Gear Review - Ode to my Tent- Black Wolf Mantis I

    What to do when you find you're not in the mood to write, run or in general do something actually productive? Make a film about my tent and how much I love it. Here is the results, accompanied my Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band's song 'Tent'- which I have a horrible suspicion is referring to a different type of tent than my own. Either way it makes me smile and has a good beat.

  Here is my review of the Blackwolf's 'Mantis I' tent I've been using the last three years to walk over 2000 miles through Australia and Britain. I might be far from an expert in my field but I can say that this review comes from a thorough testing.

Tent in the middle of the Australian Outback, along the Sunshine Hinterland 2012

The Lizard, Cornwall, England 2013

RRP $269.00

Sleeps: 1
Dimensions: 255 x 220 x 80cm
Weight: 1.9kg
Floor: Polyester 5000 PU coating
Fly: Ripstop polyester 3000mm water column
Poles: (2) 8.5mm premium T6 alloy 

Features:

• 2-pole tapered rectangular design
• Spacious & lightweight
• Dual side entry
• Dual side vestibules
• Gear hammock
• Head & foot vents
• 4 guy rope points
• Ring ‘n’ pin colour-coded flexi poles
• Heat taped seams
• Waterproofpacked size 40cm x Φ15 cm  

Bought: November 2012

Miles Covered: 2000 Miles
Height: 5 foot 5 

Tan Hill, Along the Pennine Way, England 2013

I bought this as my first hiking tent while I was in Australia - since then its sheltered me along the Sunshine Hinterland Great walk (four night- 60 odd kms), Great Ocean Road (six days 100kms), Six Foot Track (3 days 40 odd kms) and god knows how many weekend exertions- one during floods. Now I'm back from Australia it has braved the considerably less mild weather of rainy England where I've walked the Pennine Way, a 450 plus kilometer hike over 15 days along the spine of England into Scotland. This summer I used it for a ten week expedition from Land's End to John o'Groats on foot covering 1200 miles (1940 Km) in one of the wettest summers for years. I've bought a few sets of new tent pegs but other than that it is barely marked. It has been put up and taken down every day; stuffed wet back into the rucksack; rolled quickly and badly in winds; all in all this tent has been treated quite roughly. The fact that it's in such good order is a testament to just how high quality this tent is. Other basic points- the porch space is very spacious, ventilation is great and although condensation collects on the inside of the tent the material dries very quickly. It is strong in high winds, no problems with the zips, packs up into a great size, and has WONDERFUL tent poles that seem to magnetically connect together. They can be flicked into place with your wrist in a matter of seconds. No sign of the string joining the tent poles snapping. Its quick to assemble if slightly tricky to put up in rain, not high enough to sit up in but material does give a little so that you can move around easily. Be aware that I am a medium to short woman and a tall man might find this tent somewhat short: my feet do touch the roof but that's because I like plenty of space above my head. This does mean that if there is a lot of condensation, and your feet touch the tent that your sleeping bag can get a little damp over a cold night.
  As I stated earlier this is my first hiking tent so I'm no expert but I can say its been superb every time I've put it up. Black Wolf Mantis I is durable and has survived me which is something that few other things have managed.  When my friend asked to borrow it I felt she'd asked for my child. I have absolutely no qualms in recommending this tent, its worth every penny been charged. The only down side is that its made by an Australian company and postage costs a bomb over the asking price. 

Devil's Kitchen Campsite along the Great Ocean Walk, Victoria 2013

Flaxton Camp Ground, Queensland

Bridge of Orchy, Land's End to John o'Groats, Scotland 2015

Day 3 of 3 Crowden to Hadfield

Short walk today, campsite to the Didsbury Intake's disused quarry, then back down to the reservoir and along the path to Had field. It's a day with a stiff climb over the first mile and then easy walking with pretty views.

  The night was cold and I woke several times. In the end I slept in to enjoy the final warmth of the morning. Not eating breakfast I packed up and headed out determined to find a pretty view from which to eat.

View up in the quarry while having lunch

View from the reservoir back to the quarry

The climb was hard but the views were great from the top and the path along the quarry pretty. It's on this path that I stopped and cooked myself some cuscus. It's the first time I'd done this in such a deliberate manner. I should have taken my shoes off and let them breath but worried about time didn't bother. My soles had began to hurt like on the Pennine way, the third day seems to be the painful one.
  The walk along the reservoir is flat and easy although I felt quite tired at this point and was glad to reach the train station and head home for a bath.
  Next hike is the big one!

