I'm surprised at the negative reviews for this movie because I really enjoyed it. The shock and the struggle they endured looked real! They carried the audience with them through the horrible conditions, as well as, the fear of not knowing if they would make it. I was on the edge of my seat not knowing if they will make it or not! Knowing that sometimes movies kill the stars off made it more suspenseful to me! The main problem I had was it took too long. How long were they gonna go through the snow trying to live?! Man! Hurry up already! The actors are some of my favs so I forgave them for being such good actors that they made mountain snowdrifts cool! LOL!
412 Reviews
I'll have what the Dog was on
jimbo-1155419 November 2018
Warning: Spoilers
This was an entertaining film although a little on the slow side. Overall enjoyable ride which plateaued a little in the middle. The one massive issue I had was that when our two protagonists looked tired, cold and hungry, the dog seemed to be full of energy for the entire film.constantly bounding about like he was on a morning walk in the snow.....the little guys feet would have been so frost bitten and they should have at least made comments towards his condition as every time I saw him leaping through the snow it just ruined the tension. Ok for a Sunday night view.
A film not quite sure what it's trying to be.
bob-the-movie-man28 July 2018
Idris Elba after scoring a mammoth hit with UK TV's "Luther" has really struggled to make a breakthrough as a leading man into A-grade movies. Although he's had some strong supporting roles ("Molly's Game" and "Star Trek Beyond" for example) and small bit parts in the Marvel universe, when he has landed a lead role they are in films best forgotton (e.g. "Bastille Day"; "The Dark Tower"). This is seldom down to his performance. Here he is given more of a chance to shine, in what is almost a two-hander with Kate Winslet ("Triple 9", "Steve Jobs") for most of the film. And he is the best thing in the film: lots of the brooding look that he is so famous for.
Elba plays Ben Bass, a neuro-surgeon stranded at Boise airport who has to get back to Baltimore for an important operation. Winslett playing Alex Martin, a famous photo-journalist, is stranded with him and equally desperate to travel as she is due to get married in New York the following day. The two club together to hire a plane from charter pilot Walter (Beau Bridges, "Homeland", "The Descendents"). But in terrible conditions, and with a medical emergency, the plane crash lands in the snow of the Rockies, and Ben and Alex (together with Walter's Labrador) need to struggle to survive in the wilderness. The problem is that they are an odd couple, and constantly wind each other up the wrong way.
It's a well-worn tale that has been portrayed many times before in films like "Alive" and "The Grey", so what makes the film live or die is the quality of the screenplay and the chemistry between the characters. Unfortunately the former by Chris Weitz (co-writer on "Rogue One") is rather clunky, and in the latter case I just didn't feel it. Winslett's character is just so incredibly whiney and annoying that the thought of Ben doing anything with her other than hitting her with the shovel and feeding her to the dog seems unlikely! Winslett seems to sense that too, since I never felt she was completely invested in her character. Aside from one (impressive) monologue, I found it to be a so-so performance from her.
Aside from Elba the other star of the show is the landscape of the High Uintascape in North East Utah of the which is beautifully filmed, on location by Mandy Walker ("Hidden Figures").
The story leaps from improbability to improbability and raises more questions than it answers: in a survival situation should you walk or stay put? If you have a dog, should you eat it* and what condiments are appropriate? Does an iced-over river have any current flowing under the ice? If they both died, would the audience care?
No spoilers with answers to any of these (*apart from the dog... just joking, they don't!) , but the ending is as corny as you can get... but it still gave me a lump in my throat. #suckered!
Directed by Hany Abu-Assad, overall if you have a rainy afternoon you need to fill then this a perfectly pleasant movie to veg in front of, but it neither completely satisfies as a romance nor as an adventure flick but falls rather uncomfortably between the two stools.
Elba plays Ben Bass, a neuro-surgeon stranded at Boise airport who has to get back to Baltimore for an important operation. Winslett playing Alex Martin, a famous photo-journalist, is stranded with him and equally desperate to travel as she is due to get married in New York the following day. The two club together to hire a plane from charter pilot Walter (Beau Bridges, "Homeland", "The Descendents"). But in terrible conditions, and with a medical emergency, the plane crash lands in the snow of the Rockies, and Ben and Alex (together with Walter's Labrador) need to struggle to survive in the wilderness. The problem is that they are an odd couple, and constantly wind each other up the wrong way.
It's a well-worn tale that has been portrayed many times before in films like "Alive" and "The Grey", so what makes the film live or die is the quality of the screenplay and the chemistry between the characters. Unfortunately the former by Chris Weitz (co-writer on "Rogue One") is rather clunky, and in the latter case I just didn't feel it. Winslett's character is just so incredibly whiney and annoying that the thought of Ben doing anything with her other than hitting her with the shovel and feeding her to the dog seems unlikely! Winslett seems to sense that too, since I never felt she was completely invested in her character. Aside from one (impressive) monologue, I found it to be a so-so performance from her.
Aside from Elba the other star of the show is the landscape of the High Uintascape in North East Utah of the which is beautifully filmed, on location by Mandy Walker ("Hidden Figures").
The story leaps from improbability to improbability and raises more questions than it answers: in a survival situation should you walk or stay put? If you have a dog, should you eat it* and what condiments are appropriate? Does an iced-over river have any current flowing under the ice? If they both died, would the audience care?
