Director: Nick Ryan
Running time: 95 mins
Synopsis: An investigation into, and re-enactment of, the events that took place in August 2008, when a group of international mountain climbers attempted to reach the peak of the formidable K2. Only half of the initial group of 22 made it home alive, in what is the worst single accident in the history of K2 mountaineering.
Nick Ryan offers a stark and painstakingly detailed insight into this epic tragedy through a mixture of recreations, archive footage, home-made footage, and interviews with survivors. He also speaks to the family members and loved ones of those whose lives were sadly taken on that fateful day.
The main story he attempts to uncover is what happened to mountaineer, Ger McDonnell, who became the first Irishman to reach the summit of K2, before mysteriously disappearing during the descent. In this respect he fails, through no fault of his own, because it is virtually impossible to draw substantial conclusions from the information he is given. The dire effects of the dangerously low temperatures and high altitude on the group’s bodies and minds are terrifying, and ultimately leads to a lot of finger-pointing, conflicting accounts, and fragmented memories from the weary witnesses.
Although inconclusive in this respect, the documentary does answer some of the questions raised in cases involving the other climbers. Furthermore, the alluring imagery, thorough research, and emotive content does ensure a gripping and distinctly human story. Some of the life-or-death decisions that had to be made on the expedition are spoken about candidly, and acted out with unflinching realism, resulting in a feeling of such profound respect for what these brave people went through, and for the beast that is K2.
Although it is frustrating to not find out exactly what happened to everyone, the facts and the opinions of the crucial parties involved are presented in great detail, which is all you can ask of a comprehensive documentary. The result is a brutal but fascinating affair.
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