight,poetry and psychological complexity of the written word.how wrong i was. this just looked like it was made by the same people who did oc or some other highly polished adolescent fresh faced drivel. like the main character it was easy on the eye but vacuous and shallow.with a stuck on beard the pretty but limited young man,seemed to deliver whatever quickly scribbled lines hed been given with a self regarding vanity and look at me ma aint i clever kind of naivety usually desplayed by aspiring porn stars.awful......

Some of the philosophical statements are pretty trite, but I suppose that was all part of the misty-eyed dream of hippiedom in the early 70s. I was puzzled for a long time by the direction the film was going - was it a road movie, was it a nature film, was it a life-style film? And then it dawned on me that it was a true story and everything started to click into place. Because of that, the ending was particularly moving. Well worth watching and the images stayed in my mind for several days afterwards. Well directed by Sean Penn, but with such awesome backgrounds of the wilds of America it would have been hard to foul up.

This film was fab. It reminded me at first of 'The Beach' but then quickly became much more than that. If you want a film that makes you ask important questions from yourself, rent this.

Magical and thought provoking film about a boys journey into manhood - beautifully acted and created. Ending is quite sad tho so not best as a cheer up movie

This was more a docu-drama, with narration through a lot of the film. The film was confusing because of the way it jumped from 6 months before to present day then back again. I didn't enjoy it very much. A well shot film with beautiful scenery and excellent acting, just not my cup of tea. If you know of someone who has left home and never got back in touch, then it may be too emotional to watch.

I guess this film is like marmite- you either love it or hate it. Half the reviews here give 1*, the half give 5* so that kind of tells you something about this film. I thought it was really moving, so did my boyfriend and brother. I guess if you love kick ass action movies then this is probably not the film for you. But if you are more sensitive and thoughtful then give it a go. It is character based but the film is well paced moving back and forth through time and North America. I didn't personally find it either cliched or prententious and the protagonist does is not trying to kill himself as someone has erroneously claimed here. Excellent directing from Sean Penn and fine cameo appearance from Vince Vaugn which was a surprise.Kerry.

True to the book as far as I can remember

A celebration of a young mans wanderlust and escape from society. There's a sense of adventure in him that many others secretly desire to act out yet we only dip our toes in the water.

this isnt the type of film id normally watch but i really enjoyed it.spectacular scenery.characters you can warm to.whilst you can understand about cutting all ties to home as the film progresses you cant help starting to feel sorry for his parents especially his father at the lack of contact even though its urged from everyone he meets so i felt that a bit selfish.the scenes at the end are outstanding esp when he realises he's going to die. some people say the film is a waste of 2 1/4 hrs but its not.you soon get caught up in the story. id certainly recommend it

A very long movie about a Uni. graduate who took off in the early 80's to travel to Alaska, then ultimately live in the wild, self sufficiently. There aren't any laughs in this film equating to it being quite a serious film. There is no real dramatic content to this film and therefore because it is the thoughts and wisdom of 'normal' people, that the main character encounters, it's all a bit dull really. The best things about this film was the visuals of America and it's wildlife, in particular in Alaksa and the accompanying soundtrack which was atmospheric, mostly acoustic songs by Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder.

fab movie, abit slow to get into but once it starts its a fab watch

This film hurt me, inside.... it was really slow all the way through and yes it had a storyline but they didnt utilize it whatsoever. At times it was ok in terms of being interesting but the majority of the film was very dreary.

As you can see from other reviews it's a love it or hate it. Half way through I was ready to turn off but I kept with it. If you want action and a story/plot line you'll be dissappointed but this is a thought provoking film which will stay with you long after the creditis have rolled. The impact is increased by the fact that this is a 'true story'. Sound track is interesteing esp if you have previosly listened to any Pearl Jam and the cinematography is excellent.

I kept waiting for this film to get going but it just never happened.Gave up at half way and switched off for the news!

this was a good film could have been a bit more exciting

A really good portrayal of a man's adventure and and attempting to survive but sad ending.Good viewing

My husband and I both thought it was a waste of time. I kept asking myself if it was ever going to get good but it never did.

I am very well aware of good reviews this film has received since it was released. I do believe this is mainly due to everyone's now and then desire to throw in the hat, leave it all behind and go and live in the middle of nowhere, away from urban stress. However, this film leaves me thinking, well what is the message? To me personally, I can only say what a bloody idiot (re refering to main character).and I have personally not found an inspiring message whatsoever.

Almost swiched this off half way through, found it realy slow & quite dull. The only positives where you get to see what a diverse & huge country the USA is, & the direction from Sean Penn is excellent.

This is a daring movie about a dude that gets fed up with his life and decides to disappear and live off the wilderness. Its a daring plot that requires great acting and direction, and the team that made it pulled it off. You need to be in a mood to watch it and get into it though. It's one of those indie movies you'll remember long after watching it, i'm sure it will move you.

By the end of this film you really do love the main character who captivates people throughout his journey. Could have been boring but was directed so well it kept you gripped all the way to the end. As much as anything else this film is about family and human beings need to share their lives with others even if they dont think they need to.

Only need one word to sum this film up and that word is FANTASTIC.

Enjoyed this film a lot but i dont think its for everyone. At first, as the main character quoted his favourite writers to me in typical hippy fashion, i thought it was going to cheese me out a bit. It does get better though. The narration through the sister made you wanna shout 'poor little rich kid' at the screen a little but but i suppose everyones problems are relative. There were some really good shots of the wilderness and although you did pity the naivety of the main character Alex, sometimes, you did want to step inside his shoes and taste his freedom as well. I think Sean Penn did really well directing/producing this film. It breaks away from the tried and tested and often goes for the unexpected angle on things. Would recommend.

Really enjoyed this film.

Beautiful scenery but the story wasn't so enjoyable.

When I forst started to watch this, I thought that this had to be a true story. A brilliant film and this had me captivated throughout. It was both heart warming and heart wrenching at times. Understanding the struggle that someone can go through questioning life, relationships and society, especially as you are growing up. What an amazing young man, perhaps selfish (he could have at least let his family know he was ok), but also inspiring. Having the courage to do what he did, well I have greatest respect for Chris. We are all on a journey, and if you notice what is REALLY around you, well, this will take you further. Recommend.

A very interesting true story tale. What could have been a by-the-numbers biography is transformed by director Sean Penn into a gripping story. At times I had no idea where the film was going, which is alwways a good thing. Worth watching.

What self-indulgent nonsense. Who cares about this guy? Too slow and I just can't stand the music.

Excellent film. True story. Well worth watching....

A very good film, well performed although a little heavy.

I thought this film would be uplifting and it was to start off with but I couldn't watch the end, it was horrific. Amazed it is based on a true story. He must have been a great guy. Overall I guess I did enjoy the film to an extent, the scenery was beautiful and it wasfilmed in quite an arty way, I just wanted there to be a happy ending.

If you are really into nature, the outdoors and 'roughing it' then this film may hold some interest for you. Basically a story about a young man who decides to not lead the normal day to day life of others but to give it all up and go exploring nature and the natural beauty of the outdoor/backpacking life. Nicely shot but slow as the whole film is mainly just watching him walk around meeting up with the odd person and then moving on. The guy ends up living in an abandoned bus in the wild, wasting away and dying at the ripe old age of 24. Based on a true story. Boring, slow, depressing and a total waste of a young man's life who never understood that the only really important thing on this planet is to love and be loved.

I rented this just for something different, not expecting it to be anything great, but what a surprise! I wont give anything away - me and my boyfriend were completely absorbed all the way through - it was a fantastic story, made even more amazing that the story was true. The main actor was really good and the stories of the people he meets along the way are both funny and emotional. When the film ended we both said thats the best film we had seen in a long time - great story, well paced and you become so involved throughout. I would highly recommend this film to anyone who wants to see a great story and has ever felt they want to just pack it all in and go off somewhere new - great * * * * * *

A fascinating and well told true story about an amazing individual who was brave enough to break away and seek adventure in the dangerous and unknown wild.

The book was great but the film was very boring. Didnt care what happened to Chris in the film. Dont bother , read the book instead.

I selected this film after reading the review on IMDB and expected something considerably different to what I got. Quite frankly I didn't get the story, the film, the concept at all what was the point in making a film about what was a true story but a totally pointless story. All the way through the film you find yourself asking why, why why bother. This is right up there with Last Action Hero as being one of the worst films that I have ever seen! Do yourself a favour and don't bother renting it out :)

this film is so awesome. i would recommend that everyone watches it! the film-making is so beautiful, the acting mind-blowing and the story itself touched my heart. i can't believe its true. watch it!!!

not my cup of tea at all and the film did not work properly either, kept freezing so I gave up

Based on a true story of a man (selfish as he didn't tell his family that he was OK) who goes travelling. A good film, but with a graphic scene of cutting up a dead moose - yuck!

Everyone once in a while you'll come across a breaktaking film which makes you re-evaluate your life whilst moving you to tears. This film did exactly that. It's a tale of an extraordinary man who wants only to achieve one thing to live in the wild and live off the land. During his travels he meets many people who help him reach his goal. He may seem arrogant and foolish when starting his journey but his enthusiam is infectious and his kindness towards the people he meets is also endearing. Whilst they help him reach alaka bit by bit he helps them fulfil their own untapped potential. The fact that this is based on a true story only makes the tears roll down your face faster, as Christopher's dream of living in the wild becomes more difficult than he ever imagined.

A big dissapointment after the disproportionate acclaim. The film seemed as confused as the main character. All I got was an image of a naive but intelligent man not much different from many educated young university graduates. His insights weren't a revelation, the story wasn't particularly exciting either .Because of this the character portrayed is decidedly irritating. It was shot nicely but nothing spectacular.

I thought this film was absolutely amazing. I knew that it was based on a true story but I did not realise how caught up I would be in the story. To watch the journey of a young man, dissatisfied with his life take off with no money to live in solitude in Alaska was so beautifully told. Emilie Hirsh gives an outstanding performance as the young man. I laughed, I cried I cannot rate this film highly enough. Although if you of a nervous disposition do not watch this film because it is pretty graphic in places.

This film is a beautiful tradegy, full of hope. The scenes are inspiring, and the acting excellent. i felt uplifted and inspired throughout this film, and was surprised and unwilling to believe the tragedy to finish the story. The adaptation from life to film is a testament to the young traveller.

If you like your films filled with fast-paced and hard-hitting action, special effects and eye candy, this film is not for you. It's an extremely sensitive piece, appealing to a part of each of us which wants to escape the rat race. The story follows self-named Alexander Supertramp on his travels across America to the wilderness of Alaska, where he intends to live completely isolated from a society he considers to be materialistic and superficial. Burning both his ID and his cash and armed with only a backpack and a few books, he treks on foot, hitching lifts from whoever will pick him up. Those he meets along the way serve to remind us of the kindness of strangers and there are some really touching moments, particularly with a fabulous old war veteran called Ron. Alex is a compelling main character, stubborn in his rejection of society until the very end, when he learns a valuable lesson. This film will appeal to arthouse audiences more than mainstream cinema-goers. I've never seen anything like it and it really touched me on such a deep level that it instantly became one of my favourites.

Into the wild? Into the wilderness more like cos thats where this film takes you. Its very slow and dare I say it moribund. The acting is great but the plot takes the edge of what could have been a much more interesting film

I thoroughly enjoyed this film, I thought the acting and camera work was superb. Had to order the music the next day, Eddie Vedder's vocals and achingly haunting music match the mood perfectly.

Had heard about this film already from my Dad and he said it was great.I wasn't convinced to begin with, but by the end of the film I felt it had struck a chord with me. There are some great shots in the movie and the scenery is fantastic, but I wasn't sure about the sister's narration throughout the film.I love the idea of going off into the wild and fending for yourself, I really admire what he did. I'll have to find out about the real explorer and see what he was like, because the actor's portrayal of him comes across at first, as too arrogant. I know he's meant to be quite big headed because he's very bright and he's still young. But was the real guy that much of a know it all about life. We should probably listen more to the oldies like he does in the film if we want to be wise.

