The Climb (2017) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
The Climb (original title: L’Ascension) is a heartwarming French comedy-drama directed by Ludovic Bernard, based on the true story of Nadir Dendoune, a man who, despite having no climbing experience, sets out to scale Mount Everest to prove his love for the woman of his dreams. Released in 2017, this inspiring and lighthearted film combines romance, adventure, and comedy while touching on themes of perseverance, self-discovery, and the lengths one can go for love.
In this review, we will explore the film’s plot, key performances, and what makes The Climb stand out as a feel-good movie. Additionally, we’ll provide details on where you can stream The Climb online, especially in the U.S.
Plot Summary: Scaling Everest for Love
The story follows Samy Diakhate (played by Ahmed Sylla), a young man from a working-class neighborhood in Paris. He is head over heels in love with Nadia (Alice Belaïdi), a bright and ambitious woman, but feels that he must prove his worth to win her heart. To impress her, he impulsively declares that he will climb the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest, even though he has never set foot on a mountain before.
Driven by his love for Nadia and encouraged by his friends and family, Samy embarks on the seemingly impossible journey. As he travels to Nepal and begins the dangerous ascent, Samy is faced with the harsh realities of mountaineering, including physical exhaustion, altitude sickness, and extreme weather conditions. Along the way, he makes friends with other climbers, faces numerous obstacles, and questions his own motivations and abilities.
Back home, his climb captures the attention of his entire community, who rally behind him, making his journey a symbol of hope and inspiration for others facing their own struggles. Despite the odds, Samy’s determination to keep his promise and prove his love for Nadia never wavers.
Ahmed Sylla’s Performance: A Likeable and Relatable Hero
Ahmed Sylla’s portrayal of Samy Diakhate is one of the film’s strongest elements. He brings an infectious charm and warmth to the character, making Samy instantly likable. Sylla’s comedic timing is spot-on, and his physical humor adds a layer of levity to the otherwise daunting task of climbing Everest. At the same time, Sylla effectively conveys the vulnerability and self-doubt that Samy experiences as he confronts the reality of his bold promise.
Sylla’s portrayal of Samy goes beyond just a comedic performance; he captures the emotional stakes of the character’s journey. His interactions with other climbers, as well as the moments of solitude he faces on the mountain, highlight Samy’s growth as a person, making the film not only a romantic comedy but also a story of personal transformation.
Themes: Love, Determination, and Self-Discovery
At its core, The Climb is a story about love and the extraordinary things people are willing to do to prove their feelings. Samy’s decision to climb Mount Everest for Nadia is an extreme, and somewhat comical, expression of his desire to show her that he is worthy of her affection. However, the film also explores deeper themes of perseverance and self-discovery. Samy’s journey up the mountain becomes a metaphor for overcoming personal obstacles, both physical and emotional.
As Samy faces the perils of the climb, he is forced to confront his own insecurities and limitations. What begins as an attempt to impress someone else evolves into a journey of self-discovery, where Samy learns to push beyond his fears and doubts, ultimately proving something to himself more than to anyone else.
The film also touches on themes of community and solidarity. Throughout Samy’s climb, his family, friends, and neighbors back in Paris are following his progress and rooting for him. His journey becomes a symbol of hope and determination for those around him, illustrating the power of collective support and shared inspiration.
Direction and Cinematography: Capturing the Beauty of Everest
Ludovic Bernard’s direction shines in balancing the film’s lighthearted humor with the more serious, awe-inspiring aspects of Samy’s climb. The breathtaking cinematography effectively captures the majestic beauty of Mount Everest and the perilous journey to its summit. The film’s visuals emphasize the sheer scale and danger of the mountain, heightening the audience’s sense of wonder and tension as Samy ascends.
The combination of real mountain footage and special effects creates an immersive experience that allows viewers to feel the physical and emotional challenges Samy faces on his journey. The film also does an excellent job of contrasting the bustling urban life of Paris with the isolation and ruggedness of the Himalayan wilderness.
A Heartwarming, Feel-Good Movie
What makes The Climb so endearing is its ability to blend humor, romance, and inspiration without feeling overly sentimental or contrived. The film strikes a perfect balance between lighthearted comedy and genuine emotional depth. Samy’s journey is not just about impressing Nadia—it’s about finding out what he is truly capable of, and in doing so, inspiring others to pursue their own dreams.
The film’s message is universal: love, determination, and a little bit of faith can help you overcome even the tallest mountains, both literal and metaphorical. The Climb is a feel-good movie that will leave audiences smiling, motivated, and perhaps even a little teary-eyed by the end.
Where to Watch The Climb (2017) Online in the USA
If you’re looking to stream The Climb online, here are the platforms where it is available for rental, purchase, or streaming in the U.S.:
1. Streaming Services (Subscription-Based)
- Netflix: The Climb is available on Netflix in some regions. Netflix is known for its vast library of international films, and The Climb is a great addition to its selection of foreign comedies and dramas. Subscriptions start at $9.99 per month.
2. Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent or purchase The Climb on Amazon Prime Video. Rentals usually start at $3.99, and you can purchase the film for around $9.99.
- Apple TV (iTunes): The Climb is available on Apple TV for rent at $3.99 or for purchase at $9.99.
- Google Play Movies: The movie can also be rented or bought on Google Play Movies, with rental prices starting at $3.99 and purchase prices at $9.99.
- Vudu: On Vudu, you can rent The Climb for $3.99 or buy it for $9.99, giving you flexible options for viewing.
Why You Should Watch The Climb on Streaming Platforms
Watching The Climb on a streaming platform allows you to enjoy this heartwarming, feel-good movie in the comfort of your home. The film’s stunning visuals and inspiring story make it a perfect movie for a relaxing night in, whether you’re streaming on Netflix or renting it on Amazon Prime Video or Vudu.
For fans of romantic comedies, adventure films, or inspiring true stories, The Climb is a great choice. Its mix of humor, heart, and breathtaking scenery will leave you feeling uplifted and motivated to tackle your own challenges, no matter how big or small.
Conclusion: A Joyful Journey of Love and Determination
The Climb (2017) is an uplifting and charming film that reminds us of the power of love, determination, and believing in ourselves. Ahmed Sylla’s charismatic performance as Samy, combined with the film’s beautiful direction and stunning visuals, makes for an unforgettable cinematic experience.
Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies or adventure films, The Climb offers something for everyone—a mix of humor, heart, and inspiration. Samy’s journey up Everest is not just a climb for love, but a metaphor for overcoming life’s biggest challenges, with a message that will resonate long after the credits roll.
Watch The Climb Today:
- Netflix
- Amazon Prime Video
- Apple TV (iTunes)
- Google Play Movies
- Vudu
Get ready to embark on a heartwarming and inspiring adventure with The Climb, and be reminded that no mountain is too tall when it’s scaled with love and determination.
