The real problem with The Mountain Between Us is that it’s not a true story.
If strangers Alex (Kate Winslet) and Ben (Idris Elba) had actually been stranded alone together on the top of a snow-covered mountain in the middle of nowhere with lots of injuries, little food and a dog to take care of, this would be an amazing story that you’d really feel invested in.
But, alas, The Mountain Between Us is simply the figment of someone’s not very creative imagination and it’s almost laughable in its preposterousness. If it weren’t for Winslet and Elba — and, most of all, the dog — there would be no reason to waste two hours on this movie.
In fact, Michael and I really only cared about what happened to the dog. He’s kind of the star of the movie.
I love that so many other people were worried about this that the studio felt compelled to put out this special trailer for assurance. If you’re thinking of skipping the movie because you’re afraid the dog dies, check this out: https://www.facebook.com/MountainBetweenUs/videos/2013407392211449/
There are plenty of other reasons to skip the movie, though.
As the trio encountered obstacle after obstacle, Michael and I paid close attention to see what survival tips we could get out of the movie. We agreed that we would have died up there.
So, as a public service announcement, I thought I’d share what we learned from The Mountain Between Us:
. Do not get in any plane where there’s only one pilot in the cockpit unless you’ve read Flying a Plane for Dummies.
. Always travel with a doctor. Ben, conveniently, is a neurosurgeon.
. Get in shape so you can hike miles in snowdrifts, even if you have a fractured leg or cracked ribs.
. Be light enough to carry.
. Pack snacks with you.
. Splurge for the cell phone provider that has the most coverage in remote areas. Oh, and get a case that will protect your phone no matter what.
. Make sure someone knows where you’re supposed to be at all times.
. Say “I love you” every time you say good-bye to the people you love.
. If there’s a dog around, take care of the dog. No matter what, always take care of the dog.
. Skip the movie but go to the website to make that cute poster, above, of you and Idris. It will get you through anything.
Good Lord, I just woke up the neighbors with my cackles. I love an honest movie review because it’s like that mountaintop cell phone reception — elusive and rare. Thank you Lois for a humorous start to my weekend. I’ll be sharing this in my newsletter. xoxo
Thanks so much! xo
Good movies are getting more difficult to find. Even a good star is no guarantee.
I just had to read the entire article to my husband. It was just too funny not to share!
You would LOVE the dog!
Now I want to see this movie just to agree with you! 😉
Ouch! I was hoping this would be a good movie. Elba and Winslet are two of my favorites. I’m happy to hear the dog doesn’t die because I hate when that happens to animals!
This is hilarious. I appreciate your candor (and humor)!
and I read such an insightful article about Idris, part of which covered the making of this movie. Too bad it’s a dog. But thanks for the fun read and the save-your-money warning
I haven’t seen the film but the trailer reminded me of “Alive” – the true story told via book & film of survivors stranded in the Andes after their plane crashed. I’m disappointed to learn that this film is not based on a true story – sometimes I feel that movies/books that are based on true life events carry more clout (because the situation really did happen & not a figment of imagination). Great review, by the way ?
Most movies are not based on real events, so if you were lacking the connection to the characters, that’s poor writing. It seems like a simple concept driven by character. I think I would still like to see it, but I work in the industry, so I’ll pretty much watch anything.
Loved the review and I’ll probably go see the movie anyway. I already know that I am too much of a wimp to survive in a real mess so that’s no surprise. Sharing this in a roundup post to publish on 10-14-17.
Oh Lois you are too funny. Yes Idris is so handsome but I guess I will wait for the video.
It sounds so absurd. I have a screening for it but maybe I’ll miss it.
Once upon a time I said I’d see any Warren Beatty movie in order to gaze upon him for 2 hours.( Hello Dick Tracy) Nowadays I’d say the same of Idris. Call me shallow, it’s okay. But after reading this, maybe I will pass on this one.
Thanks for the warning. I will not spend my time and money on this one.
sad to see that there is a dog going through this tragedy.