No spoilers with answers to any of these (*apart from the dog... just joking, they don't!) , but the ending is as corny as you can get... but it still gave me a lump in my throat. #suckered!
Directed by Hany Abu-Assad, overall if you have a rainy afternoon you need to fill then this a perfectly pleasant movie to veg in front of, but it neither completely satisfies as a romance nor as an adventure flick but falls rather uncomfortably between the two stools.
Gorgeous cinematography and a cute dog.
JohnDeSando10 October 2017
Two factors save The Mountain Between Us from romantic oblivion: Breathtaking cinematography (Mandy Walker) and two fine actors, Idris Elba as Ben and Kate Winslet as Alex. They are lost in the cold snow somewhere in the mountains of Idaho or Colorado after a small plane accident, but fortunately he's a neurosurgeon and she's a plucky photographer. Lucky about his medical skills.
If Nicholas Sparks could do lost in the snow, then he could have written this rather trite and predictable romance. Why wouldn't they fall in love with no one else around and such attractive people to boot? That they both are vulnerable becomes obvious; that they will fall in love is a given of the genre and maybe of survival itself when there's no one else around.
Lest I forget, a lovable dog also is a tie to bind. To be fair, director Hany Abu-Assad and his writers J.Mills Goodloe and Chris Weitz keep the real romance from happening through at least half the film. During that blessed time we can enjoy the spectacle and the survival techniques. Always with the thought of what we would do in those circumstances.
More outrageous than the clichéd circumstance is the fact that she needs medical help consistently where he just needs it toward the end. Why then does the old trope of the damsel in distress come to mind? Why not,in a film shameless with tear jerking.
He just lost his wife, and she doesn't seem overly joyed about her impending wedding and her husband, Mark (Dermot Mulroney). So you know what's going to happen right to the end.
I am happy to see Canada so beautifully captured on the screen. As for me, I felt captured in a melodramatic survival story from which I needed rescue.
If Nicholas Sparks could do lost in the snow, then he could have written this rather trite and predictable romance. Why wouldn't they fall in love with no one else around and such attractive people to boot? That they both are vulnerable becomes obvious; that they will fall in love is a given of the genre and maybe of survival itself when there's no one else around.
Lest I forget, a lovable dog also is a tie to bind. To be fair, director Hany Abu-Assad and his writers J.Mills Goodloe and Chris Weitz keep the real romance from happening through at least half the film. During that blessed time we can enjoy the spectacle and the survival techniques. Always with the thought of what we would do in those circumstances.
More outrageous than the clichéd circumstance is the fact that she needs medical help consistently where he just needs it toward the end. Why then does the old trope of the damsel in distress come to mind? Why not,in a film shameless with tear jerking.
He just lost his wife, and she doesn't seem overly joyed about her impending wedding and her husband, Mark (Dermot Mulroney). So you know what's going to happen right to the end.
I am happy to see Canada so beautifully captured on the screen. As for me, I felt captured in a melodramatic survival story from which I needed rescue.
The Mixture Between Us
rgkarim6 October 2017
The mighty majestic mountains that line the world. These monolithic displays of nature are icons for so many forms of expression such as poetry, video game stages, and yes even movies. Such symbolism is perfect to craft such an obstruction for heroes to face, all while teaching valuable lessons. And thus leads me to my next review, on a movie that centers on the immobile giants that watch over the world. The Mountain Between Us is the name of the film and its trailers have certainly stirred up a storm in the world of reviews. Robbie K here hoping to guide you through the mess to help guide your viewing pleasures.
LIKES:
The acting: Like the mountains they are stuck in, the lead actors in this movie are giants themselves, displaying their talents to high levels. Idris Elba once more blows my mind out how well he executes his roles. He sells the suffering surgeon well, playing the internalization well and the survivalist even more. Kate Winslet as ever brings her character to life, taking the fiery spirit she has within, and unleashing it in a manner that is wild, yet honed as the movie progresses. The two certainly have the portrayal of suffering down pat (they can really shiver) but on many levels they play well off each other, especially in the beginning.
The Dog: While not the main human actor, the dog is by far the character I cared about the most. This animal, while of course like many of his canine brethren, was cute to me and impressive in the work it had to do. Trekking through the show, climbing mountains, and a variety of other things the dog certainly caught my eye for much of the screen. In addition, because I'm a big animal fan, the dog was the character that kept me engaged in the film. Every scene transition, or new challenge I couldn't help, but think "What happened to the dog." That component is perhaps the biggest hooking element in the movie to keep you into the film. What is its fate? Can't tell you, you'll have to watch.
The Scenery: While it is no substitute for the real thing, The Mountain Between Us is a great example of stunning camera work. My breath was taken away by all the panoramic shots of the wilderness from the ever expanding sky in the peaks, to the silent wonder of the forest littering the valleys below. It brings out the deadly force that mother nature holds and stunned me by the majesty of the visual prowess cameras can pick up. So while it is again not the same thing as hiking these majestic peaks, it is the next best thing.
