Pub.lished Movie Reviews
The Eiger Sanction (1975)
"The Eiger Sanction," a film released in 1975, boasts an exceptional element that distinguishes it from other thrillers of its era. It is the spectacle of Clint Eastwood, not a stunt double, perilously perched on actual cliff faces. Such a feat is genuinely impressive and lends a palpable sense of authenticity to the film.
However, the production was not without its tragedies. During the filming, David Knowles, a 26-year-old British climber, was tragically killed on the Eiger. The danger was real, as evidenced by this loss. While filming the climbers' perspective of the boulders tumbling downwards, a massive rock broke free and struck the climbers, killing Knowles and severely injuring Hoover, who sustained a fractured pelvis and extensive bruising. Eastwood, deeply affected by the tragedy, considered halting the production, but was persuaded by the surviving climbers to continue. They assured him that they were all well aware of the inherent risks of their profession and didn't wish for Knowles' death to be in vain.
The film also takes us to the lands of the Navajo Nation, where the Totem Pole, a formation that holds religious significance to the Navajos, is located. The Navajos had prohibited climbing on the formation due to its sacredness, but Hoover was able to secure permission from the tribal authorities for his team to climb it. The purpose was not to desecrate, but to restore the monolith to its pristine condition by removing pitons and other climbing hardware left by previous climbers.
The ascent was accomplished by two climbers from Moab, Eric Bjornstad and Ken Wyrick, who were responsible for prepping the summit for the helicopter film crew and for the removal of the existing hardware. After they reached the summit, they were airlifted off, and Eastwood and Kennedy were lowered onto the 18-ft-wide summit. This moment resulted in one of Eastwood's most cherished filmmaking memories: watching the sun set over Monument Valley, the location of numerous classic Western films.
- You are not a fan of adventure or crime films.
- Scenes of intense mountain climbing make you uncomfortable.
- You are under 16. The film contains violence and some sexuality.
- You don't like movies from the 70's.
- You are not interested in spy thrillers.
Warning: The following may contain spoilers:
What's the deal with "The Eiger Sanction," huh? I mean, here we have Clint Eastwood, the quintessential cowboy, the iconic tough guy. He's been the good, the bad, the ugly, and now he's, what, the mountain climber? I mean, come on. Is there any job this guy won't do? Next, you'll tell me he's a part-time pastry chef.
And the plot, oh boy, the plot. You've got an art professor who's also a professional assassin, who then becomes a mountain climber to... kill another mountain climber? I mean, who's signing off on these operations? Couldn't they just, I dunno, poison his granola bars or something?
The Terminator (1984)
Aficionados of "The Eiger Sanction" (1975) will appreciate "The Terminator" (1984) for its intense, adrenaline-pumping action sequences and its strong, charismatic lead. Just as Clint Eastwood's character in "The Eiger Sanction" is a tough, resourceful hero who must overcome a significant threat, Arnold Schwarzenegger's character in "The Terminator" is a relentless machine pushing the boundaries of survival. Both movies are filled with suspense and high stakes, offering a similar thrilling ride to viewers.
Goldfinger (1964)"The Eiger Sanction" and "Goldfinger" are classic action thrillers that offer a blend of suspense, adventure and espionage. They feature charismatic leads in Clint Eastwood and Sean Connery, who portray skilled agents navigating dangerous missions, with a mix of physicality, wit, and charm. The narratives are filled with intriguing twists, exotic locations, and memorable villains, providing a captivating visual experience. Moreover, they both exemplify a vintage style of filmmaking, with their unique blend of suspense and humor, making them timeless classics in the spy genre.
The Dirty Dozen (1967)Those who love "The Eiger Sanction" (1975) will also love "The Dirty Dozen" (1967) because both films are thrilling action-packed adventures driven by anti-heroes who are reluctantly tasked with dangerous missions. The former features Clint Eastwood as an assassin turned mountain climber while the latter showcases Lee Marvin leading a squad of convicted murderers on a suicide mission during WWII. Both movies are rich in suspense, unexpected twists, compelling characters, and showcase a rugged, individualistic masculinity. Furthermore, they both embody the gritty, morally complex ethos of their respective eras, captivating audiences with their blend of high stakes action and psychological depth.
Magnum Force (1973)"The Eiger Sanction" (1975) and "Magnum Force" (1973) are action-packed thrillers featuring a strong, charismatic male lead played by Clint Eastwood. In both films, Eastwood's character is pitted against a dangerous adversary, and must use his wit, skill, and sheer force to survive and defeat his foes. The films' similar tone, pacing, and style, along with Eastwood's magnetic performances, make them appealing to the same audience.