Day 2 of 3 Whaley Bridge to Crowden

  Aware I had a tough day ahead I woke early enough to be gone by half eight, my route planned out and as direct as I could make it. I still had a scramble through the moors over New Mill before the serious climb up to the high peaks. The Snake path goes straight past Kinder reservoir from Hayfield to the Black Moor and the Pennine way. Then it's on the flagstones all the way to the A57 and up to the mists of Bleak Head.

  The day started misty and a little bleak, but good weather for walking. My legs seemed to be keeping up well and the first ten kilometres went past easy enough.  Paused to much on the inclines and didn't maintain too good a rhythm but I think that the major problem there is fitness.

Kinder Reservoir

  Past the Kinder Reservoir the real climb begins and I'd have struggled even more than I did if it wasn't for a group of Duke of Edinburgh setting the pase. There were dozens of them around the place.

Path leading back to Jacobs descent

  Once on the Pennine way I buckled up for the incoming rain and set a good speed across the plains. The climb up to Bleak Head which seemed to take forever, and with the weather pressing in it was hard hard work.

  The descent seemed to take even longer and it's was with great relief that I got out of the mists. Then it's across the reservoirs and along the road to the Crowden campsite.

Decent to Crowden

  This campsite is great, quiet and flat. They have a dry room, great showers and a lovely little shop. Also three pounds cheaper than Whaley Bridge.

Day 1 of 3- Wilmslow to Whaley Bridge

Campsite -Whaley Bridge

Finally got out the house and went for a proper hike. Back home now but am writing this on my phone to practice before this summer's longer hike.

I'm sharing my #hiking trip with you. Total distance 28.3km, http://my.viewranger.com/track/details/MTU0MjA1MA== . Via @ViewRanger

This hike goes from my doorstep in Wilmslow along the river Bollin to Presbury, and up to White Nancy overlooking Bollington. From White Nancy I dip down to the edge of Bollington and back up and along the outer edge of the Lyme Park estate before splitting down to Whaley Bridge. The distance is around 28 kms and there will be at least two steep climbs. The first ten kilometres however are flat and should allow me to break myself in.

Along the river Bollin valley

  The walk along the river Bollin is quite a plain but today was broken up with an incredible amount of lambs. This also kept me alert as I was conscious of getting between any mother and her babe.
  After Presbury it's a rather ugly section around the business site and across the road. Once through Presbury it's under the railway and across yet another golf course. The climb up to white Nancy was the first tough stint but mainly because I was completely out of practice. The top made it worth it and you're flung straight from the plains into the moors.

White Nancy

  Grumbling to myself I started the descent from White Nancy, aware all the while that it would mean an even steeper climb up. On a few occasions I collapsed and pretended to admire the view. Finally onto I recognized I was back at Lyme Park.
  Here I found a tractor on top of a giant pile of blue stuff. Any one have a clue what it was?

  All down hill now to Whaley Bridge and the campsite. The man who let me in was nice enough as was the rest of the people I met but I can't recommend the place for campers. The hill is very very steep to camp on and the showers are more of a warmish trickle. If they charged only a little it would be fine but they charged £7.50 which is higher than a lot of better campsites.

Crossing the fields over Whaley Bridge towards the campsite

  What made it slightly more vexing is I'd not packed a lighter for the camp stove and was left which another hour walking down into town and back. I spent the entire way down thinking of chocolate. This thought was quickly satisfied by a lot of naughty foods I'd told myself I'd avoid eating.

Preparing for a Longer Walk

 

Walk?  End to End - Lands End to John o'Groats 

When?                                              May- August

Projected days?                                 80 odd days 

Weight of Pack (estimate)?   17 kilos/ 35 pounds

Fitness

  The walk will, obviously, only be enjoyed if my body is up for the challenge. At present it is not. But I still have two months and have just secured the kind sponsorship of Wilmslow Leisure Center which will allow me access to their gym and swimming pool. I live in beautiful Cheshire, near the Pennines and beauties like Lyme Park and Styal woods. Plenty of places to explore and get my feet ready for 10 hours a day walking. ON the Pennine Way the first five days were hell on my souls, I don't want to do that again.
  What do I need to do?

