There are many types of climbing films, thematically.  Some focus on a single area, paying tribute to that scene.  Some are focused on a particular climber or two.  Others a particular objective.  A Fine Line falls into another category, paying intense focus and dedication to just that, Fine Lines. The never-ending hunt for the new and highest quality lines.  So much so that throughout the film, most climbs are shown in their beauty without so much as a name or grade appended.  The imagry is stunning, even without a climber in frame.  This film reminds me a great deal of Rocky Mountain Highball – beautiful climbing overlaid with unobtrusive music and climbers waxing poetic about the trials and joys of the sport.  Through those voiceovers, the viewer does get an insight into the personality of each of the players.

One of the few problems named is James Litz’s 26 move masterpiece, Warpath.  This problem starts the portion of the film dedicated to struggle and failure, but also to highlight the shift in the sport thanks to technology – anyone with an internet connect and access to YouTube can suck down hours of beta before ever touching the objective in person. 

Overall, good film!  I would hesitate to show this film to a junior team, as the foul language flows in places. If you are the type that climbs mellow, methodical, and spiritual, this could stoke the fire in you. If you are the type that climbs with a burning intensity and near violent aggression, you should still watch this, but maybe wait until a quiet Sunday night when you want to unwind.  Definitely watch until the very last minute for an awesome tale of Brion Voges and Jimmy Webb discovering boulders in Tennessee.

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