This film shows magnificant scenerey and apart from that, has little going for it. It is a true life story but felt I had wasted my money on renting this one.

We found this film to be absolutely dreadful. We fast forward most of it, hoping the end would be an improvement, but it wasn't. Awful...just awful.

If you like meandering rather cliched 'unsettled-young-man-looking-for-his-identity' type of film then this is for you. I abandoned the fillm after twenty minutes.

I found this film disturbing and tragic. That a gifted young man with all his life ahead of him never got the chance to fulfill his dreams. A lie spoken whether to protect or not is still a lie and have tragic consequences. I enjoyed the film in as much it was telling a story and would recommend others to watch it. But have the tissues ready.

Many people want this but don't have the guts to do it

Beautifully shot film and very well acted. A thought-provoking film that stays with you for some time. Would definitely recommend it.

One of the best and raw films I have seen in a long time!!! After watching it you will think about it for days, it has such an impact! Greatly acted throughout, Emile Hirsch did an amazing job. The soundtrack is brilliant aswell! Deffinatly recommend!

i thought this film was great. a little slow to start but well worth a watch

Absolutely wonderful film. It was beautifully made and I found it very moving.

This film is very cleverly done with a strong performance from the main character. This will get you talking, crying and laughing. It definatley makes you think, so if you like light hearted films this is not for you! I would strongly reccommend this to anyone who likes a good true story that doesnt always have happy endings.

This is one of those films I wanted to see, but kept avoiding as I wasn't really in the mood for it. However, once I started to watch it, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Emile Hirsche was excellent as Chris McCandless, a rather self-centred but very fascinating human being. The story was well told throughout, narrated by Chris's sister, with continous flashbacks to his childhood outlining how he became this person. The characters he met along the way gave the film some really outstanding emotional scenes and really showed how detached a boy Chris actually was. As I didn't know anything about this prior to watching the film, I had no idea that it was going to end the way it did and was really upset by this. All in all an excellent movie - well worth watching.

thoughtful without ever being indulgent

Great Photography & Locations and an excellent punchline.

After watching this film I couldnt stop thinking about it for days afterwards, it really did affect me. Maybe that was due to the fact I didnt realise it was based on a true story until the end credits and I was suprised these events actually happened to someone. I recommend this film, especially those who could relate to the feeling of wanting to escape society and just take off! Its not a lighthearted film and I'd suggest watching it on your own when you're in more of a serious mood.

Really enjoyed this film. Did not realise it was a true story until the end.

A powerful and sensitive portrayal of one man's mission to understand himself and the world around him. Incredibly powerful particularly as the outcome of Alexander Supertramp's adventure is revealed. It's the sort of movie that you're still thinking about two or three weeks later. Oscar worthy all round.

very watchable, some-time quirky film, recommended

a great film in every way a film should be, a road movie that draws you into one mans quest to live his life by his rules and engages throughout as we travel with him across America and into the wilderness . Heartfelt, superbly directed, filmed and acted, with beautifully observed moments and really makes you dream of the life hes leading up until the very last!

There has to be better things to do that to waste time with dull films and this is one on them. Could have been good but didn't cut the mustard for me!

I loved this film and it stayed with me for a long time after watching it with its haunting beauty and engaging lead. Emile Hirsch was convincing as Christopher McCandless in his determination to live in the wild and the way he engaged people he met on his (real-life) journey. The film made me want to read the book (which was even better and answered all kinds of questions like where the bus came from). The film had me walking beside Christopher McCandless seeing his experience - the book took me into his head (too complex to portray in a movie) - do rent/read both!

A slow film but give it a chance. I wish I had known it was based on a true story

A heart rendering and gripping journey of self discovery. Hauntingly stays with you long after the film has ended.

This film was different to what I was expecting, however the scenery was beautiful, the acting was good and the film very thought provoking. I was really glad we watched it and have thought about it a number of times since. Definitely worth watching.

This is an unusual film of a real life story. Not what I expected, it was making a statement but I'm not quite sure what. My family were not impressed but I liked it for its frank but dreamy take on life.

My husband really enjoyed this film finding it very interesting. I in turn found it morose and the opposite of uplifting.

Nothing really ever happens in this film and after an hour I gave up, I couldn't bear to waste another hour of my life. Great Cinematography, thats about it.

This film was very emotional but nevertheless watchable. It told the incredible story of central character who after graduating from university goes on a trip 'into the wild'. The ending was very sad and you sometimes wonder what his family must have thought........ Great directorship by Sean Penn.

Rather long and sad, but great acting. Haunting that it's a true story.

This is a great Sunday night chill out to watch on your own film. If you like travel, adventure and want to escape from your life then you'd enjoy this. I love true stories too. My only criticism is that there were quite a few cheesy lines now and again.. but these should just be ignored... Just a great film that is easy to watch and real to beleive. It will never be a best ever film but all good if you keep it all in prespective. Brruuurr!!

This film was a lucky find for me however I have just gone out and bought the Book it is based on - that is how much I enjoyed it. In brief it is a film about identity, truth and meaning - and the journey to find it. I identified with this theme very much and would recommend this to anyone who likes to be left thinking while the credits roll on.... It left quite a profound effect on me, see what you think. C

I thought this film was very well done and really enjoyed it. It was quite sad as well that he died alone in the end. The music is great and the scenery.

Firstly, I watched this film without any idea what it was about .....except I had heard a few songs from the soundtrack. From start to finish I was drawn into the life of this young man trying to find reason & purpose to his life. Emile Hirsch, who plays the main charcter is exceptional. Sean Penn's direction is also fantastic as the story weaves in and out from past to present. Overall it's a truly inspiring peice of film making & the best I have seen in the last 12 months Alexander Supertramp leaves a lesson to be learnt by all. 10/10

Loved it - cinematography beautiful, the search for self-understanding, self awareness with the natural world providing the space and time - Wonderful.

Someone had told me that the main character in this movie (Chris McCandless) is hard to like but i couldn't disagree more. I completely empathised with him. I was very taken with how he lived. I wish I could live my life the way he did. Just watch it with an open mind. Imagine the human race without characters like this! Oh and it is extremely well acted and directed.

I watched this with my kids and we loved it. It was thought provoking making you question society`s values. It was extremely sad and poignant at the end.The senery was fantastic and the director cleverly made the return to the city seem more dangerous than being in the wild. I`d have no hesitation in recommending this.

Such a wonderfully uplifting and engrossing film. Astoundingly beautiful scenery, superb acting and many 'how did they do that' moments. The sudden shock of the railroad policeman's abhorrent brutality counterbalanced with the sadness & bewilderment of the family left behind, and all the while caught up in the sheer joy of life & exuberance of the main character. I won't express my final emotion at the end of the film as I do not wish to spoil the ending for any future viewer. I had read nothing about this film before I saw it, I hadn't realised it was a true story.

unwatchable and embarrassing

If everyone in life who had pressuring parents that argued with each other and made your life that little bit more unpleasant left home to roam the country, then sherwood forrest would be rammed. Are we expected to support his decisions? yes and no? it certainly makes for a entertaining film which overall was very very good. It centres around this character who after a well funded successfull college graduation decides that social life has nothing to offer, to the point that he gives his savings $24,000 to Oxfam, jumps in his car and heads 'Into the Wild' He meets some good characters along the way (free love hippies, scandinavian backpackers, farmers and lonely old men) and some of these are refreshing, but just seem to drag out an already long slow paced film with no reward, in fact i appreciated the scenes that didn't involve another party added into the mix. The acting is superb and the lead is certainly someone to watch out for and has already bagged himself some future oscar contending titles. The scenery is breathtaking and would be worthy of centre pages of national geographic and i think this adds an instant likeing to the film. Some things are not answered in the film that can irritate e.g. early on he burns the last of his money, but then gets a job in Burger King to fund his trip???? he misses his sister so much, but will not make just one call or write one letter to her????? and why the HELL is he so determined to go to ALASKA????? these things sound petty but looking back can paint a selfish image of the lead. Overall this film is well worth a look, but it could split you down the middle: Spoilt little rich kid thinking only of himself or Outspoken adventurer proving you dont need materials in life to be happy but friendship and love.

Based on a true story, Sean Penn gives us the life of a successful student deciding to leave everything to follow the Calling of the wild. It is beautifully filmed and a cause for reflection on the society we live in. The soundtrack by Pearl Jam Eddy Vedder is just fantasticand fits like a glove the story.

Remembered a couple of important things I'd forgotten.

Possibly the finest piece of film making I've ever seen. The cinemetography and and locations were at times breath taking. The script and casting nigh on perfect. Never has a film moved me so much in so many ways. If you see no other film this year, or in fact ever, then make it this one.

did not think i woulld like this but was amazed by locations, actors.the story was about a man who left everything behind and followed his dreams meeting wonderful people along the way

This is a very long film. Slow at times, but that was the joy of it. Even though I'm female I could really identify with this guy. I myself had just returned from a long time away travelling, and interestingly perhaps the reason this film struck a chord with me was because the 'end realisation' that the lead character, Alex, comes to realise, is infact the same realistion that I myself came to realise by the end of my travels. Beautifully filmed, beautifully acted, and beautifully narrated, by the end of the film I was literally balling my eyes out. Amazing and beautiful film but don't wear mascara!!! You'll have the biggest panda eyes ever!!!

Having heard a little of this film I was looking forward to watching it. I really wasn't disappointed and I don't think you will be. It's beautifully shot, the scenary is breathtaking as you follow the main character on his journey through the USA. It made me want to hire a car and go off travelling there for a few months, having never been before. It's an incredibly moving film which has stayed with me for days now. I was touched by the main character's life, family, his choices and the people he met on his travels. He was clearly an incredible person who chose the path less travelled, the consequences of which were life-changing for everyone that he knew.

YAWN !!!, too long and a rubbish ending. True story though so got to feel sorry for the kid, but if was his own daft idea.

Though the ending is expected it is a long drawn out film

Very Good Rather slow in places.

enjoyed the film. A little too broken up in all its different scenes, and an end that could have taken things to a more positive and hopeful end

Not a bad film, weird ending though! Some parts were a little emotional, some were boring & some were entertaining but all in all a kind of strange film.

Not at all what I expected, my initial reaction was one of irritation that it was so slow-moving. But it's a film that you need to relax into, I think. Beautifully crafted from a true story by Sean Penn, built up using flash-backs and narrative, it reveals a side of America not so often seen....ordinary people whose lives are touched by an extraordinary young man passing through. I found it in the end, deeply affecting. I'd recommend it to anyone who wants to ....think!

A great film for a girly night in

An interesting story that loses its own thread somewhere in the first hour. The attempt to explain the main character's enigmatic wanderings is unsatisfactory and this film falls back on too many visual cliches to fill in the space between beginning and end. It could easily lose about 20 minutes. That said, I'd still recommend it. At its best it is almost majestic, at its less convincing it is merely portentous.

I enjoyed this film yet it is not one I would go back to. (Lucky this is a rental site ten!) Sean Penn proves to be intelligent and powerful director, elegantly telling the story of a young man who gives up everything he has (including his family) to become one with nature. The film looks fantastic and this is quite an achievement as it was made on a very strict budget. However good the aesthetics of the film are I still cannot get my head round the main character. Although likable at first glance, with time one realises that he is a pretentious and selfish person. He leaves his family without any warning and stays completely out of touch with them, on the basis that they fought when he was younger and that they don't understand him well enough. Also his quest to become a man of nature due to society being too systematic is totally juvenile and for an apperently intelligent person to believe what he is doing is noble is quite unbelievable. The film does gain a certain poignancy due to the fact that the story is factual (to a degree) but the irritatingness of the protaganist is too much to bare at some points. Otherwise a majestic debut from Sean Penn and I look forward to seeing more of his work in the future.

I cannot remember the last time I saw such a divisive, moving and powerful film. The perfomances are outstanding, the film is beautifully shot and the sentiment is as relevant today as when the tragedy first unfolded. It is definately the type of film that fuels debate (which is never a bad thing) and will ultimately stay with you for a long time after the credits have rolled. Enjoy.

