🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 186 (from laksa111)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa186.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/into-the-wild\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/into-the-wild\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/into-the-wild","crawl_time":1776070553,"first_indexed_time":1393874150,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,commonsensemedia!www,\/movie-reviews\/into-the-wild s443","src_root_hash":"2436357595599453786","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Into the Wild Movie Review | Common Sense Media","meta_descriptions":["Powerful, tragic true story is too heavy for kids. Read Common Sense Media's Into the Wild review, age rating, and parents guide."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Common Sense Media Review\nage 16+\nPowerful, tragic true story is too heavy for kids.\nParents Need to Know\nWhy Age 16+?\nAny Positive Content?\nVideos and Photos\n1:44\n1:44\n1:44\n(5)\n(9)\nage 16+\nBased on     5 parent reviews\nage 14+\nBased on     9 kid reviews\nWhat's the Story?\nBased on\nJon Krakauer\n's nonfiction best-seller\nInto the Wild\n,\nSean Penn's\nadaptation martyrs Christopher McCandless (\nEmile Hirsch\n) as an intelligent, idealistic, 24-year-old college graduate who gives his trust fund to Oxfam, burns the remainder of his cash, and takes off on an extended journey into the wilderness. Chris makes a life-changing impression on everyone he meets, including two hippies (\nCatherine Keener\n, Brian Dierker); a grain elevator foreman (\nVince Vaughn\n); a 16-year-old folk singer (\nKristen Stewart\n); and, most touchingly, a lonely elderly man (Hal Holbrook). Despite the seemingly deep human connections he fosters throughout his tramping days, Chris is single-mindedly focused on one goal: getting to Alaska and living off the land for a few months all by himself. In fact, he arrives there early in the film, camping out in a \"magic\" bus that had been parked long ago as a crude base camp; flashbacks fill in the two years leading up to that point. The back-and-forth between Chris' days in Alaska and his time as Alexander the hitchhiker is effective, poignantly reminding the viewer of the kind of big-hearted man he could have resumed being had he been able to walk back out of the wilderness.\nIs It Any Good?\nOur review:\nWhether or not you agree with the accuracy of the portrayal, it's fascinating -- beautiful, even -- to see a young man embark on his own hero's journey. Every performance in Penn's film is noteworthy. Hirsch, who's in practically every scene of the two-and-a-half-hour film, gives a startling, career-high performance--he fully embodies Chris. The excellent\nsoundtrack\nfeatures several songs by Eddie Vedder. But one of the most impressive triumphs of the movie is its gorgeous cinematography. The \"simple beauty\" Chris so cherishes in nature is perfectly captured. Even in his final moments (at least in the film), Chris -- now starved and emaciated -- has nature's beauty to comfort him. If only he could have told his story himself.\nIn real life, the cult of Christopher McCandless has little meaning to critics (mostly Alaskan) who believe that the idealistic 24-year-old wanderer basically committed suicide. Those who don't consider McCandless praiseworthy probably won't enjoy this film adaptation.\nTalk to Your Kids About ...\nFamilies can talk about whether knowing Chris' fate ahead of time affects the impact of the movie. If so, how? If not, why? Are movies based on real lives\/true stories more interesting than those that are pure fiction? Families can also discuss how you feel about Chris after watching the movie. What honorable\/admirable things did he accomplish? How did he impact the people he came to know on the road? On the other hand, did he treat his parents and sister fairly? Should he have contacted his family?\nMovie Details\nIn theaters\n:\nSeptember 21, 2007\nOn DVD or streaming\n:\nMarch 3, 2008\nCast\n:\nEmile Hirsch\n,\nMarcia Gay Harden\n,\nWilliam Hurt\nDirector\n:\nSean Penn\nInclusion Information\n:\nFemale Movie Actor(s)\nStudio\n:\nParamount Vantage\nGenre\n:\nDrama\nRun time\n:\n153 minutes\nMPAA rating\n:\nR\nMPAA explanation\n:\nlanguage and some nudity.\nLast updated\n:\nJune 12, 2025\nDid we miss something on diversity?\nResearch shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new \"Diverse Representations\" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to main content](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/into-the-wild#main-content)\n\n- [For Parents](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/)\n- [For Educators](https:\/\/www.commonsense.org\/education)\n- [Our Work and Impact](https:\/\/www.commonsense.org\/)\n\nLanguage:\n\nEnglish\n\nEnglish\n\n[Español](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/es\/resenas-movie\/camino-salvaje)\n\nSearch\n\n### Or browse by category:\n- [Movies](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews)\n- [TV