DISLIKES:
Diluted Suspense: If you are like me, the trailers might have you believe this was going to be the most suspenseful movie of the year. Unfortunately, I was fooled again. This film has some moments that got my anxiety building, but a majority of it is an almost peaceful trek through the snow. While they are certainly cold, our character's journey through the frozen wastelands lacked many elements to build up the intensity. Perhaps the lack of a cinematic score, or the fact that obstacles seemed cleared too easily thanks to convenience, this movies frozen fury was almost a little too fragile for me. Or maybe it was the other focus of the movie that downgraded the suspense for me
The Love Theme: Yes, just like the symbolic title suggests, the main wedge is the character's backstories preventing them from moving to the obvious sign of starting a romance. Much of the film tries to get the two to address their rather quick development of passion for one another in some rather lackluster ways. I wasn't sold on the romance for the most part, and the actors themselves didn't seem quite charmed by each other outside of one rather pointless scene. The friendship factor at the beginning was much stronger, and would have been the route I had taken in developing the story. Again, I don't necessarily hate love, but I would like it better portrayed for my investment.
Disproportion: Timing the movie, as good geeks do, it took only 8 minutes to get up on the mountain. While I appreciate the fast pace, it gave little time to get to know the characters or at least give them a decent introduction to the madness about to be had. This opening was rather shallow and quite disappointing in the grand scheme of the movie. Yet it's not quite as bad as the dragged out ending of this film. While not as long as Return of The King, and all its false exits, The Mountain Between Us sort fizzles out in the end. This tangent was not necessary, a quick closure to try and tidy up some loose ends of a weaker component of the film. Worst off, the chemistry started to falter, making this an awkward mess with a rather cheesy, albeit poetic, ending. Not sure why these last 25 minutes needed to exist, but it could have been better spent in the beginning and end of the movie.
The VERDICT:
The Mountain Between Us is a beautiful spectacle of what the world can provide in terms of a stage, certainly blowing my mind on the visuals. Alongside this majestic scenery comes some quality acting and a hooking factor in the form of the dog. Yet these tools alone couldn't save this movie from being semi-dull. With the tension dropped to a PG level for symbolism and awkward love, alongside disproportioned parts, I can't say this movie delivered all I wanted. The visuals might be the main theater worthy component, but this reviewer suggests holding out for RedBox to catch it.
My Scores:
Action/Adventure/Drama: 6.5 Movie Overall: 5.5
LIKES:
The acting: Like the mountains they are stuck in, the lead actors in this movie are giants themselves, displaying their talents to high levels. Idris Elba once more blows my mind out how well he executes his roles. He sells the suffering surgeon well, playing the internalization well and the survivalist even more. Kate Winslet as ever brings her character to life, taking the fiery spirit she has within, and unleashing it in a manner that is wild, yet honed as the movie progresses. The two certainly have the portrayal of suffering down pat (they can really shiver) but on many levels they play well off each other, especially in the beginning.
The Dog: While not the main human actor, the dog is by far the character I cared about the most. This animal, while of course like many of his canine brethren, was cute to me and impressive in the work it had to do. Trekking through the show, climbing mountains, and a variety of other things the dog certainly caught my eye for much of the screen. In addition, because I'm a big animal fan, the dog was the character that kept me engaged in the film. Every scene transition, or new challenge I couldn't help, but think "What happened to the dog." That component is perhaps the biggest hooking element in the movie to keep you into the film. What is its fate? Can't tell you, you'll have to watch.
The Scenery: While it is no substitute for the real thing, The Mountain Between Us is a great example of stunning camera work. My breath was taken away by all the panoramic shots of the wilderness from the ever expanding sky in the peaks, to the silent wonder of the forest littering the valleys below. It brings out the deadly force that mother nature holds and stunned me by the majesty of the visual prowess cameras can pick up. So while it is again not the same thing as hiking these majestic peaks, it is the next best thing.
DISLIKES:
Diluted Suspense: If you are like me, the trailers might have you believe this was going to be the most suspenseful movie of the year. Unfortunately, I was fooled again. This film has some moments that got my anxiety building, but a majority of it is an almost peaceful trek through the snow. While they are certainly cold, our character's journey through the frozen wastelands lacked many elements to build up the intensity. Perhaps the lack of a cinematic score, or the fact that obstacles seemed cleared too easily thanks to convenience, this movies frozen fury was almost a little too fragile for me. Or maybe it was the other focus of the movie that downgraded the suspense for me
The Love Theme: Yes, just like the symbolic title suggests, the main wedge is the character's backstories preventing them from moving to the obvious sign of starting a romance. Much of the film tries to get the two to address their rather quick development of passion for one another in some rather lackluster ways. I wasn't sold on the romance for the most part, and the actors themselves didn't seem quite charmed by each other outside of one rather pointless scene. The friendship factor at the beginning was much stronger, and would have been the route I had taken in developing the story. Again, I don't necessarily hate love, but I would like it better portrayed for my investment.
Disproportion: Timing the movie, as good geeks do, it took only 8 minutes to get up on the mountain. While I appreciate the fast pace, it gave little time to get to know the characters or at least give them a decent introduction to the madness about to be had. This opening was rather shallow and quite disappointing in the grand scheme of the movie. Yet it's not quite as bad as the dragged out ending of this film. While not as long as Return of The King, and all its false exits, The Mountain Between Us sort fizzles out in the end. This tangent was not necessary, a quick closure to try and tidy up some loose ends of a weaker component of the film. Worst off, the chemistry started to falter, making this an awkward mess with a rather cheesy, albeit poetic, ending. Not sure why these last 25 minutes needed to exist, but it could have been better spent in the beginning and end of the movie.