Bliemy the scenary is greaat but..... this doesnt make up for woeful acting and storyl;ine. The naration by the sister is annoying!!! Hurst's mustache in thjis acts the others of the screen!!!!!

good choice ,not spellbinding by any means but worth a watch

Is it just me? I found this film slow and incredibly depressing... not my idea of a great night in.

I just thought that this film was ok, nothing great or spectacular

This film is an absolute must see. An amazing and shocking story with some interesting characters and great adventures along the way. A beautiful film, well directed by Mr Penn.

AMAZING. this film has changeds my outlook on life. i could go on about it forever

A fabulous very emotional story about a young man Christopher McCandless living a true life , I for one am off to by the book..

I really enjoyed this film and thought the central character was excellent. So glad I didn't know what the outcome was going to be as I think it would have spoit it for me. Beautiful cinematography and a really moving and emotional story.

Absolutely stunning. One of the best movies I have ever seen!

I make a point of not watching or reading too many reviews for films, and only caught this one because the subject matter seem a bit left field. I'm so glad I caught it. the film really gets under the skin of the main character, and the lead actor carries nearly all the weight of the film and succeeds in making you feel his rage and compassion. i am so glad the directors didn't cut the film to make it more box office.

This films not one that I would usually go out of my way to see but it truely is a fantastic film. Excellent performance by Emile Hersch confirms what an upcoming talent he is and beautifully directed by Sean Penn. Emotional draw to this film that makes the running time seem much shorter than the actual +2 hour length.

Excellent film, very moving, a young man's voyage of discovery that could be inspiring to many who see it.

This is a well told remarkable story. And a true one too. The story of a young man who rebels against his ivy league parents, and basically goes walkabout in the US aiming for the Alaskan wilderness. A tender and moving account told in episodic style so its never boring. Emile Hirsch plays Chris with tenderness and you can't help but like him. A great little movie, highly recommended.

5mins into the film and me and my wife thought big mistake . We stayed with it and were glad we did.A pleasant change from the norm.

Excellent film really sweet and it was a shock to find it a true story. Dawn

awesome movie, I really enjoyed it.

Nice film in theory. In reality it was way too slow.

He rarely makes bad films and Man on Fire continues Denzel Washingtons excellent celluliod output. Powerful, well scripted and acted, maybe a little predictable but nevertheless exciting and to cap it all based on a true story. Other than the slightly predictable storyline, the plot explores one of the less well known aspects of Latin America culture through the journey of the 'lost' body guard who rediscovers his worth via the love a little girl who falls into his duty of care. Some great action sequences and unusal means of death whch are metered out via the avenging angel lead to an unsual climax spoilt only by the religious overtones. Not the best and not as good as Training Day or Malcom X but there is a whole load of rubbish which people watch and this is much better tham most.

Penn tells this true story with great skill and sensitivity to the characters. The story and the telling of it are captivating. The film has stayed on my mind. Highly recommended.

Good performances but generally a weak story and poor narative.

Brilliantly told story. Not liked anything involving Sean Penn before this but I thought this was excellent - moving and thought provoking.

this film is like sean penn pretentious and overly wordy if you like him u will love this. i don`t and i didn`t.

I couldn't actually be bothered to watch this all the way through - it just didn't work for me! The book is far better and I would recommend that over the film any day.

I guess this movie is as well a voyage of discovery for the main character than the viewer. This true story is about a young guy escaping a well planned future and embarking on a voyage of discovery. The scenes are clerverly organised with a mix of scenes between his final destination and the people he encouters en route. Be warned this film will sweep you away emotionally.

This was a very thought prevoking movie, it is all about the characters relatiosnhips with not only those around him but also with himself. Very touching and sad in its gentleness and even more so when you realise that it is a true story. The scenery is stunning and it is posisble to relate to the character who is a bit of a loner. Not the kind of movie that I would normally watch and not up lifting, it made me think about those around me and made me really quite sombre. A great movie, but it might make you cry!

My wife and I really enjoyed this moving and beautifully shot film. Interesting sound track. We loved it!

Loved this film ,wasn't what I thought it was going to be at all. Took a little time to get used to the style, bit quirky but once I was in the groove I loved it. Would definately recommend it to anyone

This film is too cheesy, good story badly interpreted and acted.

this film was a joy to watch very gripping and directed beautifully. the only problem i had with the film is it seemed too pretty makin it appear less truthful and harder to accept. still i highly recommend it

This was a movie I was a little weary about before watching, I had only seen Emile Hersch in one movie, Girl Next Door. I was sceptical about his ability to play a character like this, but he pulled it off well, although it was not perfect. The story itself is unbelievable and I feel that the director made this man's life look remarkable right up until the end. Overall it was a great movie and I would recommend it to anybody

Into the wild is a beautifully made film that unlike most of the recently highly accliamed movies, does include dialogue and a plot as well as some truly loveable, imperfect characters. When you feel like you can't live with other people any more, ask whether you can live without them. I was pleasantly suprised as I thought this film might advocate misanthopic tendancies but infact the reverse is true. Without giving toooo much away, the film is deeply moving and may even cause you to shed a tear but the overall feeling it leaves you with is a good one. Be greatful for the relationships that you build during your life as escaping from them will only bring you happiness so long as they are there to return to. No man is an island! The landscapes of America and Canada are incredible and sublime, everything that the literature so obsessed over by the lead character sought to portray. ps. The soundtrack rocks!

unusual film which we thoroughly enjoyed but left wanting more at the end: worth watching

Thoroughly enjoyable film about someone who goes against the grain and steps off of the societal coneyor. The moments he has along the way are maybe moments that we experience all too infrequently. The film leaves its mark.

What a wonderful film. Beautifully told and well photographed. The kind of film, even despite the 'hard' ending, that makes you question your life and where it is heading. Much better, and deeper, than I'd imagined from the trailer.

I watched this and have mixed feelings about it. I know it's a true story, which allways makes watching a movie better for me, but so sad the way he died! He was such a nice guy and I love what he did, but so stupid to go without the propper knowledge. I think that's why it was so sad to me, he could still be alive telling his tale if it wasn't for his lack of knowledge. I learned alot from this film though, which is why I enjoyed it.

It took a while to get going this movie. Had the photgraphy and direction not been excellent I may have switched it off. I agree the main character lacks charisma and never really shocks or inspires. He basically travels which many backpackers inclduing myself have done. its a sort of a jack kerouac / beach mix and he looks a bit like leonardo. Anyway here's the truth. I found myself wanting to find out why he was doing this. Along the way he picks up some surrogate family and by the end of the movie his lack of real emotional connection lends me to ask why? what's wrong with you? Don't want to spoil the ending but it has a twist and the tolstoy philosophy expounded along the way comes to one inevitable conclusion. The meaning of life. That said it could have been wonderful instead it's only great. Thorughly enjoyable and some breathtaking heart stopping scenery camera work.

This is the tue story of Chris McCandles, who after graduating university decides to runaway to Alaska with minimal possesions and choosing to give the whole of of $24k college fund to charity, much to the horror of his family. Chris' need for the wild and desolate Alaska mirrors how he feels about his relationship with his parents who only have expectations of him rather than love for him, coupled with the recent knowledge that he and his sister were born whilst his dad was married to someone else only adds to the hurt Chris feels, leading to his voyage into not only the wild, but also into relationships. Throughout his journey he meets some good people striking a close bond with some, most ironically with two very different people who have 'lost' their children and cling to Chris as if he is a surrogate son, and he to them, looking for the love he so wants from his own parents. Ironically, although on the brink of divorce when Chris runs away, his parent are brought back together in the joint anguish of their loss. This film is beautifully written, directed and acted. If you want a typical Hollywood blockbuster, then this is not the film for you. It does not rely on special effects or glitz and glam; just damn fine story telling.

One of the best films I've seen for a very long time.

Poerty and Carribou about sums this up - its rubbish - enough said ? A student gives away his money and goes to live in the Wild - but in fact ends up living in an abandoned bus a few miles out of Fairbanks Alaska. He then proceeds to recite lousy poetry for 2 hours 12 minutes before finally doing us all a favour and dropping dead. We fell asleep.

exellent film, very moving, funny and sad, a good mix all round

Wow! Fab film based on a true story. Great scenary and filmmaking. Compelling stuff!

My husband and I quite enjoyed this film. It is quite long and a bit melodramatic at times, but ultimately quite an inspiring story.

This is a film about a younng man searching for life's meaning in a very different and interesting way. The film is perhaps 15 minutes too long but that is the only critism I would make.

Rubbish; what idiot goes into the wilds of Alaska armed with a 22 rifle, insufficient provisions and absolutely no knowledge of how to survive in the wilderness. And we’re to feel sorry for him? You must be kidding Mr. Penn.

A kid decides to run away from home and go and live in the wild on his own. Initially he does okay and happens upon a caravan to live in, but unfortunately doesn't have the capacity or experience to make it work. Quite depressing!

Not a chirpy film but definitely engaging, interesting and emotional. The kind of film where you remember the details. It gives you a different viewpoint of the world and draws you into the freedom of a truly self sufficient existence and the tiny actions that can cause such massive consequences. I thought it was great...

I thought this film was going to be boring at the start due to the disjointed filming but I was wrong. This is one of the most moving and amazing films I have ever seen. The scenery is fantastic and the story is well told.

Slow film. Wasn't too bad once it got going and able to get in to it.

Amazing film! Others have said it before, and I can only agree that this film is funny, sad, happy, heartwarming, eye opening, awe inspiring and remarkable! Its not often that a film really gets to me, but this one did - one to watch just on the off chance it might get to you too! Very highly recommended.

I can't rate this one highly enough! The story of a disturbed teenager who felt he never really lived up to his parent's expectations. He decides to take off on an exploration, meeting new friends wherever he goes, changing people's perspectives. His goal is to get to Alaska - which he eventually does but then he finds himself fighting for survival. I can't do this film justice by the description alone, reading it back it sounds boring, but I promise you this film is far from boring! It moved me to tears in the end. You felt for everyone in that film and the fact that it's based on a true story makes it all the more compelling. Another good film that sticks with you.

Into the Wild is a moving story, you really like Christopher and to realize that it was a biographical film only makes it better. Every one should see it!

Found it difficult to relate to the protagonist ... alienated sure but what does he achieve in solitude?

This film is astoundingly good. Ponderous, vast, beautifully shot, acted and scored. The first film for years to bring a lump into my throat. If you are young or old, this film should move you. I don't want to give anything away, but see this film tonight....remember it forever. For all the people that hated it, you have no soul....

Slow weird beginning but after about 40 mins you get into the fim. Beautiful scenery though. Lots of flashbacks.

Great film - a real journey. Sad, tragic, revealing and poigniant. Would recommend.

Great movie and a travelogue about the undiscovered/hidden America, that was really quite emotionally disturbing at the end. Having got to know him quite well, it was upsetting when you realised that this was a real young man who had died a sad death

Thiswas a film hired purely on reviews and we weren't disapooine. A magnificent story and for a change the real ending was there to be seen and no schmaltzy Hollywood cop out. One of the best films I have seen this year and far outstrips some of the so-called blockbusters costing millions. Do yourself a favour and spend the night in with this.

strange, but intriguing. However not all that entertaining.

This film starts off slowly but gathers pace from middle to end. Quite thought provoking and poignant and truly sad but in a nice way. There is some truly fantastic cinematography which makes you want to go and visit the places! A sad ending to a true story but very worth watching.

I got bored with this one and never made it to the end. But the 16-year olds in my house liked it because it was angsty and idealistic.

just to remind you not to get caught up in the rat race! we should do what we feel like instead of what we ar being told. excellent excellent!