1. One long walk a week, with two or so lighter ones
2. Gym 3 times a weeks with hard work outs focusing on key muscle groups (pretend here that I have a clue what that means.)
3. Eat healthier and drink a lot of water so the fitness isn't wrecked by gluttony 

  Richard at Wilmslow Leisure Center is sorting out my pass and arranging some free fitness instruction which will make a big difference. If I take proper advantage of their help there is still enough time to get my body in shape.

   I've gone on two walks in the last few weeks with my backpack full and ready to camp. This allows me to strengthen my back and legs with exactly the weight I'll be carrying along the way. The only problem I've struggled with is the cold. On the last walk I layered till I could barely lower my arms but to no avail. I shivered and got down off the moors are quickly as humanly possible. Bring on the Spring!!

Equipment- Sponsorship

 As I've walked in the past I have all the bare necessities sorted but I have been working hard to get sponsorship and upgrade as much as I can before the start. I've never walked such a length and any advantage I can get I will do with pleasure. Its my first attempt at getting sponsorship and, so long as you willing to spend a number of hours sending emails, has been very successful. So far the companies who have agreed to help me are:

View Ranger  

http://www.viewranger.com/en-gb

  View Ranger have provided me with the maps for the entire route saving me a hell of a lot of money and, even more importantly, weight. It can all be read and followed on my phone, and recorded as I walk along. I can also add photos along the way so those sponsoring me can follow my progress. It also, if you map readings on the weaker side, can use GPS to tell you exactly where you are. You can plan your route and it will tell you both the miles and elevation. This is brilliant, and the only weight it will cost me is a external battery to make sure my phone doesn't die on me half way through a day.

Berghaus

  Berghaus were kind enough to provide me with a Women's Scafell Down Jacket. I'd hoped to provide them with some stunning photos but after this shot it rained the rest of the walk and the lovely jacket was covered my another Berghaus coat to protect me from the rain. Hopefully later this week I'll be able to take a few more.  I will review it in more detail after my next walk. Here are its specifications:

• HydroDown technology: Innovative water repellent treatment absorbs 75% less water than regular Down; dries 50% faster than regular Down; will still keep you warm when wet
• Two concealed hand warmer pockets zipped
• Stretch bound cuffs

Deuter    

 Deuter has promised me a Deuter Aircontact 60+ 10 SL and I can't wait to try it out. The photo are from Australia and my smaller backpack. I actually sent these to the sponsorship department in a bid to win their support. Considering I'm currently using a 60 Liter Black backpack bought from a second hand shop for a tenner my excitement is understandable. Here are the specifications of my future baby:

• New front, quick access opening
• energy saving comfort due to the anatomically shaped and pivoting Vari Flex hip fins, which follow your every move precise load control due to compression straps on hip fins
• Pull-Forward hip belt buckle, easy to fasten even when heavily laden
• Stable multi-chamber aluminium X-frame transfers load to the hip belt
• ergonomically shaped head moulding and positionable lid pocket with compression strap allow freedom of head movement
• Three side compression straps in 60+10, 65+10 & 75+10
• Hydration system compatible side bellows pockets
• Hip belt zipped pocket
• Lid pocket
• Two daisy chains
• Top lid attachment rings
• Ice axe and hiking pole loop
• Lower side pockets for tent poles
• Double-layered base
• Integrated detachable rain cover
• Zipped map pockets on the side

   Will report back once I have it and have tested it. 

What I'm still fishing for:

  I am still emailing for a few items of equipment, one been a good lightweight warm sleeping back, possibly synthetic down. Second being a pair of hiking shoes and sandals. Wouldn't say no to a replacement tent either. But if these items are the only things I get then I'll consider myself very fortunate.

Organization- Accommodation Sponsorship

  I've spent several weeks planning my route and contacting campsites. Heres another area where you can apply for sponsorship. If the walk is for a charity, and is impressive enough, then a lot of kind souls are willing to allow you to camp for free. Considering that some of the campsites along the south west coastal path cost 10 or 12 pounds a person this is quite a gift. So far the kind souls providing me a free pitch are: 

1. Trevedra Farm Caravan and Camping Site
2. Trevalgan Touring Park  
3. Trewiston Farm Caravan Park
4. Potseath Camping 
5. Loveland Farm
6. Stoke Barton Farm
7. Cerenety Eco Campsite
8. Westacott Farm 
9. The Fairways Holiday Park  
10. Medip Camp
11. Cheddar Campsite
12. Beeches Farm Campsite
13. Wye  Tipi Camping  
14. Walton Court  
15. Brook Farm Cottage and Camp Site  
16. Newhaven Nr Buxton  
17. Low Way Farm  
18. Grandie Caravan Park
19. Border Forest Caravan Park
20. Forest view inn walkers 
21. Beinglas Farm Campsite   
22. Bunchrew Caravan Park 

   I WILL REVIEW AS I PASS THROUGH BUT FOR NOW LET ME SAY THANK YOU!  
 