The VERDICT:
The Mountain Between Us is a beautiful spectacle of what the world can provide in terms of a stage, certainly blowing my mind on the visuals. Alongside this majestic scenery comes some quality acting and a hooking factor in the form of the dog. Yet these tools alone couldn't save this movie from being semi-dull. With the tension dropped to a PG level for symbolism and awkward love, alongside disproportioned parts, I can't say this movie delivered all I wanted. The visuals might be the main theater worthy component, but this reviewer suggests holding out for RedBox to catch it.
My Scores:
Action/Adventure/Drama: 6.5 Movie Overall: 5.5
Elba, Winslet (and a dog) in snow. What could go wrong?
kaptenvideo-898753 February 2018
A classic boy (Idris Elba) meets girl (Kate Winslet) story, only this time it begins with the plane crashing into mountains, and they have to make their way down without, you know, freezing or starving to death.
I haven't read the original novel by Charles Martin, but the movie starts as simple but inventive mix of classic story types such as boy meets girl and survival, with even some light but good verbal humor thrown in.
The makers don't want to expose the general direction early on, so for most of the time we concentrate on survivors overcoming the harsh conditions.
Sadly, there's not much variety to sloshing in the snow and shivering near the campfires, so it gives one time to begin to notice how the storytelling tends to stay on the lazy / shallow side.
For example, some of the basic points of survival stories are not adequately explained - how the duo always have strength to find and carry food, or how they manage to keep the dog alive and healthy who survived the crash too.
The dog just disappears and is re-insertedwhere convenient. There's even scene which hints they had to climb down a steep cliff but never have equipment to take the animal with them. Or even take care of themselves, for the matter.
Anyway, all these niggles don't quite break the suspense but don't exactly help to uphold it either.
And it wouldn't be a problem at all if the story would not be so mainstream (the two's backgrounds and relationships would benefit from some depth)
The makers even go as far as adding some true Hollywood style flashbacks which don't fit at all. Not to mention that these lay bare the general direction that they story has tried to hide the whole time.
Luckily, it's mostly about Elba and Winslet who don't disappoint, giving solid if workmanlike performances to bring the material alive.
They quietly and confidently carry the experience, so if you are OK paying to see two top thespians doing their thang, then "The Mountain Between Us" is good enough watch.
There's almost no other human characters - the only notable supporting roles are by Beau Bridges and Dermot Mulroney.
All in all, "Mountain" is watchable but too professional rather than passionate project from all involved, thus not eliciting true commitment from the viewer either.
There are moments of authenticity, and moments that might make you care for a moment... but there's not enough to make it stick in memory.
I'd like to finally see a movie that's entirely worth Elba's talent and charisma, as HBO's unforgettable "The Wired" managed in TV world more than 10 years ago already.
I haven't read the original novel by Charles Martin, but the movie starts as simple but inventive mix of classic story types such as boy meets girl and survival, with even some light but good verbal humor thrown in.
The makers don't want to expose the general direction early on, so for most of the time we concentrate on survivors overcoming the harsh conditions.
Sadly, there's not much variety to sloshing in the snow and shivering near the campfires, so it gives one time to begin to notice how the storytelling tends to stay on the lazy / shallow side.
For example, some of the basic points of survival stories are not adequately explained - how the duo always have strength to find and carry food, or how they manage to keep the dog alive and healthy who survived the crash too.
The dog just disappears and is re-insertedwhere convenient. There's even scene which hints they had to climb down a steep cliff but never have equipment to take the animal with them. Or even take care of themselves, for the matter.
Anyway, all these niggles don't quite break the suspense but don't exactly help to uphold it either.
And it wouldn't be a problem at all if the story would not be so mainstream (the two's backgrounds and relationships would benefit from some depth)
The makers even go as far as adding some true Hollywood style flashbacks which don't fit at all. Not to mention that these lay bare the general direction that they story has tried to hide the whole time.
Luckily, it's mostly about Elba and Winslet who don't disappoint, giving solid if workmanlike performances to bring the material alive.
They quietly and confidently carry the experience, so if you are OK paying to see two top thespians doing their thang, then "The Mountain Between Us" is good enough watch.
There's almost no other human characters - the only notable supporting roles are by Beau Bridges and Dermot Mulroney.
All in all, "Mountain" is watchable but too professional rather than passionate project from all involved, thus not eliciting true commitment from the viewer either.
There are moments of authenticity, and moments that might make you care for a moment... but there's not enough to make it stick in memory.
I'd like to finally see a movie that's entirely worth Elba's talent and charisma, as HBO's unforgettable "The Wired" managed in TV world more than 10 years ago already.
A lovely "goosepimple" movie
Tinkerbellprincess6928 July 2018
I'm very surprised at the reasonably low rating of this movie. For me it was very enjoyable and engaging. You really get involved with the 2 characters story and spend the whole film really wondering if they will survive the plane disaster and circumstances they've found themselves in.
Great acting and chemistry between Idris Elba & Kate Winslet and many "goosepimple" moments.