It's the occasional dream of most of us I suppose, in those oddly moving or inspiring moments in movies or watching tv when you think 'god it would be great to do that'. The best part of this movie is that it focuses very clearly on what might happen if you do! The worst part is that the tenuous and rather pat links to the reason that the walkabout took place are very weak being both poorly explained and illustrated in flashback- this is David Attenborough with teeth and it bites back - fantastic filming of scenery; voiceover a bit irritating but absolutely necessary; biggest impact is when you understand, (even though you already know), that this is based on a true story. I shall not spoil the ending but if you are getting restless part way through - bear with it.

not to bad abit long winded but alright

Every young person should watch this as they are coming to the end of their formal education. Or matbe I'm just disappointed there no such films to inspire me when I left school.

This was not a film that I had on my radar, but after a remark from a friend I thought I would watch it. Wow what a surprise, this was a really powerful film. I thought it was very deep and thought provoking in places. It was a combination of happy (a la goodwill hunting) and sad. I found it a truly inspirational and aspirational film which I would truly recommend. My mind was buzzing for an hour after the film finished, unfortunately reality (work next day) then kicked in. But oh to have the confidence of the lead character...

wonderfully moving and uplifting piece of film based on the true story of this boy who followed his dream. Most of us don't possess this courage, which makes watching someone else an adventure of sorts for us all. Thoroughly enjoyable, well played and well produced.

I was really looking forward to this film but found it hard to get into & tuned out started reading a book instead! i tried watching a second time but still couldn't get into it found it hard to follow & still don't really know what happened!

interesting - as from real life - but not as good as I'd heard

when reading about the film from other reviews it really didnt stand out to me as a film i have too see but i decided to give it a go and it was truely amazing, to be honest it touched me, knowing that this was based on a true story really helped me to feel like i was actually there with him on his travels. fantastic performances and well directed. MUST SEE!!!!!!!

absolutely brilliant well worth watching,

non fiction tribute to a young man who had everything and throw it away and ended up dying alone with nothing for a short taste of freedom.

must see fantastc film

A marvellous film, that really cuts to the core. It's a wonderful reflection on the essence of life and it leaves a lasting impression that will linger for time to come. The film is beautifully shot and highly thought-provoking, it's bold and deeply moving and the direction is top-drawer. Overall, one of the best films I've seen in a long time - a must see.

it was very drawn out. sorry slow not my cup of tea.

I found this film, quite simply, very moving and brilliant. I didn't know anything about the story before watching 'Into The Wild,' so as it unfolded I was shocked, surprised and really moved. To think that it's based on a true story, just breaks my heart. It's not for the faint hearted and it's not a film that will particularly uplift you, but it will stay with you for a while afterwards. And, if you're anything like me, you'll start to do your own research into the real story behind this film after you've watched it.

did not go much on this film very slow story hard to follow coming of age film

Excellent movie - great scenery and moving story

this is one of the most moving films i have seen in years. i was optimistic after reading reviews but nothing could've prepared me for the experience of watching this film. it was able to evoke a mixture of feelings which covered a very wide range. despite the film being over i continue to think about it and go back over some of the aspects which in my opinion contributed to the final outcome. i have never felt the need to write a review before but after watching this i really wanted to.this film is fantasic.....

Without giving the game away - its a great story about a young man who travels into the wilds of Alaska meeting some genuinely interesting & quirky characters along the way who help liberate him through their shared pathways. Funny, delicious moments leading to his destination in Alaska. Does he succeed in his quest? This is mixed - I think its an individual opinion.

I may be a forty-something careerwoman, but I really identified with the joy of freedom in natural surroundings experienced by this young man. I also really identified with the wise messages about life in this film and found the portrayal very believable. It has a great soundtrack. Well done director Sean Penn. My only criticism is that it is a bit too long. Not that it became boring - far from it - but one gets uncomfortable sitting watching it for over two hours!

This is a good film, but not for everybody. It was good for us, though: a good story well told.

Wow. This film might not be everyone's cup of tea but it really makes you think. The plot is clear and the film has a strong storyline which keeps you ineterested. Well worth a watch.

I had not heard of this film so I took a bit of a flyer renting it.........it is a beautiful film set in some awe inspiring locations, a story of a life lived and then enlightnment but don't watch it if you are feeling a litle bit down it will finish you off! Seroiusly though it is a brilliant film and I consider it a a must see but then again that is my opinion!

“You’re wrong if you think the joy of life comes principally from human relationships. God’s placed it all around us. It’s in everything, in anything we can experience. People just need to change the way they look at those things.” – Alex, Into The Wild. Inspired by the true story of Christopher Johnson McCandless (1968 – 1992), this is an intricate, yet flexible look into the freedom and simple beauty of things held within each and every one of us as autonomous, emotional beings. Alex holds true to himself by following his moral code and principles, which leads him in search of an honest life, following the realisation that those around him haven’t displayed the same level of moral fibre. This spurs him on to journey alone in search of the person he knows he can be without the trappings and lies of a modern-day, and seemingly cruelly materialistic and self-centred world. Having only been close to his sister, anger and problems surrounding poor relations with his parents lead him to continue his deeply personal journey to free him of their errors and imperfections. With the intrinsic nature of the troubles he is trying to break free from, and the perceptions he has of the world around him, can he ever truly be comfortable and free with the identity he has assumed? Becoming his own man in the suspended animation of those he’d left behind, he finds some closeness and comfort with those he meets on his travels. Ironically, the understanding that happiness is only real when shared comes at his weakest hour. With narrations by his sister and himself, and shared philosophies of those whose lives he touched, and who touched him, Into The Wild is a tale beautifully told, and magically portrayed. Poetic at worst and heart-grippingly romantic at best, this film is a must see.

Based on a true story. Dose not try to glorify the protagonist (who is flawed and not always lovable). Some beautiful shots of stunning wildnerness. Interesting and thought-provoking. Although not the best movie you'll ever see, worthwhile

Into the Wild is based on the true story of a young man and the adventure / tragedy that he embarks on after he has successfully graduated College. On the whole this film is a little too generous to the memory of the central character. He embarks on a journey across America and the film tells the mini stories of his interactions with the people he meets along the way. The actor who plays Alex has an excellent energy to him and the supporting cast are great, particularly the hippy couple and Vince Vaughn as the mildly crooked head of a harvesting crew. I felt that he could do no wrong and it was a little soppy how he changes for the good everybody's lives that he touches in what is really a very selfish bit of escapism. He eventually achieves his goal of reaching Alaska and survives (just) a winter on his own in an old bus but I think the film reads far too much into the idea of a higher way of a living and a deeper understanding of life and death because in reality he tried to get back to civilization, failed because of the high river and no map (there was a crossing 1/4 mile up) and subsequently starved to death on his own. Not a romantic way to go at all and not really anything to do with 'finding yourself'. Just stupidity and extremely selfish considering his parents only got piecemeal evidence of his whereabouts from the police, an element of reality that the film does not dwell on. He's not a cult hero for me. It's okay to spend his labouring wages on a canoe but not okay to get a map?

Totally loved this film. Very moving story and fantastic scenery. Ended up buying the soundtrack and the book on the strength of it.

Beautiful cinematography, great soundtrack, inspiring story that addresses the question of what it means to be human. This is what all films should be like.

A nice film to watch on a lazy wet Sunday afternoon, although not sure its hat cheery! Pretty moving in parts, but too long. Definately worth a watch, if only for the short relationships he strikes up along the way.

took a while to get going but by the end this was a stunning film, fantastic acting, a very sad true story

This film had so much hype surrounding it that I wasn't sure if it could live up to expectations and at first I was slightly dissapointed with what appeared to be a mediocre film but by the end I loved it. Gripping story and the fact that it's all true makes it even more amazing. I think it's every mans dream to ditch the world as we know it and live off the land out in the wild, to exist only with nature and this film shows a man who was brave enough to carry out that dream. Respect! You will not be dissapointed.

Lacked a story line.

what a breath of fresh air this film is , based on a true story and a great story it is. A moving adventure, all the way through, cant rate this film highly enough, it just stands out a mile from some of the usual, heavy swearing and killing stuff. Sean penn directing , a very good job done. So what can i say rent it ,& absorb this very moving fab film.....

I was disappointed this film didn't show more of his life in Alaska, as this is what the trailer suggested the film was about. The film took us instead on a journey of this guy's life, which led him to live wild in Alaska. It's based on a true story and seems to be a journey about what makes us happy. Quite poignant in places.

Nowhere near as good as the film and in all honesty - I fell asleep watching it three times! Self indulgent and selfish. A bleak tale to say the least.

We watched this film not knowing much about it, we neglected to read the reviews and synopsis. So we had open minds as to what was about to happen. It is about a guy who shuns normal society and seeks his utopia. Like all good travel stories, it is the people he meets on the way and the experiences he has before he gets to his place. All in all a very good film - recommended!

I watched this while off work with the flu and found it thoroughly depressing. The film was annoying (we should all be out there on the road, funding our itinerant lifestyles with casual labour), and tedious (about half an hour too long). I had to strain to read the diary entries superimposed across the screen which gave me a headache. Based on a true story,but can only be an approximation of what actually happened. The whole thing seemed an exercise in futility. The scenery was nice.

The true and gripping story of young man who walks away from a normal, comfotable life where college, job and mediocrity is swapped for a life as a homelss, penniless wanderer....his riches come from the characters he meets on his journey and the beauty and brutality of nature and how he tries to survive on his own........

Blown away is all i can say this film has it all fantastic story fantastic script amazing acting this film get inside you and stirs your soul it almost reminds me of a more edgy forest gump I cant belive it has taken me this long to catch it I feel a year of my boring watching movie life has been highlighted by the fact that this is such a good flick no film I have watched for quite some time even comes close to this TRY IT AND BE CHANGED

I enjoyed the film much more than the book as the charactor came over as a much more amenable person in the film. I chose the book/film as I am into wilderness but it may be slow going for anyone who is not.

In a nutshell, this is a fantastic film. If you've ever thought of going travelling or exploring the world then this film will appeal to you. A great storyline followed by a highly-suprising twist. Following Christopher's amazing journey through the good times and the bad had me glued right till the end of the credits! If you like a film which gets you thinking about your own life and what you want to do with it, I'd highly recommend it!

OK i get differences of opinion but sometimes i think a film comes along that is just perfect... A bold statement granted, but i think that INTO THE WILD is one of those films. from beginning to end i was captivated. Moving, engrosing, beautiful and just generally one of the best things ive seen for a long time! it is safely up there as one of my favourites. I see INTO THE WILD as one of those things that has to be shared, passed along like a good book, like a great joke, or a memorable moment in life. Honestly, I'm sounding cheesy I know but i think its that good. I just want everyone i know to watch it and agree, infact i just want EVERYONE to watch it and agree. Perfect escapism for those who like to, have, or want to travel. If you want to just give up the life of work/sleep/work/sleep watch this film first!

I had no idea what to expect, other than this film had been recommended by Saga Magazine! The acting was simple and understated, no unecessary drama. The direction was perfect and imbued the movie with (again understated) atmosphere. I found it totally absorbing, very moving, honest and quite inspirational - with a touching simplicity. I was moved to tears and lifted to hope.

I have to confess that i am surprised my wife stuck this one out - not her usual cup of tea. However, those of you looking for film that is slightly heavy going in places but which leaves you asking questions later - give it ago.

Do not watch this film last thing at night if you are needing a good sleep! This is a beautiful, thought provoking, sad, inspiring film that has the most impact if you know nothing about it except the blurb on the back of the cover before watching it. One of the best films I've seen in years.

all i can say is persevere to the end of the film because it is worth it. i, like some of the othere people that have reviewed this film found it boring in parts, i even watched some of it on fast forward, however i hate being defeated by a film so i wated to watch it to the end. and i am so glad i did. you need to be in the right frame of mind to watch it. i think it is one of those films that you will never forget, even more so as it is a true story.

I sat down to watch this film with the best of intentions and while the scenery is amazing, the acting good, I couldn't help but look at my watch a couple of times. I had already bought the soundtrack as I am a big fan of Eddie Vedder, and I didn't know the story before viewing, which I am glad of, as the ending came as a surprise. I would encourage other people to watch it, but be prepared for the long haul.

