Watch The Ascent

The Ascent, released in 1994, is a thrilling adventure-drama that tells the story of two men assigned to climb a seemingly impossible mountain in order to gather information about an enemy camp. The film is directed by Donald Shebib and stars Vincent Spano, Ben Cross, and Tony Lo Bianco. Set during World War II, The Ascent follows the journey of two soldiers, Lieutenant Edward Landers (Vincent Spano) and Sergeant Mike Glazier (Ben Cross), who are tasked by their commanding officer (Tony Lo Bianco) to climb a treacherous mountain in German-occupied Italy. The mountain, which has never been climbed before, is believed to be the only accessible route to a Nazi stronghold located on the other side.

At first, Landers and Glazier are hesitant, unsure if they have the skills and experience necessary to complete the mission. But with pressure from their commanding officer and a strong desire to help their fellow soldiers, they set out to scale the mountain. The journey becomes increasingly challenging as they encounter unexpected obstacles, such as harsh weather conditions and treacherous terrain.

The Ascent showcases the physical and mental challenges that Landers and Glazier face as they attempt to climb the mountain. They are pushed to their limits as they struggle to overcome fatigue, injury, and the ever-present threat of being discovered by the enemy. Throughout the film, their determination and courage are put to the test as they navigate their way to the top.

One of the most memorable aspects of The Ascent is the stunning, breathtaking scenery. The film was shot on location in the Italian Alps, and the natural beauty of the landscape provides a stunning backdrop for the story. Shebib uses the setting to great effect, immersing the audience in the breathtaking beauty of the mountains while also emphasizing the danger and peril that the soldiers face.

Another highlight of the film is the performances of the lead actors. Spano and Cross are both excellent in their roles, conveying the physical and emotional exhaustion of the climb with aplomb. They are both convincing as soldiers, conveying the grit and determination required to complete such a difficult mission. Lo Bianco, too, delivers a strong performance as the commanding officer who must make difficult decisions that could mean life or death for his men.

The Ascent is not just an action-packed adventure story, however. It also explores deeper themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the bonds that form between soldiers in wartime. As Landers and Glazier struggle to reach the top of the mountain, they rely on each other for support and encouragement, forming a deep bond that will last a lifetime.

The film also examines the toll that war takes on soldiers, both physically and mentally. Landers, in particular, is haunted by memories of past battles, and the climb forces him to confront his fears and come to terms with his past. These moments of introspection add depth and complexity to the character, making him more than just a two-dimensional action hero.

Overall, The Ascent is an exciting, gripping film that will appeal to fans of action-adventure movies, as well as those who enjoy films that explore deeper themes. Shebib does an excellent job of balancing the physical challenges of the climb with the emotional journey of the characters, creating a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The Ascent is a 1994 adventure movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7.