A movie definitely worth watching!
Great acting and chemistry between Idris Elba & Kate Winslet and many "goosepimple" moments.
A movie definitely worth watching!
The viewer needs to share the director's vision
jon-67-95880916 December 2019
Warning: Spoilers
Over and over again I come across films where the viewing public seem to fail to grasp the vision of the director. This is one such film.
I've seen criticisms in reviews such as "only 8 minutes to get to the mountain". The point is, the two characters are strangers to each other, and likewise they are strangers to us. If their characters were better developed, we'd know too much about them. Instead their characters are unfolded through the story, in a way which lets us discover who they are at roughly the same rate as they're discovering each other as people, and as survival companions.
And as for "the last 25 minutes were unnecessary", I disagree. The story needs to slow down, once they're back in civilisation trying to get on with the everyday lives they lived before. But after that shared experience, things seem empty. You can't rush this part of the story, or you simply won't tell the story. Thankfully the director allowed the characters to tell their stories, to show us that life couldn't simply continue as before, that something was missing for both of them.
As for an unrealistic descent from the mountain... not really. It generally is a matter of finding a navigable path and getting to lower altitudes, then finding shelter, fresh water and food. Perhaps the least realistic part was eating snow to get water - it's really not advisable as your main source, though it was only shown the once.
Great characterisation and acting from both Winslet and Elba. But great directing and storytelling from the director too.
I've seen criticisms in reviews such as "only 8 minutes to get to the mountain". The point is, the two characters are strangers to each other, and likewise they are strangers to us. If their characters were better developed, we'd know too much about them. Instead their characters are unfolded through the story, in a way which lets us discover who they are at roughly the same rate as they're discovering each other as people, and as survival companions.
And as for "the last 25 minutes were unnecessary", I disagree. The story needs to slow down, once they're back in civilisation trying to get on with the everyday lives they lived before. But after that shared experience, things seem empty. You can't rush this part of the story, or you simply won't tell the story. Thankfully the director allowed the characters to tell their stories, to show us that life couldn't simply continue as before, that something was missing for both of them.
As for an unrealistic descent from the mountain... not really. It generally is a matter of finding a navigable path and getting to lower altitudes, then finding shelter, fresh water and food. Perhaps the least realistic part was eating snow to get water - it's really not advisable as your main source, though it was only shown the once.
Great characterisation and acting from both Winslet and Elba. But great directing and storytelling from the director too.
Better than I was expecting....
merril44420 October 2017
I really enjoyed this movie. The cinematography was absolutely stunning & the two leads were well played. I bought into the story & left the cinema with a smile on my face. A girl could drown in Idris Elba's eyes!
I don't understand the terrible reviews on IMDb. The acting was not terrible, nor was the story-line. Critics seem to expect a romantic survival film to be somehow cerebral. Most movies are just regurgitated ideas, so the hate here is undeserved in my opinion. Maybe these are the same reviewers that thought La La Land deserved all those Oscars? Now there was a boring movie! Don't get me started....!
Don't believe the highbrow critics here. Grab your besties & have an enjoyable night out at the movies.
I don't understand the terrible reviews on IMDb. The acting was not terrible, nor was the story-line. Critics seem to expect a romantic survival film to be somehow cerebral. Most movies are just regurgitated ideas, so the hate here is undeserved in my opinion. Maybe these are the same reviewers that thought La La Land deserved all those Oscars? Now there was a boring movie! Don't get me started....!
Don't believe the highbrow critics here. Grab your besties & have an enjoyable night out at the movies.
Great vista
sergelamarche24 March 2019
This mini-alive is relatively interesting. Being myself a québécois living in the Rockies, not far from the set btw, many bits did not feel real or possible. I do appreciate the efforts though. The love story did not get hot for me. It felt more like something broke for the two heroes than some glue stick them together. It's the doctor character that did not seem brilliant enough for a brain surgeon.
Not great, not horrible
AlanRRT16 October 2017
Warning: Spoilers
Not a totally horrible movie, but not great. I can't say much more than has already been said, but there were some errors the size of a Mack truck in this movie that have not been pointed out.
1. There is a storm severe enough to cause commercial airplanes to be grounded, yet a small private plane can fly.
2. Alex is getting married the next day, Ben is doing surgery the next day, yet they are both across the country.
3. Conveniently for the plot, the pilot doesn't file a flight plan.
4. The plane crashes in the mountains, yet the passengers survive with minor injuries. I'll forgive this one, only because without it, the movie would be ten minutes long.
5. The damsel in distress injures her leg, and conveniently, Ben is a surgeon.
6. They crash in the Rocky Mountains at an altitude that's above timberline, at the end of December, without proper clothing and food, and don't die of hypothermia.
7. Alex tells Ben to use her camera with a telephoto lens to get a close up view around them. It is a rangefinder camera, and thus the viewfinder doesn't enlarge the view.
8. Ben slides several hundred feet down a snow slope, and is stopped by hitting a conveniently placed low rock ridge which stops him from going over a cliff, yet doesn't break both his legs.
9. Alex falls through ice into a stream, yet is not carried downstream so that Ben can fish her out.
10. They finally find a cabin, which was built and furnished (including a piano) with no road near it.
11. Ben steps in a bear trap. It's possible that a trapper neglected to pick up the trap, but not likely. Bears are hibernating that time of the year.