I found this film quite dull, I probably was not in the right mind frame for it!

Weird film.....very slow, and not much going on. I was not sure whether or not it was a true story, but weird ending too. Not sure why I picked this, but wouldnt again.

At the end of this film all I could think was. Man that guy was a real a-hole- but I really enjoyed watching his story. I guess that is a testament to (ugh - it pains me to say it) Sean Penn, but as far as rambling, back to nature finding yourself road movies go this one got it pretty much perfect. It was never too dull or contrived, the scenery was beautiful without being a travelogue and the supporing cast including Katherne Keener and Vince Vaugh are superb. As a suggestion look up the real-life story afterwards. Fascinating.

A good thought provoking film which starts slowly but then picks up pace. It contains some really good actors even Hal Holbrook at 83 still a fine actor. Recommended.

Having read most of the reviews on here before renting, I would agree with many comments and as such shalln't repeat the crux of the story. Suffice to say it is certainly worth a viewing. My own thoughts are that the main character, although had the right ideals in his quest to be with nature, went about it in the wrong way.His thoughtlessness in not telling his parents what he was up to, how long he intended on being away and simply that he is ok (the missed phone call could have been successful at another date) draws on selfishness and disregard for their feelings, this extends towards his sister ( the narrator) who in the main assumes his love and reasons for doing what he did.The cinamatography is superb and the characters he encounters make this good viewing.

Oh my word, this film was one of the hardest to watch, that I've watched, in a long time.. and by that I mean I was taken aback by how hard the story hit me. Beautifully shot with a great script and fascinating acting by Emile Hirsch, and even though I never knew anything about the star of the film (Christopher McCandless) before actually seeing 'Into The Wild' I thought Hirsch captured what it would have been like for him brilliantly. A must see!

really enjoyable film - would highly recommend if you like something not so streamline

This is quite simply one of the best moving movies i have ever seen.A great story with a great actor in the main role.watch it.

stunning photography - superb soundtrack and some good characterization, really enjoyed this film. Whilst some aspects of the story 'grated' (e.g the lack of sensitivity in just disappearing) the bond made with people on the lads travels was nicely done, Emile Hirsch played the role extremely well and more than a few tears were shed at the sad, wasteful ending.

Thoroughly enjoyed this film. Supposedly a true story a bit far fetched at times. On the whole worth watching

this film felt like it went on for ever and ever and ever and ever. and was not worth the two and a half hours of my life it took up. All arty landscape scenes and not much else.

Really special film, was gripped from start to finish. Is a must for all serious film fans. One of the best films I have seen this year, highly recommended!!!

This film is I suppose, a round up of what all of us aspire to be; bold, different, have ambitions to do what we want - go against the grain. Something of a gentle adventure story along the same sort of lines as 'Rabbit Proof Fence' and 'The Straight Story'. If you are looking for entertainment without the usual Hollywood glitter, something to relax back in your easy chair, put your feet up in front of the fire with your pipe, slippers and cardigan while listening to the rain pitter patter against the glass, then look no further than Ino The Wild as it's charms will leave you pleasently inspired with maybe even a small tear in your eye.

If you appreciate something a little in-depth and enjoy the fact a film is based on true events then you will love this film. This film portrays the aftermath of an unhappy childhood and its psychological effects to all. It does start out a little odd but keep going it won't fail to impress! There is laughter and sadness and twists and turns, truly gripping !!

Didn't know what to expect with this film but we were pleasantly surprised. The scenery and landscapes were fantastic, some might feel it was a bit slow in places but that added to the state of mind of the main character.

My wife loved it, because she's a closet hippy, but I couldn't wait for it to end.

Watched it all, nothing special and a bit confusing at times. A bit of a pointless film really !!!!

Really loved watching this movie.

Good then beautiful then angry then lovely then beautiful again but ultimately quite sad. Worth seeing.

i very moving tale of a young man finding his way in society - with the ultimate goal to live outside it. a must see,

I read other peoples reviews before adding this to my rental list as i had never heard of this film before. when I received this I had an open mind about it as it has mixed reviews. It was a very long film which was good in places but I actually fell asleep mid way through, I managed to get to the end eventually and although i did fall asleep it was one of those films that I had to watch til the end, although i wouldnt watch this film again the ending did stay with me. Very long but quite moving at times, I think you need to judge this for yourself as its a love it or hate it film.

This film is slow, boring and far too long for the story being told. I forced myself to watch the whole thing (couldn't do it again) just to see how it would end. I won't spoil it if you insist on watching, but my advice is, give this one a miss unless of course you like watching paint dry.

I saw this movie last weekend and really enjoyed it! SEAN PENN is also a very capable Director, I think he really poured his heart into this film. Lovely cinematograhy, a good cast (EMILE HIRSCH is much better here than he was in SPEED RACER). It has a good supporting cast too: WILLIAM HURT, VINCE VAUGHN, HAL HOLBROOK and a good, atmospheric music score for the soundtrack. The only thing wrong with it is the sad ending, but hey it is based on a true story, so there you go.

This movie is based on a true story of a real person. Don't expect a blockbuster with special effects, a star studded cast, a great soundtrack, or even a top notch million dollar, polished to the bone, type script. If those are the only types of films you enjoy - you probably want to give this a miss. This is a sensitive movie for sensitive people about a man, who is in search of living life to the full, who had what most materialistic people would want, and.....well you will have to watch it to find out! Im a bit like him - I guess thats why I liked the movie. Looking for something more than money in my life too.

You wont find action or comedy here but what you will find, if you stick with it, a true story of a young man's journey to find a life without material needs. Beautiful landscapes and astounding acting shines from this film like a beacon and with a whole host of inspirational charcters its hard not to get drawn into this sophisticated and intelligent film. However it is a long story that many could find boring and overdrawn. However with a shocking ending that you dont see coming i was very impressed with this moral, very real drama.

Interesting and emotional, alternative type flick with an unexpected ending. Great US scenary and insight to people.

It wasn't as good as I was expecting, however it was an interesting film and amazing that it was a true story. Worth watching on a lazy Sunday.

This is one of the most inspirational/uplifting/heart wrenching films I have ever seen. The acting is flawless, and the cinematography is beautiful. The film follows the journey of a young man struggling again the oppression and obligations of society, and in particular, with his parents. Succumbing to his deepest desire, he leaves home without a word and takes the journey he has dreamt of, into Alaska. The people he meets along the way are inspired by this young man, and their lives are changed because of him. Sean Penn's direction is fantastic, and the editing of the film is perfect. The pace, as it changes from past to present does not distract the viewer from the plot, and one cannot fail to be left thinking about this film for weeks after watching it.

really good film ,great acting, would recommend.

Movie was not bad lacks interest to keep you focused

If you're looking for something different from the usual Hollywood action or romantic comedy, this might be for you. Based on the true story of a college student with promise who decides to reject society, the movie follows the character on his trek across America and onward to Alaska. His goal is to live through an Alaskan winter in the wild. Interesting stuff -- not high tech. or big budget, just something different. May particularly interest those who are disillusioned with - or perhaps sometimes question - the competitive, money-focused society in which we live.

I really enjoyed this film. Especially as I had not read about it before I watched it. At the end when I found out it was a true story it made it all the more compelling. Would recommend it to others.

We have just finished watching this film, and whilst in places it's bit, slow the character development is good, the scenery breathtaking and the ability to get inside Alex's head in the film is excellent, the only downside is it's very sad. But do watch it if you've ever felt the need to break away and go into the wild.

Excellent film, very thought provoking

Some films have a great story, some have great acting, some have a beauty and style about how they are shot. Some have all these things. A few also have something else. That something is a spirituality that lifts your soul and stays with you long after the film has fnished. This film has truly affected me in a positive way. It recounts for me the idealism of youth and the sheer pleasure of following a dream. Sit down with a loved one and go on a journey that should truly move you. Magnificent piece of work.

A thoroughly intriguing film. The story is quite unique and thought provoking - I couldn't believe it was a true story. The secenery is fantastic as is the acting. Would recommend this.

This film was recommended to us, so we rented it, expecting a superb blend of adventure and drama. What we struggled through was the most self-absorbed story I've ever seen. What made it worse was that the main character was presented in a positive light for doing what he did! If you want to watch a film about going 'into the wild', watch 'Dance with Wolves' and leave this film in the box where it belongs.

Took time to digest this film. Upon reflection it was slow but thought provoking.

this film had the potential to be amazing...... unfortunatly we felt it was an hour too long... we became dispondant... and failed to engage with the character for that length of time........ as for the old man..... we felt his prescence made one wish to climb every big hill in sight......he is haaaaaard.

but very sad and very long movie over 2H45 it's got long bit it could have been done in 1H30 or 2 hours it's would have been better.

Spellbinding, Sean Penn masterpiece!

Took some time to think of what to write about this film that would do it justice, but i simply couldnt. Even after watching it last night, i still want to cry every time i think about this film, and whilst thinking back to other films to try and compare this to them, classing it as 'one of the best films i have ever seen' i find it extremely difficult to categorise it with anything else i have watched under that same heading. So much so, that i would class it as 'the best film i have ever seen'. The film is so real and you are so drawn into the film and into his life. I would recomend that everyone watches this. The film doesnt have a feel good factor ending to it and has an extremely sad and heartfelt feel, but with the exception to the ending, you are almost living the life of Alexander Supertramp, and what a life it is too. To give it anything less thatn a 5 star would be an insult. Emile Hirsch plays the role amazingly well and as a method actor, he has given the story the upmost respect it deserves. If i watch this film a thousand times before i die it will never be too many times. I recommend this to the world!!!!!!!!! God rest your soul Christopher McCandless AKA Alexander Supertramp XXX

I found this film to be self indulgent and sad. It's about a self pitying adolescent who doesn't get on with his parents. Nothing new there, then. It contains no redeeming features except for some rather lovely portrayals of nice people. All I can say is that there are better ways to get over conflict with your mum and dad - the best thing he did was to give $24000 to charity. The film is really about a remarkable waste of a young life. The acting is good, the narrator is annoying, the cinematography is evocative. But not a film I'd recommend.

Brilliant movie - notwhat I expected.!! It was exciting funny dramatic and emotional all at once. Briliant

This is a very thought provoking film which will stay with you a long time after watching it. Fantastic scenery and great perfromances, most of this film is factually correct as it is based on a true story. I guarantee you will be moved by the ending.

a bit slow and jumps around a lot, but makes you think about whats important in life

this film is strong stuff. very strange and unsettling, and will stick in your memory. an orignial.

Mesmerising and achingly beautiful. If the story doesn't get you then the scenery will. Unspeakably moving.

Sean Penn's latest directorial effort is perhaps his most mature and accomplished to date, being the biopic of Christopher McCandless, a young American graduate who abandoned his life to go, yup, into the wild - in a very literal sense. He dubs himself Alexander Supertramp and abandons all his earthly possessions, bar those he needs to travel, and sets off on his own quest - his destination Alaska. Emile Hirsch plays McCandless with a kind of sophisticated innocence - for one so young, McCandless possessed a feverish intellect and determination, and Hirsch nails the character with such aplomb that it really is a career-forming performance (I guess the only way is down...). He's not alone, with Penn filling out the rest of the cast (in what are all essentially mini-extended cameos - this is Hirsch's show for sure) with quality actors - William Hurt gives a powerful, standout performance as the father of McCandless jnr, a depiction of an unravelling, flawed parent that is good enough to erase Hurt's jokey cameo in A History Of Violence. Penn's visual style is spot on, depicting America's luscious wilds with a respect & love that highlights the power and the beauty and danger of such a landscape - which ultimately claims McCandless' life. A superb and moving tale, this is inspiring as it is moving.

Great telling of a true story. Enjoyed it very much though found it sad and the ending unexpected. Fantastic locations.

Sad story but doesn;t make that an interesting enough film.

I'm a man of few words so I'll be brief. WATCH THIS, WATCH IT NOW.

