What makes a relationship work? Filmmaker Desiree Akhavan once said it’s about finding someone to fall in love with over and over again. This idea doesn’t just apply to romance, but friendships too.
In the film, we first hear Chris (Bart Harder) and Lluis (Carles Pulido) chatting against a backdrop of majestic mountains. Lluis reveals it’s his last night there, and Chris wants to know how he wants to spend it. The bond they share feels precious, hinting at a special connection that may have been strained by time apart.
Ten years later, we find them walking in Milngavie. They haven’t seen each other in years, yet their excitement is palpable. They stroll past familiar shops and aim for two challenging trails: the West Highland Way and the Cape Wrath Trail. They plan to tackle this in 28 days, averaging about 12.5 miles each day. Sounds easy, right? But the reality is much tougher—steep paths, rough ground, and unpredictable weather await them.
People hike for various reasons. During their journey, Chris shares he’s thinking about starting a family soon and wants one last adventure. However, he’s constantly distracted by work calls, showing how adult responsibilities intrude on his freedom. Lluis’s motivations are less clear and shift as they hike, from proving something to gaining a deeper connection with nature. Both worry about the other losing his way in life, reflecting different perspectives on what truly matters.
The trek is grueling. Lluis deals with a knee injury, and both men are tormented by pesky midges. A navigation mishap shows the risks; every year, some adventurers get lost in these mountains and don’t make it back. While they meet friendly faces and stay in basic shelters along the way, the strain on their friendship becomes apparent, especially when Chris discovers Lluis has kept a significant event from him.
Creating this film meant the cast and crew had to experience the trails firsthand. Some parts are unreachable by road, and unpredictable weather conditions made filming challenging. Cinematographer Twan Peeters had to adapt on the go, capturing the stunning yet harsh beauty of the Highlands. The scenery is breathtaking, featuring dark hills shrouded in mist and shimmering lochs. But the film also shows the reality of hiking—mud, rain, and strong winds, elements often glossed over in promotional materials.
The film does drag at times, with pacing issues due to its thoughtful approach. Yet, it’s hard not to appreciate its gorgeous visuals. For those who crave adventure, watching this can spark the desire to explore these trails themselves.
In recent trends, outdoor activities like hiking have gained immense popularity. A 2023 survey by the Outdoor Industry Association found that more people are venturing into nature than ever before. With a growing awareness of mental health benefits from spending time outdoors, these trails offer both physical and emotional rewards.
In summary, Chris and Lluis’s journey explores friendship, the allure of the wild, and what we gain by stepping out of our comfort zones. Amid the breathtaking landscapes, the film underscores the importance of connection—whether with nature or each other.