On the plus side, there is adventure, romance, and some fantastic scenery. And a dog that steals the show.
1. There is a storm severe enough to cause commercial airplanes to be grounded, yet a small private plane can fly.
2. Alex is getting married the next day, Ben is doing surgery the next day, yet they are both across the country.
3. Conveniently for the plot, the pilot doesn't file a flight plan.
4. The plane crashes in the mountains, yet the passengers survive with minor injuries. I'll forgive this one, only because without it, the movie would be ten minutes long.
5. The damsel in distress injures her leg, and conveniently, Ben is a surgeon.
6. They crash in the Rocky Mountains at an altitude that's above timberline, at the end of December, without proper clothing and food, and don't die of hypothermia.
7. Alex tells Ben to use her camera with a telephoto lens to get a close up view around them. It is a rangefinder camera, and thus the viewfinder doesn't enlarge the view.
8. Ben slides several hundred feet down a snow slope, and is stopped by hitting a conveniently placed low rock ridge which stops him from going over a cliff, yet doesn't break both his legs.
9. Alex falls through ice into a stream, yet is not carried downstream so that Ben can fish her out.
10. They finally find a cabin, which was built and furnished (including a piano) with no road near it.
11. Ben steps in a bear trap. It's possible that a trapper neglected to pick up the trap, but not likely. Bears are hibernating that time of the year.
On the plus side, there is adventure, romance, and some fantastic scenery. And a dog that steals the show.
Elba and Winslet's Chemistry Make This Film All The More Special
eric2620036 August 2019
Warning: Spoilers
"The Mountain Between Us" is a survival adventure romantic tale based off of the novel of the same title by Charles Martin. It tells the story of two complete strangers who have serious commitments they need to attend to but the situation they are facing makes it virtually impossible as they're trapped in the mountains and must depend on each other in order survive injury and frigid conditions. The leading performers are veteran stars Idris Elba and Kate Winslet and are supported by Beau Bridges and Dermot Mulroney. It is under the competent direction from Hany Abu-Assad and the script was handled with care by Chris Weitz and J. Mills Goodloe. In many ways, this movie has a similar approach to David Mamet's "The Edge" which also focuses on the theme of survival in harsh conditions. I like stories of people striving to survive as they spark unpredictable scenes that help facilitate both character/s and the atmosphere that carries nicely to the plot. What makes this movie stands out is that the chemistry within the performers carries the film in its entirety.
Elba stars as Dr. Ben Bass a surgeon who needs to go back to Baltimore to operate on very sick little boy. Winslet plays the role as photojournalist Alex Martin who needs to be in New York in time for her wedding to Mark Robertson (Mulroney). When they're airlines have been canceled due to stormy weather, Alex and Ben decide to hire a private plane to get them back to their respected destinations. They hire an elderly pilot named Walter who's accompanied by a rescue dog (Raleigh and Austin) and once aboard the plane, they start to connect with each other. Suddenly, Walter suffers a stroke and the plane crashes in the frozen mountains, but Ben, Alex and the dog survive. With no one to turn to due to the lack of a flight plan, Ben, Alex and the dog must survive in the without any kind of communication. Alex is badly injured and she also has guilt manifested in her as she never told Mark what she did before the wedding. Meanwhile Ben is laden with grief as he's never gotten over the death of wife who died two years ago from a brain tumor. As these two lamented who find themselves believing that they'll never be rescued, the weather starts getting worse and tensions start getting high and with limited resources left, the fear of dying is drawing near.
With the success of the game show "Survivor", Hollywood has always had a place in their hearts for characters lost from civilization, but this movie is about two people who live in separate walks of life. Sure the plot may be simplistic, but there's many traits that will keep the viewers compelled. With the pairing from mega stars like Elba and Winslet we can guarantee great things from them. sure they're chemistry is solid, their divide scenes are equally compelling as Ben tries to find help. For a film running an hour and forty-five minutes, there's a lot being covered here. Elba is strong and as the optimistic and dependable doctor who has never overcame his grief. His performance shows us that he is one of the most under-rated performers in Hollywood who deserves more recognition that he already has. Winslet is also excellent as Alex who feels to blame for this mess due to her insecurities. Their chemistry showing here feels organic as we can relate if two strangers were lost from civilization who need comfort for each other if they have a chance to survive.
Filmed on location in the Rocky Mountains of British Columbia and Alberta, the natural scenery is like a character of its own. With the beauty from the eye's perspective but a feeling if isolation and claustrophobia from a physical standpoint. Sure it looks like a great vacation to stay for a day or two. But this duo isn't here on vacation, they're trying to get back to their commitments. Though Abu-Hassad succeeds to keep things intriguing, but the main setback are the lack of plot twists. The scenarios are played out to one's expectancy. Sure it's strong in entertainment value, but no real revelations come between this pair which is why "The Edge" can be the better film because it is more daring. But it's still very tense and works well on several areas, this movie is strongly recommended for all to see.