Performances: Very Good. (1 star). Characters: Very Good (1 star). ActionStory: Very Good (1 star). Scenery: Very Good (1 stars).

A real surprise for me. I thought Sean Penn did a great job dealing with an emotional battle. It was very poetical and beautifully shot. Emile was a great lead.

I really enjoyed this movie. I didn't know anything about it so didn't know what to expect but it's just a great story of one guys life, and how his life affected quite a few others but it is told in a nice subtle way and it gets you quite emotionally involved too. When I found out at the end it was a true story, a tear filled my eye. All you can do with this film is enjoy it.

This is quite a disturbing film. It lingers for days and left me feeling fairly melancholy. Mistakes were made, with consequences.

Excellent, evoked mixed emotions, totally unexpected ending.

The first 30 mins of this film I wanted to turn it off, but as I continued watching it I really enjoyed it, this is a really good film and I recommend it

Even though the movie frooze twice and I had to go past to get them to work I don't think I missed much. Very Slow

This film has an interesting premise but is so pretentious I defy anyone to watch more than 40 minutes before your eyes start to itch and your brain screams 'NO MORE!'. Mind you, coming from Sean Penn what else did I expect. Poor.

I did not expect this to be such a great film and was more than impressed. I rate it as the best film I have seen in a year

A beautifully shot film, which shows off the delights of Alaska and other parts of the US well. However the film seems slow and therefore feels very long. The concept of throwing off modern consumerist life for a freer and more self sufficient existence in the wild, and at times on the streets, is beautifully illustated and well executed. However, I felt a distinct lack of empathy with our lead character, and therefore found his adventures self-indulgent and without meaning. I did not buy the main concept of the film as felt that it was simply 'running away from home', parading as looking for 'something more'. This feeling was enforced by the input we get from his little sister, who is very close to him, yet is left at home to deal with the impacts of his actions.

Stick with this film... I really took a dislike to the main character and wanted to turn the film off half way through, but actually, having stuck with it, I am really pleased that we rented this DVD. It's a bit of a tear jerker at the end.

Maybe I was in the wrong frame of mind to watch this, but I felt let down by this film. After the positive reviews surrounding Into the Wild, and recommendations from friends, I was expecting an epic tale. What followed was an over-long story of a self-righteous University Graduate's struggle to be a part of society. The journey the academic travels produces some stunning landscapes, but I found myself becoming increasingly frustrated by Christopher McCandless' apparent selfish attitude.

I absolutely loved this film. In the beginning i thought it was going to be a very slow film that would have no particular story. As the film progresses, it really does turn into a beautiful film....I won't say anymore as i'll ruine it for you, RENT IT, you won't be sorry!!

I was not sure about renting this movie and after watching it I'm still puzzled by it. Overall my opinion is, however, quite negative. Positive side: great landscape, really good music, good actors and above them all, Emile Hirsch delivering a great performance. Negative side: too long! 140 mins!?! Come on! Do producers think that adding pointless minutes of film will justify the entrance ticket to the movie? Is this the reason behing this ubiquitous stretching of the running minutes? What I didn't like the most is the attempt to turn the main character in some sort of hero, a spiritual guide for the new century. Far from that: he was a spoiled clueless middle-class kid, he was a coward that escaped and ran away from his problem, going around despensing wisdom about love, while leaving his sister and parents in the dark of his whereabouts. Cynically, however, one could say he was the perfect selfish hero for the modern selfish society we live in.

Good storyline, very touching although seemed to drag on a little in the middle part of the film.

Very thought-provoking film, especially as based on a true story. The acting is wonderful and the end was very unexpected and very moving - floods of tears at our house! If you every need to watch a film to appreciate the important things in life, then this is it. Not fast or action packed, so certainly not a film that everyone will rate highly.

Interesting true life tale, if over long and a bit disjointed. It did set me thinking what I would do if I was in a similar situation.

This film was beautifully made and really touching, all the more so because it told a true story.

This film was my favourite film that i saw all 2008. It camputured the essesnce of adventure and exploration. The Charecters in the film are all briliant and the relationships that the main charecter forms along the way are very well portrayed and wholsome. i would strongly recomend this film to anyone as it is brilliant.

Good film but I felt that it was more about the journey to go on a journey than actually anything much about Alaska which was not as I expected. Worth watching - sad end.

This film is excellent, it had me captivated. Very sad though but it is based on a true story.

If you are looking for breathtaking cinematography, inspirational relationships brought to life, along with the characteristic depth and passion that Penn is so famous for ... I predict that you will love this film.

The most amazing part is that it's based on a true story. Definitely a mind-blowing watch!

an incredibly sad but excellent film.

a long film that you can get your teeth into for a change.

Really, really good film, very thought provoking and some amazing cinematography.

If you are looking for something new and slightly different this is a good one. Made more interesting because it is based on a true story...i think this film is highly appropriate for our time, one in which we are all struggling for a place in the world and getting a bit pissed off with society and proof that running away is not always the answer!!

hi good story main actor brill good quality disc i enjoyed wife watched for 1 hour then lost interest

Really enjoyed this film. Beautifully shot, inspiring and suprising. A road trip and voyage of discovery with a difference. The fact that this is based on a true story makes it all the more moving.

A beautiful poetic look at a young carefree life. Takes you back if you've ever been on the road and a great film for literature lovers with insightful quotes throughout.

what a great film,who would not like to live like that.

Absolutely cracking film, makes you want to re evaluate your life and take a risk, true story also which makes it more awesome... One definately to see

What happens when idealism and idiocy cross paths? This film's hero is a screwed-up, idealistic idiot who goes to Alaska to escape society, despite not having the slightest clue how to survive. It's an entertaining film, beautifully shot, with some great characters along our idiot's journey. The film plays up the idealism and plays down the blatant idiocy of our lead idiot, but it's still worth watching.

An amazingly poignant and meaningful film with the power of a true story as well as visually stunning. Anyone who has a brain and likes to think when viewing a film must see this.

Excellent film, I rented it due it being directed by Sean Penn and I thought it was great.

I watched this with my kids who started out thinking -oh no mum's rented us a really boring movie but by the end we were all enthralled. Escapism to the extreme but none the less brilliant. Would definitely recommend amongst the serious films to watch.

This is the first film I received from Lovefilm. I think this is the beginning of a beautiful relationship. If you thoroughly believe that a life lived well is about linear progress through school, college, uni, work, courtship, marriage and so on 'til death then this film is not for you. On the other hand, if you're a dreamer who believes there just might be another way then watch this. Admire the portrayal of Chris's zestful love of life and nature with the landscape of the American West providing the best possible backdrop. Watch it, consider how you want to spend the rest of your life and perhaps make that change you always wanted. Critics said this film was full of cliches. Well here's another one just for them, 'You're a long time dead.'

this movie certainly made me think more about surviving in this world without material things. i didn't expect the ending which was very sad. have some tissues handy.

Music and film stayed with me for many days after viewing. Excellent acting was matched by glorious cinematography and thought-provoking story. If you've not called your parents in a while you will after this...

This is the sort of film that you almost make yourself watch, because the plot doesn't sound exciting or inspiring. However, what it leaves you with is more meaningful and lasting than most of the rest. It cleverly, and often beautifully, takes you on a journey. It is a 'time out' film that forces you to step back and consider what is important in life without preaching at you. At times it is slow and almost documentary in style, but I watched this film two days ago and keep thinking about it since....surely this is the sign of a great film.

Glad to have watched this well shot film. Going to have to read the book now!

I really enjoyed this film, knowing it was a true story made it better for me. I would recommend this film although i understand its not everyones cup of tea.

I'm afraid this wasn't for me, found it quite dull & boring.

How anyone could not like this film is beyond me. The story is so thought provoking, beautifully shot and great direction from sean penn, up there with my favourites!

The main Charater beleives he is outcast from his current society and family, and decides upon an anverture of the most extreem. This is able most for any soul searcher or intrepid traveller/wannabe. Cracking watch, the kind of film that you leave the credits running while you absrob what actually happed in the last couple of hours.

A must see film... Emile was made for this role, an amazing true life story of a mans desire to live in the wilds of Alaska and his journey to get there, all the people he met on the way and his relationship with them. Once in Alaska he has to hunt for his own food and is totally on his own.... Beautifully filmed and a great soundtrack.

This was great and slightly disturbing viewing, the story was well told and really got me in the pit of my stomach a big hit in my book.

Well what can i say this film bought a tear to my eye its beautifully breathtaking a real solid film. It draws you in the first 10 minutes and leaves your jaw at your ankles.Emile Hirshe stars as the leading lad who just dosent give a fuk about the materialistic world and wants to be free so sets his goals on alaska and treks there meeting wonderful people on the way. Sean Penns Directional masterpiece.

I thought I was taking a bit of a risk with this film, having read some of the other reviews BUT, it was, in my opinion, absolutely brilliant, first class stuff. Yes, it's about a college grad who has hang-ups with his parents, blah blah blah.....but it goes sooo much deeper than that. This guy, trying to excape his parents (and himself?), trying to discover himself (and his parents?) eventually realises the Truth of Reality......well, a small part of it anyway. Stunning scenery, beautiful narration - just an ace movie. Watch it and see!

This was a great idea for a movie. The characters were really well developed. However Sean Penn needs to think about the length of time in each scene. I found myself looking at my watch near the end and was just starting to loose interest when it came to the end.

I had read the book first as you always try and do before watching the movie. But i felt that this movie was fantastic and made the story more enjoyable as the true story is only taken from accounts from others that met him on his way, I feel that the research and the acting and the movie in a whole was great. Did need over 2 hours to create the story, buy didnt feel ike it. Greta movie and worth the watch.

An overwhelming desire to see Alaska motivates a young man (Emile Hirsche) to give up his American suburban home life in search of self-fulfillment and independence and take to the road. His adventures lead us through some fantastic scenic parts of the USA and introduce us to some of the people of varied lifestyles and dispositions that he meets on his remarkable journey - as well as leading him to defy what he considers to be unnecessary authority where it would seem to hinder his progress. Director Sean Penn captures and communicates to us the inner feelings of his ambitious 'hero', records his highs and lows and leaves us - perhaps a little limp - after feeling we've literally been on the road with him through his joy and despair. Moral of story? Perhaps you should very carefully consider the true consequences in this day and age of trying to go it ... alone.

This film is about the internal struggles, the emotional wildnerness of Chris McCandless as a result of the external struggles and external wildnerness around him. It is about unleashing the understanding of who he really is, given the freedom to push himself, find himself and test himself. I envy the bravery of Chris - and I think, to enjoy this film, you have to at some point in your life, have had an understanding of the need to find out who you are, the purpose / meaning of life, specifically yours - and what makes you happy. This is the 'free spirits' film, the film for a philisophical audience. Much of the film is narrated in a fairly sombre reflective tone by Chris' sister and looks predominantly at the relationships Chris has prior and during his travels (whether he is present, or not) as well of course, as his relationship with himself and nature. It is not your typically uplifting 'man in nature' with great scenery film - it is more!

