This film is the true story of the climb of the North Face of Eiger by German climbers in 1936. Because the film is set during the buildup to World War II, the climbers face not only the natural elements and the only rock face in Europe that has yet to be ascended, they also have to deal with the politics of Nazi Germany. The two men were tasked with not only a potentially deadly climb, but also with proving the superiority of Germans and the Reich. An intense film that you might have missed!
German filmmaker Philipp Stolzl directed the taut mountain climbing thriller ‘Nordwand’. Titled ‘North Face’ in English, ‘Nordwand’ is a film with two stories. Our protagonists, played by career actors Benno Furmann and Florian Lukas, are alpine specialists of renown. They have been considering a climb of the North Face of Eiger for some time. A reporter and life-long friend, portrayed by Johanna Wokalek, sees the potential for a sensational story should they become the first people to ever make this ascent. The German government also sees them as a propaganda tool for the Nazi regime. The film contrasts the physical challenge of climbing with the political climate in Europe quite well.
The political and personal stories of these characters are interesting, but the film takes off, literally and figuratively, when the men begin their climb. The fourth star of ‘Nordwand’, the North Face of Eiger itself, comes into view and the heartstopping thrills begin. The mountain sequences are amazing! Two other climbers, hearing of this attempt, begin to tackle Eiger ahead of the German duo. ‘Nordwand’ is at its cinematic best as it tells of the rivalry between the teams, the unbelievable difficulty of the climb and the battle with the elements without the benefit of modern equipment. In 1936 they had little more than rope and wool sweaters with which to climb the only remaining unconquered mountainous wall in Europe. 6,000 feet of rock and ice!
The movie has done a decent job of sticking to the facts, with only a little rearranging of the moments and players. The secondary plots are interesting and well done. The climbing sequences are a beauty to see and a thrill to follow. Just like the crowds of people in the valley below, watching with telescopes for a close look at our Alpinists and the race to the top, you will be mesmerized by this fantastic story. It is intense and raw, but true to life and quite powerful.
Side note: The film is in German. I have not seen a dubbed version. I prefer cinema in its original language, but this may be difficult if you can’t stand subtitles. Also, since 1935, the north face of the Eiger has claimed the lives of at least 64 climbers, earning it the German nickname Mordwand, or "The Murder Wall". Finally, ‘Nordwand’ is currently available, for free, on Tubi.
Sounds good.