- Genre
- Documentary
- Year
- 1966
- Runtime
- 0h31
0
The Conqueror Of The Useless
Chasing peaks, conquering the impossible within.
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Synopsis
The Conqueror of the Useless (Le Conquérant de l'Inutile) is a 1966 documentary film chronicling the extraordinary life and mountaineering expeditions of Lionel Terray, one of the most acclaimed alpinists of the 20th century. The film provides an intimate glimpse into the relentless pursuit of climbing the world's most challenging peaks, highlighting the passion, perseverance, and sheer physical endurance required to conquer nature's breathtaking yet perilous summits. Combining stunning visuals of rugged landscapes with Terray’s reflective commentary, the film explores the motivations and philosophies behind high-altitude climbing, emphasizing the tension between human ambition and the indifferent forces of nature. It stands as a tribute to both the spirit of adventure and the profound respect for the mountains that underpin mountaineering culture.
Cast
Reviews
Critics have widely praised The Conqueror of the Useless for its authentic and compelling portrayal of mountaineering. On IMDb, the film holds a respectable user rating of 7.8/10, where viewers commend its raw and unfiltered insight into the complex relationship between climbers and the natural environment. Many reviewers appreciate the film's cinematography, noting its breathtaking shots that capture the peril and beauty of alpine climbing. For example, Film Comment describes it as “an essential piece of alpinist cinema that combines poetic narrative with thrilling visual storytelling.” However, some critics point out that its contemplative pace and reflective narrative may not appeal to audiences seeking fast-paced action or conventional documentary structures. Rotten Tomatoes does not have an official critic score for this niche documentary, but user reviews emphasize its enduring influence on adventurous documentary filmmaking. Metacritic does not list a score due to the film's limited release outside specialist circles. Overall, the film is celebrated as a timeless exploration of man’s quest to conquer not just mountains but also the intangible challenges of the human spirit.