Elba stars as Dr. Ben Bass a surgeon who needs to go back to Baltimore to operate on very sick little boy. Winslet plays the role as photojournalist Alex Martin who needs to be in New York in time for her wedding to Mark Robertson (Mulroney). When they're airlines have been canceled due to stormy weather, Alex and Ben decide to hire a private plane to get them back to their respected destinations. They hire an elderly pilot named Walter who's accompanied by a rescue dog (Raleigh and Austin) and once aboard the plane, they start to connect with each other. Suddenly, Walter suffers a stroke and the plane crashes in the frozen mountains, but Ben, Alex and the dog survive. With no one to turn to due to the lack of a flight plan, Ben, Alex and the dog must survive in the without any kind of communication. Alex is badly injured and she also has guilt manifested in her as she never told Mark what she did before the wedding. Meanwhile Ben is laden with grief as he's never gotten over the death of wife who died two years ago from a brain tumor. As these two lamented who find themselves believing that they'll never be rescued, the weather starts getting worse and tensions start getting high and with limited resources left, the fear of dying is drawing near.
With the success of the game show "Survivor", Hollywood has always had a place in their hearts for characters lost from civilization, but this movie is about two people who live in separate walks of life. Sure the plot may be simplistic, but there's many traits that will keep the viewers compelled. With the pairing from mega stars like Elba and Winslet we can guarantee great things from them. sure they're chemistry is solid, their divide scenes are equally compelling as Ben tries to find help. For a film running an hour and forty-five minutes, there's a lot being covered here. Elba is strong and as the optimistic and dependable doctor who has never overcame his grief. His performance shows us that he is one of the most under-rated performers in Hollywood who deserves more recognition that he already has. Winslet is also excellent as Alex who feels to blame for this mess due to her insecurities. Their chemistry showing here feels organic as we can relate if two strangers were lost from civilization who need comfort for each other if they have a chance to survive.
Filmed on location in the Rocky Mountains of British Columbia and Alberta, the natural scenery is like a character of its own. With the beauty from the eye's perspective but a feeling if isolation and claustrophobia from a physical standpoint. Sure it looks like a great vacation to stay for a day or two. But this duo isn't here on vacation, they're trying to get back to their commitments. Though Abu-Hassad succeeds to keep things intriguing, but the main setback are the lack of plot twists. The scenarios are played out to one's expectancy. Sure it's strong in entertainment value, but no real revelations come between this pair which is why "The Edge" can be the better film because it is more daring. But it's still very tense and works well on several areas, this movie is strongly recommended for all to see.
It is cheesy, but entertaining most of the time
davispittman12 July 2018
The Mountain Between Us (2017) is pretty damn cheesy, you know what's going to happen, you really do. By the numbers is a good way to describe this film, and I don't necessarily hate that, a predictable film can still be fun and entertaining. I don't dislike this film, it has good things that keep it afloat. Those things are Kate Winslet and Idris Elba. These two actors are just very talented and have enough chemistry to mostly pull this off. You have to know what this film is to be able to enjoy it, it's a cheesy romance. But the film knows how cheesy it is and I think it has fun with it. There are scenes where I felt the corny nature of it all went a bit too far and I was just like ok let's get on with it, but that wasn't too prevalent. The visuals are all very beautiful and it's directed well, and it features good actors with enough working chemistry. If all that is enough for you, then you'll most likely like this film. I will say that I didn't expect the third act to be as ling as it was, but that was actually my favorite part of the film. I had a good enough time with this, and didn't take it too seriously. 7/10.
Typical case of the book is so much better than the movie
chuck-telschow5 February 2022
Forget the movie and read the book. They took everything great about the book, changed it and in the process lessened the story in almost every way. It feels like they are in such a hurry to get to the action that they gloss over the beginning. Then they proceed to take every character and give them baggage instead of just letting them be good people. Sad.
The Mountain Between Us- Great Movie! Don't listen to bad reviews...
mattkruper8 October 2017
Warning: Spoilers
There has been a lot of bad reviews about this movie, but I really don't understand why. In my opinion, this was one of the best movies I've seen this year. It's for everybody. There's action, drama, adventure, romance, and more. The film was emotional, and was exciting to watch. When Ben was sliding down the mountain and nearly died, or when Alex leaves the plane to go for what she believes, all was interesting to watch. Don't listen to the bad reviews. The only thing about the movie was the beginning was a little fast paced, but the rest was fabulous. I recommend this movie.
Survival will show the real us
shibal-0090219 April 2020
Heartwarming Adventure
TonFisch6 April 2020
It is a standard formula: Two people get into a sticky situation and have to push through
This movie does not try to show the "epic adventurer" (Tomb Raider 2018) or "too angry to die" (The Revenant, 2015), but instead attributes survival to the sheer will of not letting go of hope.
Makes it less hard of a watch without giving away the ending. An ending that should have either been more or less specific.
This movie does not try to show the "epic adventurer" (Tomb Raider 2018) or "too angry to die" (The Revenant, 2015), but instead attributes survival to the sheer will of not letting go of hope.
Makes it less hard of a watch without giving away the ending. An ending that should have either been more or less specific.
Good acting but predictable story
scb_coldsteel1 October 2018
Warning: Spoilers
Finally got around to seeing the Mountain Between Us. I really wanted to like this movie considering I love Kate Winslet. Kate Winslet and Idris Elba were the best part of the film. Acting wise the money was solid, but nothing groundbreaking.
