‘The Mountain’ follows three kids’ pilgrimage to a mountain as they each hope to find something at its peak. Being around nature can be both humbling and enlightening. Recognizing its vastness and resilience, while also appreciating its connection to all living things can really put things into perspective.
Nature can be life-affirming or menacing, miniscule or colossal, quiet or deafening. Its range is immeasurable, as is its influence on everything. It still consists of wonders no one can explain, and we continue to discover new things even after centuries of study and exploration.
In The Mountain , a young cancer patient wants to try to harness the healing powers of a mountain with a dangerous journey to its peak. Sam (Elizabeth Atkinson) has spent a lot of time in the hospital, which has given her ample time to figure out the best route of escape. With the help of a friend (Sukena Shah) who offers to cover for her absence, Sam sets off to climb to the top of Mt.
Taranaki in hopes it will cure her cancer. Along the way, she meets Mallory (Reuben Francis), who is also journeying alone to visit the mountain and reconnect with his mom who recently died. They’re joined by Bronco (Terence Daniel), a proud Māori boy who exudes confidence, but is also very sensitive and protective of the Earth.
This is somewhat of a fool’s errand as Sam sets out on the long trek without any supplies, making her chance meeting with Mallory a stroke of luck. The pair have a bit of a rou.