Loved this film. Great directing from Sean Penn, great acting from all involved - especially Emile Hirsch in the lead roll - and breathtaking photography throughout. Then there's the story - Christopher McCandless managed to pack more living into his short time on this planet than most of the rest of us will ever manage, no matter how long we live. All in all, a great way to spend two and a half hours. Highly recommended.

very good and thought provoking

Excellent really enjoyed this film worth watching. This was a shot in the dark but a coulpe of hours well spent, well acted and diirected, a film you can get involved in

I had this film recommended to me by a friend months before I saw it. I vaguely remembered what he said it was about and also whether or not it was based on real events. So I rented this title with little knowledge of what it was about. All I did know was that some kid gives up his worldly possessions in search of enlightenment on his own with no money and attempts to live off the land. From the opening scene with the lead kid's parents in obvious distress it became clear that this film might actually based on a true story. And so the endearing story of Alexander supertramp. Cleverly told through narration from his sister and flashbacks throughout the film showing alex growing up in a seemingly normal, if not formulated family leading to his eventual graduation and ultimate desire to set himself free 'into the wild' This is all I will say regarding the story. What I say to you is watch the film. Forget about everyday life and try and understand why alex does what he does without judgement. I guarantee you yourself have 'thought' about doing something similar at some point in your life, maybe for different reasons, but never acted and turned those thoughts into 'reality'. I was dissapointed to see negative feedback towards this film, especially those that thought sean Penn was being self indulgent. The director shows great empathy towards alex's family in the portrayal of all the characters not just that of emile hirsh's who I feel puts in a brilliant performance. Other highlights are vince vaghns performance, although short, is the best i've seen in a very unusual role for him. Cinematography is brilliant, showcasing the beauty of some of Americas finest locations. I felt this was especially important for the film for the simple reason that this is what the story is about.... Freedom. I'm aware sean Penn has his critics but considering the subject matters sensitivity I think he's done the film justice and I hope has given alex's family some sort of closure on what must have been a painful, massively difficult process for them to endure. A film packed full of the highs and lows of human emotions and endevours. I must add that I hadn't read any previous reviews before I rented this. After viewing it, I have to admit I was moved by the story and particularly the ending which I have to say I was not expecting. I hope I haven't given away anything in this review like others have. Highly recommended.

really good film.it was just so real and the acting was superb.never really took much notice of sean penn as a director,however i will now.i just wished the ending hadent happened the way it did.iam so impressed that i am buying it.it make you feel good that there are some human beings that arent controlled by material things in life.

Brave. Epic. Beautiful.

Very good film, enjoyed it, but not one to watch if you are after a feel good film!!

Watch this film, its incredibly moving and beautifully put together. A truly brilliant story that must have taken a great deal of effort to put together and is a master-piece as a result.

Good film. If your heading to the US for a bit of traveling, this would make a great appetiser. Some beautifully shot panoramics of the american wilderness and a great snapshot of american society.

The central roles are played warmly and well, generating genuine sympathy for the characters. You often feel your on the journey along with the male lead and both my girlfriend and myself thoroughly enjoyed the ride.

For fans of Thoreau's Walden and critics of the materialism and the false promises of capitalism, this exploration of living simply, pure and free will inspire you to have a go and do it yourself!

Highly moving story makes you question the reasons for it all. The meaning of social structure, God, Love and Relationships. The realities of ones life is accentuated through the search of Chris or Alex as he called himself. I feel for his family, it's a truely great loss. After the film I was praying he didnot die or that it was not a true story ... until I saw the credits. I am still holding back the tears for the loss of such a truly wonderful and great character may the creator bless his soul and his family... Great acting by Emile ....

I was put off watching this film for a while buy its length (and my short attention span), but the 2 hours 15 mins flew by. A really thought provoking film - in a good way - it made me really want to change my shallow existence half way through the film, and then really NOT want to change my shallow existence by the end. Great scenery shots, really well acted and for me another eye opener at the end that it was a true story. i would've given it 5 stars but the schmaltzy narration got on my nerves sometimes, so if you can bear with that, its a film worth seeing.

Interesting to see how the idealistic life pans out in reality, with warnings of what can happen along the way. This is more interesting because it was a real life event. Great scenery, bit too much disjointed flashing back and forth. Quite enjoyed it though.

this film started slowly and didn't get any faster. don't make this put you off from watching. I found it enjoyable and easy to watch although it took me two days! I started watching late at night and needed to get up early the next morning. Cinematograpy was fantastic and if you have the time and inclination you may want to do the same as the films inspiration but maybe not the ending.......

The film plods along for more than an hour, during which time you begin to daydream and think about the other things you could/should be doing instead. If you manage to keep with it the film is quite gripping in the latter half.

This film is excellent - Based on a true story, directed by Sean Penn - Great! - initially the main character, Christopher McCandless, played by Emile Hirsch - I found to be on the arrogant side and I dont think I warmed to him initially but I think as the film went on there was a real braveness to his actions - It was quite an adventure he went on - and although most of the time the people he met were great characters - when confronted by authority/imposed structure, that was generally when things proved difficult/problematic and you could sense the discomfort he had with conforming to the 'Rat Race' and the enforced 'civilising' (as seen by authority I guess) of free spirits, travellers, homeless- (The city hostel experience). I thoroughly enjoyed the film but it was ultimately, staggeringly tragic - I couldn't get to sleep after watching it - But Im really glad I did watch it! -

Amazing scenary, but quite slow and a solatary film.

I must say that this was one of the best films I've seen for a while. The storyline was good, being funny and sad at the right times. The scenery shots were superb which contributed to an excellent overall viewing experience.

well put together film and some beautiful scenery.

spotted this movie on a trailer and it instantly took my interest, unfortunately I became quite disappointed as it wasn't the adventure I expected. It lacked drama and was very slow paced, what I would call a Sunday afternoon film that could send you to sleep.......

Had no idea what to expect when I added this DVD to my list. It is a film that very sensitively and truthfully tells the story of one young man who decided to abandan 'life' as the common man/woman knows it and head 'into the wild'. It generated many discussions and a purchase of the book that the film was based on. A breath of fresh air - no hollywood glamour, just one man's tragic, but very thought-provoking attempt to find a road in life that would result in answers and contentment.

At times not sure and then it just gets interesting - remembering it's based on a true story

i loved this film. the story and acting is just spot on. totally hooked. 75%

The lead character in the film goes on a journey both physically and mentally.Not happy with his suburban life living with his parents, whom have his future mapped out for him. He gives up everything and with basic essentials and no money sets of for trip onto the Alaska wilderness.The film is split into chapters through which his journey is describes and through which he meets some interesting characters and just when you take a liking to our main character your stunned by a twist of fate at the end say no more or it will spoil this exceptional movie youll be talking about this one for years to come.

This film is a must see for anyone who has ever thought of just packing a bag and going on an adventure! Only down side is it is sometimes a little hard to follow so you really have to concentrate. I loved it.

Basically the story of a naieve and selfish 21 year old acting like a spoiled teenager, writing terribly trite poetry and sharing his (and his sister's) not-so-great insights. I guess idolising their son this way was the family's way of atoning for their own role in this sorry affair. The characters are nauseating and 2 dimensional. Only the great photography of the great american outdoors redeems the film somewhat, but it's not enough to sustain for almost 2.5 hours.

This is an astuonding and very thought provoking film. Extremely well made, I believe, in that the plot was left open to the imagination throughout the film as the boy's interesting true life story revealed itself. Can't believe it was a true story....

A good film, but I felt a bit spoon fed... It didn't give me enough time to think for myself. But beautiful, moving and very thought provoking. Well worth a watch if you have ever considered trying to escape the binds of human relationships..

An amazing film I thought but harrowing and ultimately sad, incredible cinemaphotography and a star performace fron the young actor who portrays Mc Candless.Well worth watching if you can cope with a young man's painful search for the meaning of his life.

Not what I expected but stuck with it and became engrosed. A true story and I wish I could of taken the same trip.

Despite some longuers, do persist with this intensely moving film of the complexities, misunderstandings and challenges of the idealism of youth and of families and of relationships; a 'road' movie of sorts with a cast of characters both odd and genuinely affectionate. You will not fail to be moved by the ultimate denouement. Strongly recommended.

This Sean Penn directed film tells a rememberable tale with some great scenery. Based on a true story, you wonder if the film isn't slightly kind on the main character who behaved recklessly. It seems possible that he might have been more disturbed and not as together as shown. I always know how much I got from a film when it leaves me thinking long after.

There is a story somewhere behind the wanderings of this young man by the name of Christopher McCandless and the film does its level best to uncover it, but I was not entirely convinced of its entertainment value. It ran like a diary with pages missing. He seemed to be heading towards Alaska, but at one stage found himself hoplessly lost in Mexico and was required to tramp aimlessly northwards, with reflective throwbacks to his angst ridden upbringing. If it was purely fictional it would be without worth, but somehow the reality check was its sole redemptive element. My wife fell asleep and was less in tune with any praise I may seem to offer.

Story of a wild , philosophical fantasy. I liked the making . The ending was sad but I guess truth is never pleasant. This is not a 'feel good' kind of movie, but I am sure it will touch someone with an appetite for a good story.

A dark tale of a young man's life. It was thought provoking and it made one thinking of one's own life.

Me and my partner watched this after hearing some very mixed reviews. I kept an open mind although it was a bit of a 'boys' movie and seemed to last forever! However the moral of the story was very poignant and had an air of 'the true meaning of life'. It was moving and at times a little emotional (did I say it was a guy's film?) - overall definately worth renting!

A moving story with sensitive direction. The flash backs were cleverly integrated and the characters sensitively portrayed including the way individuals changed over the duration of the film. Quite a wide range of quirky supporting characters en route in the journey, all of them highly believable. Very good.

Riveting from start to finish with a fantastic performance from Emile Hirsch and a fine supporting cast. This is a film that will remain in your head for a long time after you watch it, leaving you with more than a few questions about how unfulfilling modern society has become. Great film making from director Sean Penn, showing that he is as good behind the camera as he is in front of it. Highly recommended to all.

Cant tell you how much i absolutely loved this film,one of the best i have seen since Shawshank. I am urging you all to watch it and be moved by the Scenery and the wonderful,touching often tear jurking story. A wonderful film that will linger with you.

So long and not as good as was expecting

I was recommended this by a friend known to rave about films I find over-rated so did view with a degree of trepidation. I was however pleasantly surprised. The film works best for me for when he is on the road specifically the relationships he forms with those on his travels. The scenery is breathtaking, the soundtrack beautiful and overall I found it a pleasant way to pass 2.5hrs.

Beautifully directed and acted; the cinematography is wonderful. This was based on a real person, and real events; possibly played up to the positive, but the haunting voiceover and poetic screenplay really added to the overall film.

I loved this film. I was totally absorbed in it from start to finish even though the first scene of the mother hearing her son's voice calling to her in the first scene gives away what will happen. OK - some of the sister's voicd as voice-over was a bit saccarine b ut for me I think it showed the total beauty and power of nature and how Alex had given up the modern materialistic life for this and who wouldn't?

Another Penn triumph. Brilliant handling of a very moving story

Absolutely loved it, deeply moving with some profound insights.

This film was so good. Hard to beleive it is a true story.

I just love the movie, and love the soundtrack even more! just beautiful!

Great scenery, bit too long for my liking, there wasn't enough content for the length of the film.Just ok really.

This film's plot is a little weak, but this is made up for with the smaller characters and the way it is made. The first thing I have to mention about Into The Wild is the soundtrack. The music fitted perfectly with the action, and complemented the plot every step of the way. At the beginning of the film I immediately assumed it was going to be very self-indulgent and therefore hard to get emotionally involved in. Once I got past this slightly irritating start to the film I began to realise how well the film is made. There are unusual shots, which emphasise the meaning of the film, which is ambiguous throughout. There are some shots that you may even want to watch again, such as the scene where the main character Chris has a shower, and there is just a simple headshot but done in such slow motion that you can see every detail on his face. His sister, who you see very little, narrates throughout, apart from when Chris describes his thoughts. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed a film which I was not so sure about, and the whole film is pretty inspiring. The direction is beautiful, and it really is a work of art, even if the story is a bit weak.

Good adaption of the book. Great scenery, well played lead. well worth seeing.

really good film, fantastic scenery, grat scenes, really enjoyed the characters and the acting was very good. fascinating story of one young man's quest to find happiness and peace with his family and the world. Incredible ending, very thought provoking and a little disturbing...don't be put off by that last bit, the film is definately one to watch but be warned that it packs a big punch...

God knows what the guy who reviewed this and gave it one star thinks qualifies as a good film. I'm guessing he is a fan of Girls Gone Wild and thought this might be part of that series, hence his disappointment. The truth is that this is an imaginitive, intelligent and profoundly affecting movie. Don't be put off by Sean Penn's involvement, because here he displays a sensitivity and subtlety that tends to be starkly absent in his acting. If you enjoy the work of Gus Van Sant and appreciated the darker bits of Little Miss Sunshine and Transamerica, this is for you.

