An "Ode To The Simple Life" Dick Proenneke's masterpiece reminds us all of simpler times and of gentler souls like Muir and Thoreau, who lived in harmony with the land, taking only what they needed and nothing more. Those who must have CG and action-packed hyper-bass sound effects need not apply. This movie only requires an appreciation for the skills and fortitude it takes to live life in the wild without electricity, without complexity, and yet with a modicum of civility and amenities that you "build" with your own hands. I first saw this movie on PBS and was entranced. Having grown up in the ranching/farming country of the Similkameen valley in British Columbia, Canada, I was familiar with life in the wilderness, but had never ventured much deeper into the wild than a couple days hike from my home. Dick Proenneke's adventure was on an altogether different plane; challenging, almost spiritual in his commitment to living simply and ALONE. Proenneke's film is among the first "reality" shows that is truly REAL. There are no scripted moments, no games or strategies to rid you of unwanted competition, no prize awaiting him at the end. There's just Dick and the wilderness...and it is more addicting to watch than any of the reality survival shows on tap today. When you examine the "making of" background of the movie, you realize that Dick didn't live a pure hermit life. He had a friend that would fly in supplies with his float plane when needed (once or twice a year) and his brother did come to visit from time to time. However, he was truly "alone in the wilderness" for sometimes months at a time, particularly in the dead of winter, and I came to greatly admire Dick and all those who could live that simply, alone with themselves and for that long, without going crazy. Dick Proenneke is among a handful of folk to ever achieve what most of us only dream of. His celluloid poem grants those of us who still dream that dream the opportunity and privilege of experiencing just a little of it thru the lens and poetic thoughts of this great and yet, simple man. Dick Proenneke is one of my all-time heroes. This one is a MUST SEE, for all of those who have heard that still small voice inside, calling you back to the wild and a simpler life. Oh, and bonus ... it is totally family friendly viewing.
Review of Alone in the Wilderness
