(Into the Wild. 32nd HKIFF )
There are both plenty of sorrow and pleasure watching Into The Wild, an adaption by Sean Penn of the same titled nonfiction bestseller. The film is an enlightening, inspirational and moving story on the adventurous voyage of Christopher McCandless in search of true meaning in life.
What instantly strikes a chord in my heart from this film is Chris' two-year journey into-the-wild, to live in communion with the magical nature. I know I have always shared part of this passion, which I have yet the courage to live out.
The film finds resonance in a worthwhile subject of true happiness and living good lives. I wonder how many modern man has ever considered the fundamental value of life. Chris believes in utter freedoms - freedom from material possessions and freedom from society constraints. Some people may believe in love. Some may believe in Faith. Whatever it is, Into The Wild has got us thinking.
To me, the true power of the film lies in the charms and the many words of Chris McCandless. As an enthusiastic reader, he constantly quoted from his favourite writers Tolstoy and Jack London and he wrote in his journal many memorable and inspiring wisdom, which continue to stir ripples in the deepest part of my heart. Despite the tragic end he met, I couldn't help but have admiration for Chris, who was so determined and so certain of his goal in life. To us all who are still struggling with self-discovery, who are blinded by materalism and who are living a trapped life, he is a kind of hero.
(If it's any consolation to his unsettling peril, his final words in his journal read: "I have had a happy life and thank the Lord. Goodbye and May God Bless All.")