Choosing and Setting up a Charity

  Choosing a charity took me quite some time. I wanted to support something which helped women in developing countries receive an education. After a bit of research I found Wilmslow Wells for Africa. They raise funds to build wells in some of the most desolate parts of Africa. In these villages women are ofter forced to walk over a mile to reach a water supply. Water borne diseases kill many and cause illness, but without any other choice there is little these people can do. A well with clean water can change so much. Now the women and children don't have to spend two hours retrieving water they can work on small businesses (such as making cheeses from their goats), their children can be sent to school and illness decreases. It doesn't work to educate women directly but it provides an environment where the chances of them leading a better life are dramatically increased. Hopefully this walk can be used to spread the word about their good work and raise enough funds to make a difference to their lives. 95 % off money donated to this charity is spend in Africa. More information can be found on their website: http://www.wilmslowwells.org/

TO DONATE

 https://www.givey.com/girlgoeshiking

Mental Preperations

  The idea of walking three months straight alone is quite daunting, its a whole term and university. I've read several guides on the subject but they are working to give you information and not an idea of what it'll be like. Your also dealing with a very subjective topic. I read two books so far, one about a hiker and the other about cycling it:

When I Walk, I Bounce: Walking from Land's End to John o'Groats

"Convinced that walking from Land's End to John o'Groats will be a pleasant way to spend the summer, Mark Moxon soon discovers that there's a lot more to crossing Britain than simply putting one foot in front of the other. In this entertaining and frequently hilarious book, Mark takes us on a journey not only of 1111 miles, but of the highs and lows of long-distance walking."

  A well written and humorous account of the walk, easy to read although I confess I did skip about a bit to which ever section I was researching. Since I am not walking this particular route some bits I ignored. I also lover the moors and hate any type of road walking, he is the opposite way inclined and therefore a lot of the moaning in sections I ignored. He hated the Pennine Way while I love it.
  Worth a read.


Free Country: A Penniless Adventure the Length of Britain

 
" The plan is simple. George and Ben have three weeks to cycle 1000 miles from the bottom of England to the top of Scotland. There is just one small problem… they have no bikes, no clothes, no food and no money. Setting off in just a pair of Union Jack boxer shorts, they attempt to rely on the generosity of the British public for everything from food to accommodation, clothes to shoes, and bikes to beer.

During the most hilarious adventure, George and Ben encounter some of Great Britain's most eccentric and extraordinary characters and find themselves in the most ridiculous situations. Free Country is guaranteed to make you laugh (you may even shed a tear). It will restore your faith in humanity and leave you with a big smile on your face and a warm feeling inside"



   A great read but you wouldn't catch me dead trying it. I feel unprepared as it is and I have every single piece of gear needed. I am to receive free accommodation but obtained through emails not face to face appeals. Still is gives you courage that is they can do it then surely you, with everything you might need, can. Even if your walking it like me its worth a read.

Wilmslow To Lyme Park

  Last week I went on a day jaunt along the Bollin river and the edge of the Pennines. Its a very flat walk, easy to navigate and a perfect for my first attempt since last summer to carry my rucksack. Since it was half term I took my younger brother who, while he's a big fan of football, does not see the point of walking. I expected winning so took my earphones.
  We set off early and were rewarded my wonderful frost covered landscapes.We walked across the field heading East of Wilmslow towards Prestbury.

  After about an hour or two we curved along a golf course across the bridge and past top o' hill and across Bonis Hill Lane and north east towards Adlington.

  While crossing these farms there seemed to be an awful lot of dead foxes, we counted at least five at different levels of decomposition. Didn't m,ake us feel very safe and we were glad when we left. The sun was high though and is smelt and looked like spring was pushing away the winter.
  Once through Adlington we headed up a wooded path and climbed the hill to see Lyme park's guard tower in the distance. It had taken us around four hours of walking, not particular hard ones, but it  felt like an accomplishment.

