In January 2015, American rock climbers Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson captivated the world with their effort to climb The Dawn Wall, a seemingly impossible 3,000-foot rock face in Yosemite National Park, California.
The pair lived on the sheer vertical cliff for weeks, igniting a frenzy of global media attention.
But for Tommy Caldwell, The Dawn Wall was much more than just a climb. It was the culmination of a lifetime defined by overcoming obstacles. At the age of 22, the climbing prodigy was taken hostage by rebels in Kyrgyzstan. Shortly after, he lost his index finger in an accident but resolved to come back stronger. When his marriage fell apart, he escaped the pain by fixating on the extraordinary goal of free climbing The Dawn Wall.
Blurring the line between dedication and obsession, Caldwell and his partner Jorgeson spend six years meticulously plotting and practicing their route. On the final attempt, with the world watching, Caldwell is faced with a moment of truth. Should he abandon his partner to fulfill his ultimate dream, or risk his own success for the sake of their friendship?
"A high-strung daredevil movie...spirited and compelling." — Variety
"Movingly examines the bonds of friendship while navigating that very fine line between dedication and obsession." — Los Angeles Times
"A sweaty palms chronicle of an insane climb." — The Hollywood Reporter
"Will make your palms sweat and your stomach flip." — OZY
"An astounding documentary...has any film better captured life on the wall?" — The Guardian
The Sedona tour stop of “The Dawn Wall” is made possible by a generous grant from the Arizona Community Foundation of Sedona.