The Enforcer (1976)Those who love "The Eiger Sanction" (1975) will also love "The Enforcer" (1976) as both are quintessential Clint Eastwood films from the 70s, filled with suspense, action, and thrilling narrative arcs. Both films feature Eastwood in his prime, delivering strong and charismatic performances in roles that are both physically demanding and emotionally challenging. The grit, suspense, and narrative twists in both films are comparable, as Eastwood's character in each movie navigates dangerous missions, combat scenarios, and complex relationships. Furthermore, the films share a similar visual aesthetic and pacing that is characteristic of Eastwood's style during this period of his career. So, for fans of Eastwood's action-packed, suspenseful, and character-driven films, "The Enforcer" offers a similarly engaging and enjoyable viewing experience as "The Eiger Sanction."
Sudden Impact (1983)"The Eiger Sanction" (1975) and "Sudden Impact" (1983) are thrilling action films that center around a rugged, lone-wolf protagonist, played by Clint Eastwood, who is driven by a personal motive. "The Eiger Sanction" follows a retired assassin forced back into the game, and "Sudden Impact" presents a hard-nosed detective investigating a murder spree. films are filled with intense action sequences, unexpected plot twists, and Eastwood's signature tough-guy charisma, making them appealing to viewers who enjoy suspenseful, character-driven action narratives.
Top Gun (1986)"The Eiger Sanction" (1975) and "Top Gun" (1986) are adrenaline-fueled action thrillers that center around highly skilled, daring protagonists. "The Eiger Sanction," featuring Clint Eastwood as a retired assassin turned mountain climber, and "Top Gun," with Tom Cruise as a hotshot fighter pilot, both offer a blend of intense action sequences, dramatic character development, and a hint of romance. These films present a high-stakes, thrilling narrative along with iconic performances that would appeal to those who enjoy a classic, character-driven action movie.
Lethal Weapon (1987)"The Eiger Sanction" (1975) and "Lethal Weapon" (1987) are both thrilling action films that share a number of common elements likely to appeal to the same audience. Both films feature a charismatic, yet troubled, protagonist who is highly skilled in their field and must navigate a dangerous mission. The narratives blend high-stakes action sequences, suspense, intrigue, and a subtle touch of humor, offering a compelling mixture of entertainment. Therefore, fans of The Eiger Sanction's gripping mountain climbing sequences, espionage plot, and Clint Eastwood's performance will likely also appreciate the combination of buddy-cop dynamics, explosive action scenes, and Mel Gibson's portrayal in Lethal Weapon.
The Hunt for Red October (1990)Both "The Eiger Sanction" (1975) and "The Hunt for Red October" (1990) are suspenseful thrillers that are sure to captivate viewers who appreciate complex plots, political intrigue, and intense action sequences. "The Eiger Sanction," set in the world of mountain climbing, features an art history professor turned assassin, while "The Hunt for Red October," set in the high-stakes environment of the Cold War, focuses on a Soviet submarine captain's defection to the West. Both films showcase charismatic leading men (Clint Eastwood and Sean Connery, respectively) who deliver compelling performances, and are directed by renowned filmmakers (Eastwood and John McTiernan) who are masters of their craft.
True Lies (1994)"The Eiger Sanction" (1975) and "True Lies" (1994) are thrilling action-packed films that successfully blend elements of espionage, high-stakes missions, and suspenseful plot twists. The protagonists in both films, Clint Eastwood's Dr. Jonathan Hemlock in "The Eiger Sanction" and Arnold Schwarzenegger's Harry Tasker in "True Lies," are highly skilled agents with complex personal lives. Both films also share a similar tone, combining serious action sequences with moments of humor and romance. Moreover, the spectacular stunts and breathtaking settings in both films add to their appeal. Therefore, if you enjoy the thrilling sequences, intriguing characters, and plot complexity in "The Eiger Sanction," you are likely to appreciate "True Lies" as well.
North by Northwest (1959):Just like "The Eiger Sanction," this film is a classic espionage thriller directed by the Master of Suspense himself, Alfred Hitchcock. Cary Grant stars as an advertising executive being chased across the country, culminating in the iconic Mount Rushmore sequence – it reminds one of The Eiger Sanction's cliffhanging elements.
The French Connection (1971):This crime thriller won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Gene Hackman, and it carries the same gritty realism that The Eiger Sanction has. The French Connection is renowned for its superb car chase scenes, simmering tension, and incredible performances. It should be right up your alley if you are a fan of intense thrillers.
Charade (1963):The suspenseful yet light-hearted tone and the masterful execution of Charade may appeal to fans of The Eiger Sanction. Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant star in this romantic comedy mystery, filled with playful banter, intriguing suspense, and scenic European backdrops.
The Spy Who Loved Me (1977):If you enjoy the blend of action, adventure, drama and espionage within The Eiger Sanction, this James Bond installment might be for you. A high-energy spy thriller/journey filled with exotic locales, larger-than-life characters and daring stunts, The Spy Who Loved Me is considered one of the best entries in the Bond franchise.
Day of the Jackal (1973):This British-French political thriller approaching from the angle of a professional assassin may be of interest to you. It's a tense and intelligent film, much like The Eiger Sanction. Its documentary-style narrative and meticulous attention to detail heightens the suspense and keeps viewers on edge.
Like this? Then click here to see more action movies
