Whether you’re experiencing the joy of another lockdown, impacted by travel restrictions or simply in the very middle of a chilly winter, many of us in the Southern Hemisphere are finding it a little harder than usual to get our adventure fix.
The good news is modern technology is here to save us! And no, we’re not talking about fantastic technical gear to keep you warm in the great outdoors – although that’s one option. We’re talking about the kind of adventure that you can enjoy while snuggled up on your couch with a hot glass of mulled wine…
Here are some of our favourite adventure movies to enjoy this weekend.
Wild
Where to watch: Disney+
If you’re after adventure movies, Wild is one of the best. Bringing Cheryl Strayed’s bestselling memoir to the big screen, Wild tells the true story of one woman’s long walk out of addiction, grief and her own destructive behaviors. Strayed (Reese Witherspoon) is woefully unprepared for her 1100 mile (1770km) hike of the Pacific Crest Trail, enduring horrifying blisters, an almost comically large backpack and some unwelcome encounters along the way… but that’s kind of the point.
The Dawn Wall
Where to watch: Netflix
An extraordinary documentary which follows two American climbers, Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson, as they attempt to free-climb The Dawn Wall, Yosemite’s most formidable (and unclimbed) rock formation.
Evocative, captivating and an extraordinary testament to the human spirit, you won’t be able to turn this one off.
Tracks
Where to watch: Netflix
A young Australian woman plans to walk 2000 miles (3218 km) across the desert from Alice Springs through WA to the Indian Ocean. This incredible true story, starring Mia Wasikowska as Robyn Davidson and Adam Driver as National Geographic photographer Rick Smolan, is as understated as it is beautiful.
Our Planet
Where to watch: Netflix
A breathtaking documentary series about our planet, narrated by David Attenborough. The whole family will love it.
Free Solo
Where to watch: Disney+
If you haven’t seen the Oscar winning Free Solo yet, put it on this weekend’s to-watch list. You’ll be on the edge of your seat as you watch professional rock climber Alex Honnold attempt to free climb (that is, without ropes, a harness or any other protective equipment) the world’s most famous rock… the 3200ft El Capitan, in Yosemite National Park.
Everest
Where to watch: Netflix
This thrilling adventure follows the devastating true story of the 1996 Everest expedition, which saw two groups of climbers encounter serious challenges as they attempt to summit Everest… and get home again. Break out the tissues, you’re going to need them.