Unfortunately the plot and it's progression were let downs. The movie wanted to be a intense survival film, but the characters never really felt in danger. There were far too many unbelievable moments in the film. Plus the additional romance subplot really felt unrealistic.
I just could not find myself invested in the story at all with so many forced moments. A 6.5 out of 10.
Unfortunately the plot and it's progression were let downs. The movie wanted to be a intense survival film, but the characters never really felt in danger. There were far too many unbelievable moments in the film. Plus the additional romance subplot really felt unrealistic.
I just could not find myself invested in the story at all with so many forced moments. A 6.5 out of 10.
Absorbing
WalrusOfLove5629 June 2020
I quite enjoyed this, it was pretty slow paced but absorbing none the less, the main leads of Kate Winslet and Idris Elba were well matched , I had the feeling that the two of them would reunite at the end of the film and it proved to be the case.
Don't Listen to Bad Reviews
beawriting7 October 2017
I was very excited to hear about this movie and made it the date night movie for the week. For those calling this a slow movie, it is that because this is a character piece, not an action film. This is not even about romance to me, but more how in a bad situation two people find out who they really are and overcome their fears. These fears are not about the snow, FYI. The director does not spoon feed the plot to you, he expects you to be intelligent enough to get it. Both actors did an amazing job of emoting with their body language and facial expressions. I do not think the other proposed actors could have pulled off this nuanced performance
Interesting story
faridtaee-836318 April 2020
Like Any "Mountain", It Just Feels Unmovable
travishouze6 October 2017
Some films have left me speechless. Not simply because their execution was unlike anything I've seen in the past, or opened my eyes to a story so insane thinking someone came up with this idea, but speechless cause there's so little to say about it as the film doesn't ask any new or interesting questions. The Mountain Between Us is that kind of film despite having 2 very talented actors I respect in this romantic drama.
The story begins with Idris Elba as a doctor rushing to Baltimore for surgery and Kate Winslet off to get married to her fiancé and they agree to work together to get to their destinations. However, their plane crashes into the middle of the mountains and leaves them stranded with only a golden retriever and their wits to find shelter and keep one another from falling apart.
Kate and Idris both give committed performances even through the harsh weather conditions displayed. The cinematographer sets up some pretty beautiful shots of the mountains and the scale and distance the actors are from any form of civilization so that was something I appreciated in a post "every month a CGI fest blockbuster" world. Sadly the compliments end here.
What kills the film is it's SO UTTERLY PREDICTABLE. If you have seen any romantic film ever, you know what will happen. The dialogue is void of any psychological questions of dealing with a stranger alone for weeks despite the film feels like it's only 6 days tops. Not as viewer did I feel they went through harsh conditions as Kate's hair the entire time looked freshly curled.
The Mountain Between Us on the trailer felt what could have been a solid survival film, but instead got a corny and sometimes boring romantic drama. Outside of one genuine jump scare that truly surprised me, the film just feels lost in trying to be a romantic movie and survival movie at the same time with very little chemistry to weave them together.
The story begins with Idris Elba as a doctor rushing to Baltimore for surgery and Kate Winslet off to get married to her fiancé and they agree to work together to get to their destinations. However, their plane crashes into the middle of the mountains and leaves them stranded with only a golden retriever and their wits to find shelter and keep one another from falling apart.
Kate and Idris both give committed performances even through the harsh weather conditions displayed. The cinematographer sets up some pretty beautiful shots of the mountains and the scale and distance the actors are from any form of civilization so that was something I appreciated in a post "every month a CGI fest blockbuster" world. Sadly the compliments end here.
What kills the film is it's SO UTTERLY PREDICTABLE. If you have seen any romantic film ever, you know what will happen. The dialogue is void of any psychological questions of dealing with a stranger alone for weeks despite the film feels like it's only 6 days tops. Not as viewer did I feel they went through harsh conditions as Kate's hair the entire time looked freshly curled.
The Mountain Between Us on the trailer felt what could have been a solid survival film, but instead got a corny and sometimes boring romantic drama. Outside of one genuine jump scare that truly surprised me, the film just feels lost in trying to be a romantic movie and survival movie at the same time with very little chemistry to weave them together.
Great acting great story
loreal37 October 2017
Two strangers meet under unusual circumstances. This movie is beautifully acted and filmed. I think the casting for this was perfect and makes the movie work really well. Some may complain about the pacing of the film, that is one of the things I enjoyed most about the film. It gives you a chance to settle into the movie and get to know the characters, without being bored. The characters are different and their differences are well played out and described, then you see a shift and this is what makes this a really really good movie and a remarkable love story.
This film only survives through its actors
Waedliman19 November 2020
There are films that I only watch because of the actors. Kate Winslet is always a reason for me, and Idris Elba can't do any harm either. Both of them have the ability to act very relaxed, there is never anything tense or over the top - good British acting, in other words. The story is that of a struggle for survival, but never deviates from keeping the focus on both actors. It is told in a relaxed way, has some exciting moments, but actually you ask yourself all the time whether the two get each other or not. In the end it is a romantic story with a light humour, which is mainly thanks to Winslet's laconic style. Entertaining, and very welcome in the dark times of November 2020
book was so much better
emillly_u30 December 2017
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