The Devil's Climb: Everything you need to know about the Nat Geo Documentary

The Devil's Climb, a new National Geographic documentary, premieres on October 17, 2024, at 9/8c on National Geographic and streams the next day on Disney+ and Hulu.

It follows rock climbing icons Alex Honnold and Tommy Caldwell as they attempt to set a world speed record by traversing the five spires of the renowned Devil's Thumb, a 9,000-foot peak in Alaska. The exciting documentary chronicles one of the most difficult climbs in North America, as the Devil's Thumb is renowned for its hostile conditions.

Directed by Renan Ozturk, The Devil's Climb captures the emotional and physical journey of Alex and Tommy as they embark on an epic expedition. Ozturk is not only a director but also a seasoned climber, making him uniquely qualified to helm the film.

Produced by Plimsoll Productions, with executive producers James Smith, Martha Holmes and Alan Eyres, the documentary brings the best talent behind the camera as well.

Under Matt Pycroft's co-direction, the documentary vividly tells the tale, with Drew Pulley being the edit director. The executive producers are Alex Honnold, Tommy Caldwell, Peter Mortimer and Jonathan Retseck.

The film presents a riveting view of the climbers' unwavering will to summit one of the most dangerous mountains on Earth. The official synopsis of the documentary reads:

"Climbers Alex Honnold and Tommy Caldwell embark on an expedition to conquer Alaska's treacherous Devils Thumb, pushing their limits through perilous climbs across daunting peaks, while their unbreakable bond is put to the ultimate test."

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The Story Behind The Devil's Climb

Beginning an incredible journey to the Devil's Thumb, a peak buried far into the Alaskan wilderness, Alex Honnold and Tommy Caldwell begin climbing the 9,000-foot mountain, a dangerous challenge with its steep cliffs and erratic temperatures.

For Tommy, the ascent marks a personal return following an Achilles injury that threatened to cut off his career rather than only a physical challenge. For Alex, the trip is evidence of his ambition and unflinching support from friends.

The film showcases the pair's 2,600-mile expedition through the American West, Canada and Alaska. They travel by bicycle, sailboat and foot to reach the mountain, making the adventure as grueling as the climb itself.

The documentary highlights the emotional and physical tests they face, pushing their bodies to the limit while maintaining their unbreakable bond as climbers and friends.

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Plot and filming

The story of The Devil's Climb revolves on the climbers' quest for the first-ever single-day traverse of the five spires of Devil's Thumb. The difficult climb is about the trip preceding it as much as about the ascent itself.

With such a high aim, the climbers must contend with mental challenges as well as severe weather and difficult terrain. From their first preparations to their last ascent, the documentary captures every minute of their adventure.

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Filming The Devil's Climb presented as difficult as the ascent itself. To get the amazing video, the crew had to negotiate challenging terrain and erratic weather. Stunning detail in the movie gives viewers a close-up view of the climbers' path, highs and lows, and the large Alaskan wilderness scenes.

Under the direction of fellow climber Renan Ozturk, whose experience and viewpoint offer a real view of the hazards and beauty of the ascent.

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Viewers of the remarkable documentary The Devil's Climb will be on an unforgettable trip. From the emotional stories of Alex Honnold and Tommy Caldwell to the breathtaking Alaska scenery, the film wonderfully captures adventure and the human spirit.

Starting on October 17, 2024, this documentary — which explores extreme sports adventure or the amazing relationship between two of the best climbers in the world — is a must-see for everyone.