Even though the film is based on a tragic true story, this is surprisingly uninvolving despite the strong cast involved. There is little here beyond a somewhat formulaic script that seems determined to hit all too-familiar notes and robs the film of any real tension or emotional connection with the characters. Only Brolin and Clarke's characters are given enough development within the film to make you care about them beyond the obvious sympathy for the real people who were involved. Fortunately the film does highlight both the beauty and danger of the environment in which the climbers are working and as they reach the summit, the final hour is a gripping realization of the gradual unease of the characters as weather conditions worsen and the harsh and unforgiving nature of the storm they found themselves in. It is a shame the film offers so little insight into these characters beforehand.