Walking Out – Official Trailer I HD I IFC Films

Walking Out (2017) is a gripping survival drama directed by Alex and Andrew Smith. Set in the rugged wilderness of Montana, the film tells a harrowing story of survival, father-son bonding, and personal growth. It stars Matt Bomer as Cal, a rugged outdoorsman, and Josh Wiggins as his teenage son David. Their strained relationship is tested when a hunting trip in the remote wilderness turns into a life-or-death struggle.

Plot Summary

David, a tech-obsessed teenager from Texas, reluctantly visits his estranged father, Cal, in Montana. Hoping to reconnect, Cal takes David on a traditional hunting trip deep into the snowy backcountry. The experience is meant to teach David survival skills and help him understand his father’s way of life.

However, the trip takes a tragic turn when a violent encounter with a grizzly bear leaves Cal critically injured. David, inexperienced and overwhelmed, must draw on the survival skills his father taught him to navigate the brutal wilderness and seek help. As they face starvation, freezing temperatures, and deadly isolation, their bond deepens through shared suffering and mutual dependence.

Themes and Symbolism

Walking Out explores themes of survival, man versus nature, and the complexities of father-son relationships. The harsh wilderness serves as both a physical and symbolic backdrop, representing the emotional distance between Cal and David. The journey forces David to mature quickly, taking on the role of protector as his father’s life hangs in the balance.

The film also reflects on legacy, tradition, and rites of passage. Cal’s attempt to pass on his hunting knowledge to David symbolizes his desire to preserve family heritage, while David’s eventual struggle for survival demonstrates his inner strength and growth.

Cinematography and Atmosphere

The film’s breathtaking Montana landscapes are both beautiful and unforgiving. Snow-covered mountains, dense forests, and frozen rivers create a stark contrast between the natural world’s majesty and its lethal reality. Cinematographer Todd McMullen captures the isolation and grandeur of the wilderness with sweeping shots that heighten the sense of danger and isolation.

The film’s sound design further amplifies the tension. The quiet of the wilderness is interrupted only by the crackling of snow, the distant howl of wolves, or the breathless gasps of the characters as they struggle against the elements.