   What did surprise me is how easily I carried the backpack, my back hadn't hurt at all the entire way. The phone camera was also well tested and as you can see from the picks above, it isn't half bad. Will test it again when I'm off on an overnighter next week.

Hiking and Wilderness Films and Documentaries

   Below is a list of films I've seen over the last few years which inspire me to plan my next journey, or soothe my withdraw in winter when its too cold to camp out. Will add to this as I find new ones. They are in no particular order:

Wild (2014) 7.3/10  IMBD Rating

A chronicle of one woman's 1,100-mile solo hike undertaken as a way to recover from a recent catastrophe. (115 mins.)

Director: Jean-Marc Vallée

Stars: Reese Witherspoon, Laura Dern, Gaby Hoffmann, Michiel Huisman

  I rather love this film but I'm not sure how much you would unless you've experienced some of the things she did while hiking. The aching feet, trail food and the suspicions that your completely over you're head and on the ledge are captured perfectly. Reese Witherspoon is wonderful, and captured the spirit of the novel. A few characters and events in the book are left out of the film, things are moved around a little but the essence is there and the film shines through as the books equal. Its largely about Cheryl Strayed spiritual journey, and while I was captivated by her story, what I adored was watching the physical aspects of the hike and the scenery she past through. All this on top of a good script, good directing and atmospheric music makes a must see film for any outdoor enthusiast.

Tracks (2013)

A young woman goes on a 1,700-mile trek across the deserts of West Australia with four camels and her faithful dog. (112 mins.)

Director: John Curran

Stars: Mia Wasikowska, Adam Driver, Lily Pearl, Philip Dodd

  7.2/10  

   This woman is very different from Cheryl Strayed in 'Wild'. Her need for solitude stems from a loss of faith in other people rather than a loss of faith in herself. The film explored more the environment she goes through, the state of mind she's in and the political and social debates surrounding the aborigine people and their territories in 1970s Australia.  You see her tired and sunburned but at no point does the film focus on the physicality of the expedition.  Neither does it try to make her too likeable or open character, which is something I like. Its an intriguing film and well worth a watch. The moment I finished it I began the book.

127 Hours (2010)

    7.7/10  

A mountain climber becomes trapped under a boulder while canyoneering alone near Moab, Utah and resorts to desperate measures in order to survive. (94 mins.)

Director: Danny Boyle

Stars: James Franco, Amber Tamblyn, Kate Mara, Sean Bott

   Out of all the films this is probably the most artistically shot and creative. I watched it the first time on the steps outside the kibbutz dorm . I needed to since I shared a room with two other girls and didn't want to disturb them as I shouted and screamed at the screen. Never will you feel more involved in a characters plight. The story plot it well known and I watched it expecting a dark and gritty film . In fact, while everything bad you know is going to happen is gone through with gory and excruciating artistry, your left feeling incredibly optimistic about life. Like a lot of these films its focus isn't pain and disaster but the strength of will and drive to survive of the main character. James Franco performed exquisitely and the music, and affects all serve to make a poetic and poignant film

Walking the Nile (2015 TV Series)

  10/10  

Documentary about Ex-soldier and explorer Levison Wood who embarks on a quest to walk the entire length of the River Nile.

Director: Jamie Berry

Stars: Levison Wood

  Watched this last night...quite incredible a person and project. The pure determination really inspires you, plus makes any poultry adventure you have planned look doable no matter how hard you struggle to complete it. The millage this man covers! Well shot, informative and a wonderfully nonjudgmental open look at the people that live around the Nile. Through his journey you see the generosity and intricacy of different cultures, as well as the strife and horrors which war torn countries are faced with. Levison Wood came across as the most open, patient and energetic travel companion I've ever seen in my life. At no point during thirty mile plus days did he seem to turn on anyone. Half way through the desert I would have been horrible to whom ever came close. I found him charming, engaging and funny. Really blown away by the entire series and can't way to read the book- although I might save it for when I go on my next long walk. And he listens to audiobooks when he walks!!!! My kind of chap.  

The Way (2010)

    7.4/10  

A father heads overseas to recover the body of his estranged son who died while traveling the "El camino de Santiago," and decides to take the pilgrimage himself. (123 mins.)