This is a very enjoyable story, away from the ordinary. It is excellent at rendering the loneliness felt in the wild nature. Great sound track also, which doesn't hurt. Highly recommended.

quite a good film. i never realised that it is a true film, so makes it all the more poignant and upsetting with the ending though. i would recommend this film, although i thought that there could of been some more spiritual one liners which i feel it lacked. but i do recommend it and give it top rating.

It took a while, for me it was like reading a book that after 50 pages I was thinking of giving up on but by the end I couldn't put it down.

Lots of morals within the film. Well produced - excellent

simply sad. Although you have to have the patience to watch the movie, you know is going to end so badly for such a bright mind.

I enjoyed this film immensely and the soundtrack was excellent too. I recommend it to any one who enjoys the great outdoors!

A lovely moving film. Direction and cinematography light and gentle but deep and raw.It could easily have been precious or shmaltzy but it worked.The central performance felt so natural and true for a young man, fiercely independant and intelligent yet gauche and foolhardy. A story of fundamentally floored redemption.Great stuff.

It's a shame this film was just so boring! I wanted to like it, the scenery was spectacular, there were occasional episodes where the film lightened up and raised my interest, but the rest was just so very boring. And the end was awful.

I had heard really great things about this film, and it is such a great concept but personally I found the end very dissapointing. I know it is a true story but still Instead of being liberating it makes you feel that youre better of staying in the norm. I wanted It to have a more positive ending.

Great film, watched it with my boyfriend who loved it too. The actcing was excellent in places (check out the scene where the old man wants to adopt Alex), the story interesting for both of us, and the cinematography just blew us away. It's an intelligently put together film which made it so much more satisfying to watch, and makes a change from the usual fluff we end up watching.

Based on the life of Christopher McCandless, Into the wild is the account of his final years just from the moment he changes his name to Alexander Supertramp, leaves his middle class bourgeois past and promising future behind and embarks on a trip of... self-discovery. A mixture of an idealist personality and conflictive family life seemed to have had a big impact on the fate of McCandless, a fate that takes him to abandon all possessions and connections to with previous life and heads him to Alaska in search of spiritual growth and wisdom. Along the way, Alexander will encounter situations and meet characters, most of them also from the fringes of society that will define his journey and personality towards the final push, his intention to live in his own in the wild of Alaska. Sean Penn's directorial skills are on display. However we can object of the fact that he seems to idealise the life of McCandless as well. And the problem is that, what he and others can see as a brave example of personal freedom in the quest for wisdom, others can see it as the product of a conflicted mind, pushed to run away forward. The truth is that Alexander contemplated life in the wild as a challenge measured by nature, as a spiritual experience shaped by the Alaskan winter. He took serious risks and was unprepared. We will never know whether he calculated these risks. What it is also true is the fact that, after his fatal end and popularisation of his story, a new wave of adventurous young men attempts the Alaskan experience with certain regularity, 'the McCandless effect'.

Emile Hirsch is a hottie and he is in it ALL from start to end! GOOD TIMES

I went to see this film at the cinema and thought it was good. However the main character is not very likeable and so i did not enjoy watching it a second time.

Really enjoyed this movie.

We thought ths was really good. Unusual and a bit slow in places but in a strange way kept us intrigued. Thought provoking and the fact it was based on a true story, made it even more interesting.

If you are in the mood for a serious film on the meaning of life and what we are all doing with our lives this is the film for you. It's based on a true story which makes the film more poignant. Personally speaking this film makes you think and I like that in a movie.

Loved this film. It is watchable on quite a few different levels. I think you'll find that some people may just watch it for the clear linear storyline that is quite easy to follow. However, there are some underlying themes. The one i noticed was that the film seems to constantly point to relationships. Constantly the main character is involving himself in relationships. These are very well acted and can be moving. I won't spoil it for you though. Excellent film. I already want to watch it again.

This was very good viewing. An inspirational story.

a good film to watch, ending does weaken the film tho, butbased on true story, so fair enougth!

Havent seen a decent film like this in so long. Bored to tears of the usual rubbish. This is a fantastic story and extremely moving and thought-provoking. Made even better by the fact it is based on a true story which i didnt know until the end. Cannot rate this high enough. Have already told loads of friends about it.

Havent we all had a hankering to opt out and get away from it all.A lovely film, but cant say too much as it would spoil it.

enjoyable film with a realistic outcome

What a wonderful character Alexander Supertramp is. However, if Hamlet-like angst is not your thing then this isn't the film for you. It's an old tale of offspring disappointed by parents so striking out and doing their own thing. However, his Hamlet style wailing about his parents is coupled with a Jack Kerouac style journey. While the protaganist may reconcile his disparate ideas of parental loathing and filial love, it is sure to end in tragedy and the film doesn't disappoint. Slow paced and not all that thoughtful, for all it's prentensions. Still an enjoyable watch if you don't scratch too deeply at the flaws.

fascinating film/documentary easy to watch relaxing with great scenery and music to accompany it. Did not realise it was a true story until the end which made the film even more fascinating. Watched it twice enjoyed it that much

Nice cinematograohy if a little 80's soft rock music video-esque!. Nice story if a little sad at the end. Generally just nice but nothing to write home about!

Relying on the stars and Readers Reviews, I foolishly selected this movie to rent. Please learn from my experience. If you like juvenile stories and cinema cliches, then this silly account of a young man's rambling travels and infantile philosophies is for you. But it is NOT my idea of sensible and mature cinema. Perhaps I should have been suspicious when I noted that it was directed by actor Sean Penn. I really hope he sticks to his old job and remains an actor. I woulkd give this film ONE STAR.

Anyone who just rates this film as 'boring' is soul-less. It is a very real film, not run-of-the-mill - and totally different to any film I have seen before. You have to stick with it, and follow the journey of the main character - it shows some amazing places and characters, and the better side of humanity without being over sentimental. For the 'gypsies' out there its one to watch! Some great travelling!

A little gem of a film, beautifully directed by Sean Penn.

Really enjoyed this film, and keep thinking about it.

Slow to get going but after about half way I was glad I stayed with it. It was very moving and meaningful. What that boy put himself through! I really wanted it to turn out good for him.

A surprising amazing film which left us profoundly moved. Definately worth watching.

Brilliant! This film proves to be very thought provoking. It highlight the importance of being true to your self proving material values are insignificant for a fulfilled life. Although it may be a little slow in places a plesant change to watch a film that rellies on its storyline rather than special efects. Mr Penn seems to have talent, I will be looking out for more of his fillms.

An one to watch film.....loved it and the soundtrack is fantastic too.... A well watched film and would recommend this to all One to def watch

Slow but persevere it is good

If you are a spiritual person and looking for wee snippets to fit together an understanding of life, this could be the life story for you! Alexander McCandless is portrayed as a thoroughly decent person. I will watch this movie several times.

Beautifully shot and emotionally wrenching, this was a wonderful experience. Sean Penn has taken the true story of 'Alex Supertramp' and dissected it to explore what it means to be human and the nature of society, amid America's spectacular natural vistas. Christopher McCandless walked away from his Havard-educated future to wander across America, always heading towards his 'great Alaskan adventure'. He comes across as both wise, inspired and inspirational (through his impact on those he meets on his journey) and simultaneously naive and selfish (through the devasting effect his disappearance has on his family). I didn't know the ending to this story and if you don't know, don't find out before watching this!

Really enjoyed this film... Excellent portrayal of a complex young mind. A very moving story, sensitively and beautifully told. Great cast. Highly recommend.

Very enspiring true story, excellent film would recommend it.

This film was a little slow going

I loved this gentle thought-provoking true life story.

As indie Hollywood goes it's a decent film. The 3 stars are for sweepingly beautiful cinematography, accomplished direction and a remarkable performance from Emile Hirsch as Christopher McCandless. The latter is part of my problem with this film ironically. The McCandless story immortalised in Jon Krakauer’s book has been glorified to some extent and from the reading I have done his status as brave, free-thinking hero is not shared by all Alaskans. I’m not sure whether Penn intended any critique of the McCandless mythology, though I suspect not. But Hirsch delivers that critique anyway in finely nuanced performance. McCandless may have been a wounded and principled soul but Hirsch's reveals a young man who was also utterly self-absorbed and profoundly judgemental. Ultimately he had no real respect for the natural world he claimed to love – nobody with any respect for the landscape trots off into the Alaskan wilderness as completely ill-equipped as McCandless did. In the end I just didn’t like McCandless and although that's a testimony to Hirsch's superb performance, unfortunately I enjoyed this film less because of it.

It's not giving too much away to mention that this is the true story of a young man who left home without leaving a trace just after graduation. In many ways it's a hippy film about self-discovery, and I loved it. There are some seriously good cameos by unknown actors and non-actors, fabulous photography of America and, for me, a deep message. Don't be put off by some of the reviews here; this is an intelligent movie.

Very powerful and moving film which shows the vulnerability of youth. Smashing scenery and interesting characters. Definitely not a feel good film, almost a weepie!

I expected good things from Into the Wild from reviews i'd read and the indie film-style direction did make the film rather pretty to watch. This doesn't make up for the 2 hours of my life full of boredom and thoughts of 'why the hell is this guy doing this?' as the attempts made to explain this were in my eyes quite lame.

Fantastic scenery, deeply moving, soul searching story. A worthy tribute to such a brilliant, insightful and poetic young man.

Stuff happens to a guy.....in the wild. Then he dies. Bummer Should have taken a map

Different a refreshing change

A bit slow, but stick with it. One of the best films I've seen in a long time!

- Inspires you to be brave and travel cross country

wow, what an incredible film, the amazing true story of Christopher McCandless is a must see and really well portrayed by Emile Hursch. If you're the kinda person that just wants to quit their job and get out into the world (might give you the motivation to do just that), or love having you're own adventures you're gonna love this movie, it will leave a big impression on you and really makes you think. If you liked this film get yourself a copy of the book it has a couple extra bits that couldn't fit into the movie and contains a lot of facts about supertramps adventure. :)

I loved this film, and all the better because it was based on a true story. It was brilliant acting by Emile Hirsch, and I thoroughly recommend anyone to see it!

Stunning scenery combined with creative cinematography make this a great film

I found it quite slow to start but entertaining and interesting later on. A sad ending, didn't realise it was a true story and it stayed on my mind for a few days.

Absolutely humbling breath taking and fabulous acting, I want to be a hippy now!

i really enjoyed this film, it had me engrossed all the way through it , the scenery was amazing too. The sound track was a bonus because i love Eddie Vedder's voice

'Into the Wild' is, above all, thought-provoking, to the extent that I keep running over its sentiments three days later! There is nothing overtly thrilling or exciting about the structure or tone of the film - it doesn't happen chronologically but is played retrospectively with a clear narrative to determine time - and it has a philosophical, questioning theme. Chris, the protagonist, is fulfilling the eternal adolescent, and adult, search for an inner, higher meaning to his pre-planned existence as an academic success and Wasp heritage. As a character he constantly strives to become enlightened but without appearing morally superior to others or totally out of touch with society, as his 'journey' includes several connections with others before he finally roams Alaska entirely alone. The film is visually stunning and thoughtfully directed and the employment of a leading Hollywood actor for the role of Chris would have only served detrimental to the end result. I wouldn't say that the film is life changing - its performances are thorough, its theme engaging - there is nothing overwhelmingly dramatic or emotive about it. However, there is something about it that stays with you. Please watch during the day or suffer the consequences as it plays with your mind all night!!

Really enjoyed this film, all the actors especially the lead were terrific. Surprising ending, as I didn't know the story, but still brilliant.

it is a shame to think that this bloke had so much in life at his fingertips but he turned away at every opportunity. I gave this a 4.5 simply because I couldn't turn this off until I saw this guy completely screw everything up. In a nutshell, guy leaves college, his family and a perfectly decent life in search of absolutely nothing, finds it and then dies. The end