Touching the Void

Touching the Void recounts the harrowing story of Joe Simpson and Simon Yates, two British mountaineers who climbed the Siula Grande in the Peruvian Andes in 1985. Directed by Kevin Macdonald, it combines interviews with Simpson and Yates alongside dramatic reenactments of their perilous journey.

The documentary follows the climbers as they successfully ascend the previously unclimbed 21,000-foot peak. However, their triumph quickly turns to tragedy during the descent when Simpson falls and breaks his leg. Despite this setback, Yates attempts to lower his injured partner down the mountain. As conditions worsen, Yates faces an impossible decision when he finds himself unable to pull Simpson up from a cliff edge, ultimately choosing to cut the rope to save his own life.

Presumed dead, Simpson miraculously survives the fall into a deep crevasse. The film chronicles his extraordinary fight for survival as he crawls and hobbles for three days without food or water across treacherous terrain to reach their base camp. Meanwhile, Yates grapples with the guilt of his decision and the criticism he faces from the climbing community upon his return.

Through intimate interviews and gripping reenactments, the documentary provides a visceral account of human endurance and the complex moral dilemmas faced in extreme situations. It explores themes of friendship, survival, and the psychological impact of life-threatening experiences. It also offers insight into the world of mountaineering and the risks inherent in pushing the boundaries of human achievement.

By presenting both Simpson’s and Yates’ perspectives, the film offers a nuanced portrayal of the events, allowing for a deeper understanding of the choices made during their ill-fated expedition.