From John Muir in the 1860s to today's super-athletes, Vertical Frontier tells the rich and captivating saga of these free-spirited climbers whose contributions to the techniques, equipment, and ethics of mountaineering enabled them to be the first to conquer Yosemite's legendary big walls. Illustrated with spectacular footage, both old and new, shot on these granite walls, the story is told by the climbers whose artistry and relentless determination helped launch a sport now enjoyed by millions around the world, including David Brower, Warren Harding, Royal Robbins, Yvon Chouinard, Tom Frost, Jim Bridwell, Lynn Hill, Hans Florine, Dean Potter, and many others. Their epic feats range from the first ascent of El Capitan, which took 45 days over a year and a half, to today's speed climbers who complete the same route in under three hours.

An introspective journey on the lessons life has taught 20 legends of the vertical world. At times brutally honest, other times pensive, these athletes' stories reveal the triumph of the human spirit, and the profound and unique connection formed as they overcome the world's fiercest physical and mental obstacles.

Once again, another visually stunning IMAX movie, with little to hold it together. We see surfing the biggest waves, climbing the tallest mountains, windsurfing big waves, climbing rock faces, and snowboarding. We hear inane comments from many of the above "athletes". Overall, it was painful to pay full movie price for a 45 minute load of eye candy.