Climb Documentary
The first words in Climb are delivered against a black screen: “What you’re about to see is a love story. It won’t seem like it at first, but be patient. You’ll see.” At first, it is difficult to imagine how this becomes a love story, but that’s just one of the many surprises the film holds.
Backstory
The film starts with amateur triathlete Neil Myers on his way home after a grueling training session on a Tour de France-class climb in Santa Barbara, Calif. He rounds a blind turn (at 35 mph) and finds a truck – in his lane – coming right at him.
There is no chance to react. The accident lasts less than a second, leaving Neil with 11 broken bones in 26 places and fighting for his life. What follows is the story of how Neil survives, fully heals, and rehabilitates.
So far, so good, but where is the love story? It would have been easy for Climb to be a “super hero” story – Neil navigating animpossible journey back against all odds. But it is so much more than that.
A Love Story
Climb is a combination of three love stories. First, it’s a love letter to cycling, specifically celebrating the stunning Gibraltar Road climb in Santa Barbara. Be forewarned – any cyclist will leave this film with Gibraltar at the top of their bucket list. The cinematography showing this climb is breathtaking.
Second, it is a love story of the hundreds of caregivers in Santa Barbara who brought Neil back from the edge and ultimately back to the starting line a year later in the 2019 Santa Barbara Triathlon. You will be in awe of these amazing caregivers.
And, finally, it is a love story for Neil’s amazing family, who were there every step of the way on his road back. There are few reviews that don’t call out Neil’s wife, Leigh, specifically. In many ways, the story is told though Leigh’s eyes. Watching her strength, courage, and vulnerability throughout Neil’s one-year journey is profoundly moving.
With all of that, there is very little time to tell a stale “Hero movie.”
Critically Acclaimed
Climb has made waves in the film festival circuit, being an official selection at 38 film festivals across five countries. A quick peek at the reviews shows why it did so well. The Milan Gold Film Festival said Climb “Heralds suspense and a climax worthy of the best fictional scripts.” The French film review site calls Climb “An Anthem to Courage.” And the Santa Barbara International Film Festival says Climb is an “Extremely well-made, inspirational film.”
How to Watch
Amazon recently picked up Climb for Prime Video. You can watch Climb by clicking here. Or, just go to Amazon.com and type Climb in the search bar. It is one of the first selections.
The three intertwined love stories in Climb will move you. Yet, amid this emotional journey, the grit and determination displayed are impossible to overlook. Climb is an unforgettable, riveting 51-minute journey that will remain etched in your memory long after the credits roll.
