The Free Man

The Free Man is a 2016 documentary that throws the audience into the action-packed, thrill-seeking world of extreme sports, with renowned freestyle skier Jossi Wells at the center. This daring exploration is a collaborative effort between Jossi and director Toa Fraser, a two-time recipient of the Audience Award at the Toronto International Film Festival.

As a master in his domain, New Zealand native Jossi Wells is no stranger to exhilarating feats and daring tricks on the snowy slopes. However, The Free Man takes a step beyond skiing, pushing Jossi outside his comfort zone and providing him a glimpse into the world of a deadly yet completely fascinating action sport that is undoubtedly one of the most extreme in the world - base jumping.

The film takes its viewers on a gripping journey that transposes from the serene beauty of New Zealand's lofty mountains to urban landscapes, as Jossi trains and learns from The Flying Frenchies, a band of fearless adrenaline junkies known for their stupefying feats of base jumping, high-lining, and proximity flying.

This documentary is more than just the spectacular visuals, daring stunts, and edge-of-your-seat scenes though. On its surface, it might appear to be about thrill-seeking and pushing one's boundaries. But on a deeper level, the movie tackles profound themes and questions that stir one's soul and provoke thought. What drives individuals to continuously take risks? What is the correlation between freedom and fear? How does one truly live free?

Jossi Wells, a globally recognized and acclaimed X Games medalist and pro free skier, isn't just the star of this film; he is the heart and soul. Throughout the film, he allows audiences to glimpse his vulnerability and tenacity, crafting a profound narrative about a man testing his limits and seeking the essence of freedom. Jossi's journey mirrors humanity's perpetual search for liberty and the lengths at which individuals will go to experience it.

The Free Man also introduces the audience to The Flying Frenchies, a group of audacious thrill-seekers known for their unconventional combination of base-jumping and high-line walking. They explain the philosophy behind their startling endeavors, providing an intriguing insight into the minds of those who indulge in such extreme sports.

Beyond the feats of athleticism and daredevil stunts, The Free Man explores the essence of fear and how it often acts as an impetus, empowering individuals to break boundaries and overcome physical limits. It examines the contentious notion of 'living on the edge,' exploring whether it indeed provides an extraordinary sense of freedom beyond the realm of conventional understanding.

Toa Fraser elegantly directs this film, capturing breathtaking moments accurately while conveying deep, introspective themes effectively. Marrying stunning cinematography with an underlying philosophical narrative, he provides a visually captivating exploration of the human spirit.

The Free Man does not simply document the adrenaline-fueled lives of extreme sports enthusiasts. It captures the intimate conversations, the preparation processes, the unfiltered reactions, the raw emotions, and the sheer audacious spirit that inhabit and drive this community, providing a nuanced view not often captured in films of this genre.

The movie's thrills and spills are underscored by an exceptional soundtrack that not only complements but magnifies the intensity of the action, making it an adrenaline-churning spectacle. The multi-dimensional storytelling, combined with high-octane sequences, ensures a nail-biting viewing experience from the beginning until the end.

In conclusion, The Free Man is an absorbing film that effectively captures the allure and peril of extreme sports, embodying the indomitable spirit of fearlessness, exploration, and the pursuit of freedom. Through its incredible stunts, breathtaking visuals, engaging characters, and thoughtful narrative, it provides a thrilling yet introspective examination of the boundary between fear and freedom. Whether you're an extreme sports enthusiast or a casual spectator, this film elevates your understanding of what it means to be 'free.'