Director: Emilio Estevez

Stars: Martin Sheen, Emilio Estevez, Deborah Kara Unger, Yorick van Wageningen

    The Way is a sweet film but as far as filmography, originality and script its not in the same league as the ones above. I love Martin Sheen and all the other characters are believable and charming but there's nothing much more to it and my affection for the film stems from the fact that the plot follow the characters through Spain on foot. It has made me put Camino de Santiago on my to do list and captures the feel and vibrancy of the pilgrimage.

 

5. Mile... Mile & a Half (2013 Documentary)

  8/10  

In an epic snow year, five friends leave their daily lives behind to hike California's historic John Muir Trail... (87 mins.)

Director: Jason M. Fitzpatrick, Ric Serena

Stunning footage and nicely edited with care and love taken with the details. A lovely documentary for hikers. While I would never have the strength to drag all that equipment with me when I go out walking watching this I was tempted. The people walking it are likeable, and seem wonderfully inclusive. I'd love to encounter them on a trail.

Cast Away (2000)

    7.7/10  

A FedEx executive must transform himself physically and emotionally to survive a crash landing on a deserted island. (143 mins.)

Director: Robert Zemeckis

Stars: Tom Hanks, Helen Hunt, Paul Sanchez, Lari White

  Everyone knows this film, and a review seems a tad unneeded. Tom Hanks is great and while its more about survival than adventure it still stimulated the imagination. Its a wonderfully silent film, the lack of music and speech serves to emphasize his isolation and loveliness. Tom Hank's transformation through the film is believable and captivating. Every year or so I find myself watching it at least once.

Touching the Void (2003 Documentary)

    8.1/10  

The true story of two climbers and their perilous journey up the west face of Siula Grande in the Peruvian Andes in 1985. (106 mins.)

Director: Kevin Macdonald

Stars: Simon Yates, Joe Simpson, Brendan Mackey, Nicholas Aaron

   I read 'Touching the Void' quite recently and Joe Simpson had me wrapped in a duvet in defense. The tension and  descriptive nature of the narration had me instantly. After I'd finished I both wanted to climb a mountain and stay as far as I could from them. The film/documentary isn't the books equal but its beautifully done and allows you to understand and visualize his experiences the better. Part of me wanted an Americanized version, camera up close in an actors face but it would have lacked the honesty and grittiness of these reenactments and interviews. It does, as the book, come across as a wonderful defense of Simon Yates, and an expression of the friendship and loyalty they have for one another.

Into the Wild (2007)

    8.2/10  

After graduating from Emory University, top student and athlete Christopher McCandless abandons his possessions, gives his entire $24,000 savings account to charity and hitchhikes to Alaska to live in the wilderness. Along the way, Christopher encounters a series of characters that shape his life. (148 mins.)

Director: Sean Penn

Stars: Emile Hirsch, Vince Vaughn, Catherine Keener, Marcia Gay Harden

  This is a film which made me so so cross, and simultaneously sad. I find the main character naive, indulgent and self absorbed. I suspect people watch this in a variety of perspectives. I saw this journey through his mothers eyes and felt her pain and sense of abandonment, I also felt that he was the cause. This prejudiced me against the entire film although I confess its flawlessly shot and scripted- I appreciate that its a beautifully made film that drew really strong emotions from me but I plan to avoid any re-watching. If nothing else it serves as a reminder to really prep, not be too full hardy, and for god sake tell people where your going.

Swiss Family Robinson (1960)

    7.2/10  

A Swiss family must survive being shipwrecked on a deserted island. (126 mins.)

Director: Ken Annakin

Stars: John Mills, Dorothy McGuire, James MacArthur, Janet Munro

  Who didn't love this while growing up? The girl disguised as a boy, the pirates and the instantly tame assortment of animals which surrounded them. Even now it is a charming film which makes you want to build a tree house and live in the midst of the woods.

The Snow Walker (2003)

    7.4/10  

A pilot and his passenger struggle for survival after crashing in the Arctic tundra. (103 mins.)

Director: Charles Martin Smith

Stars: Barry Pepper, Annabella Piugattuk, James Cromwell, Kiersten Warren

  This film holds the quiet intensity of Tracks, as well as the conflict and relationship between the 'civilized' world and the natives' more 'primitive'. By placing a racist and self serving pilot in the middle of a foreign and fierce environment the viewer learns to appreciate a different type of society where the value of the education receives is altered by what environment they are in. The learned pilot becomes as vulnerable and ignorant as a child while her skills allow them t survive. The relationship between the two main characters is stunning, and subtle. Its another gritty survival film, a drama rather than an adventure, but I love it all the same.