The Alpinist
An intimate documentary of a young visionary who followed the trail of his passion despite the heaviest of possible consequences.
2 min
The Alpinist
As the sport of climbing turns from a niche pursuit to mainstream media event, Marc-André Leclerc climbs alone, far from the limelight.
Synopsis
As the sport of climbing turns from a niche pursuit to mainstream media event, Marc-André Leclerc climbs alone, far from the limelight.
Intrigued by these quiet accomplishments, filmmaker Peter Mortimer (The Dawn Wall) set out to make a film about Marc-André. But the Canadian soloist is an elusive subject: nomadic and publicity shy, he doesn’t own a phone or car and is reluctant to let the film crew in on his pure vision of climbing.
As Peter struggles to keep up, Marc-Andrés climbs grow bigger and more daring. Elite climbers are amazed by his accomplishments, while others worry that he is risking too much. Then, Marc-André embarks on a historic adventure in Patagonia that will redefine what is possible in solo climbing.
The Alpinist shows climbing in all its glory
© Scott Serfas
Marc-André Leclerc
© Scott Serfas
Bedding down in the great outdoors
© Scott Serfas
Marc-André Leclerc pushes the boundaries of climbing
© Matt Van Biene
Upon hearing of the under-the-radar climber, veteran filmmaker Pete Mortimer (The Dawn Wall) sets out to try to connect with him.
He finds Marc living in a tent in the woods with his girlfriend, Brette Harrington, who’s an elite climber in her own right. Pete learns of Marc’s background and films him on a series of jaw-dropping solo climbs on rock and ice. But to Marc, these incredible climbs are just preparation for his true passion: solo expeditions on big, frozen peaks. Blown away by Marc’s natural talent, Pete is more determined than ever to capture him redefining what is possible in the mountains.
The Alpinist is an intimate documentary of a young visionary who followed the trail of his own passion, despite the heaviest of possible consequences.