shows](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/tv-reviews)\n- [Books](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/book-reviews)\n- [Apps](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/app-reviews)\n- [Games](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/game-reviews)\n- [Parenting](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles)\n\n- [Sign in](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/user\/login)\n- [Join us](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/join)\n\n- [Movies](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews)\n  - Movie Reviews and Lists\n    - [Movie Reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews)\n    - [Best Movie Lists](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-lists)\n    - [Common Sense Selections for Movies](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/category\/movie\/tag\/common-sense-selections-31822\/sort\/date-desc)\n  - Marketing Campaign\n    - [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_xsmall\/public\/menu-addons\/mega-menu-image-50-modern-movies.jpg)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/lists\/50-modern-movies-all-kids-should-watch-before-theyre-12)\n      \n      ### [50 Modern Movies All Kids Should Watch Before They're 12](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/lists\/50-modern-movies-all-kids-should-watch-before-theyre-12)\n  - The Common Sense Seal\n    - [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_xsmall\/public\/menu-addons\/selection-seal-350.png)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/category\/movie\/tag\/common-sense-selections-31822\/sort\/date-desc)\n      \n      ### [Common Sense Selections for Movies](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/category\/movie\/tag\/common-sense-selections-31822\/sort\/date-desc)\n- [TV](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/tv-reviews)\n  - TV Reviews and Lists\n    - [TV Reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/tv-reviews)\n    - [Best TV Lists](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/tv-lists)\n    - [Common Sense Selections for TV](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/category\/tv\/tag\/common-sense-selections-31822\/sort\/date-desc)\n    - [Video Reviews of TV Shows](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/video\/tv-reviews)\n  - Marketing Campaign\n    - [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_xsmall\/public\/menu-addons\/mega-menu_best-kids-tv-shows-on-disney.jpg)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/best-of-lists\/best-kids-tv-shows-on-disney-plus)\n      \n      ### [Best Kids' Shows on Disney+](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/best-of-lists\/best-kids-tv-shows-on-disney-plus)\n  - Marketing Campaign\n    - [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_xsmall\/public\/menu-addons\/mega-menu_best-kids-tv-shows-on-netflix.jpg)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/best-of-lists\/best-kids-tv-shows-on-netflix)\n      \n      ### [Best Kids' TV Shows on Netflix](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/best-of-lists\/best-kids-tv-shows-on-netflix)\n- [Books](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/book-reviews)\n  - Book Reviews and Lists\n    - [Book Reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/book-reviews)\n    - [Best Book Lists](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/book-lists)\n    - [Common Sense Selections for Books](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/category\/book\/tag\/common-sense-selections-31822\/sort\/date-desc)\n  - Article About Books\n    - [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_xsmall\/public\/menu-addons\/2022-how-to-raise-a-reader_mega-menu.jpg)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/how-to-raise-a-reader)\n      \n      ### [8 Tips for Getting Kids Hooked on Books](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/how-to-raise-a-reader)\n  - Marketing Campaign for Books\n    - [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_xsmall\/public\/menu-addons\/mega-menu_50-books-all-kids-should-read-before-theyre-12.jpg)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/lists\/50-books-all-kids-should-read-before-theyre-12)\n      \n      ### [50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/lists\/50-books-all-kids-should-read-before-theyre-12)\n- [Gaming](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/parents-ultimate-guides\/gaming)\n  - App Reviews and Lists\n    - [Fortnite](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-fortnite)\n    - [Minecraft](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-minecraft)\n    - [Roblox](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-roblox-2024)\n    - [All Game Reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/game-reviews)\n- [Social Media](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/parents-ultimate-guides\/social-media)\n  - Podcast Reviews and Lists\n    - [Social Media](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-social-media)\n    - [Snapchat](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-snapchat)\n    - [Instagram](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-instagram)\n    - [TikTok](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-tiktok)\n- [Parents' Guides](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/parents-ultimate-guides)\n  - By Age & Stage\n    - [Preschoolers (2-4)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-your-2-to-4-year-olds-digital-world)\n    - [Little Kids (5-7)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-your-5-to-7-year-olds-digital-world)\n    - [Big Kids (7-9)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-your-7-to-9-year-olds-digital-world)\n    - [Tweens (10-12)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-your-10-to-12-year-olds-digital-world)\n    - [Teens (13-15)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-your-13-to-15-year-olds-digital-world)\n  - By Topic\n    - [Digital Parenting Anxiety](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-managing-digital-parenting-anxiety)\n    - [First Phones](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-first-phones-2024)\n    - [Social Media](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-social-media-2024)\n    - [Parental Controls](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-parental-controls)\n    - [AI Companions](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-ai-companions-and-relationships)\n    - [Generative AI](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-generative-ai)\n  - What's New\n    - [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_xsmall\/public\/blog\/2026-ai-in-the-toy-box_social-share.jpg)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-ai-toys)\n      \n      ### [Parents' Ultimate Guide to AI Toys](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-ai-toys)\n    - [All Parents' Ultimate Guides](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/parents-ultimate-guides)\n- [Tips & FAQs](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles)\n  - Column 1\n    - [Family Tech Planners](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/family-tech-planners)\n    - [Digital Skills](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/digital-skills)\n    - [All Articles](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles)\n  - Column 2\n    - [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_xsmall\/public\/menu-addons\/carpool-coversations_thumbnail-final_1000x563.png)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/carpool-conversations)\n      \n      ### [Carpool Conversations](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/carpool-conversations)\n  - Column 3\n    - [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_xsmall\/public\/menu-addons\/2-truths-and-ai-answer-key_social-share.jpg)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/two-truths-and-ai)\n      \n      ### [Two Truths & AI](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/two-truths-and-ai)\n- [Celebrating Community](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/celebrating-community)\n  - Menu for Latino Content\n    - [Latino Culture](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/celebrate-latino-culture)\n    - [Black Voices](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/celebrate-black-voices)\n    - [Asian Stories](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/celebrate-asian-stories)\n    - [Native Narratives](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/celebrate-native-narratives)\n    - [LGBTQ+ Pride](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/celebrate-lgbtq-pride)\n    - [Jewish Experiences](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/exploring-the-jewish-experience)\n    - [Best of Diverse Representation List](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/best-for-diversity-for-kids)\n  - FACE English Column 2\n    - [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_xsmall\/public\/menu-addons\/mega-menu_multicultural-books.jpg)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/lists\/multicultural-books)\n      \n      ### [Multicultural Books](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/lists\/multicultural-books)\n  - FACE English Column 3\n    - [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_xsmall\/public\/menu-addons\/mega-menu_youtube-kids-channels-with-diverse-representations.jpg)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/youtube-kids-channels-with-diverse-representations)\n      \n      ### [YouTube Channels with Diverse Representations](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/youtube-kids-channels-with-diverse-representations)\n  - FACE English Column 4\n    - [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_xsmall\/public\/menu-addons\/mega-menu_podcasts-with-diverse-characters-and-stories.jpg)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/lists\/podcasts-with-diverse-characters-and-stories)\n      \n      ### [Podcasts with Diverse Characters and Stories](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/lists\/podcasts-with-diverse-characters-and-stories)\n- [Donate](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/donate)\n\n# Parents' Guide to  Into the Wild\nMovie   R   2007   153 minutes\n\nSave\n\n![Into the Wild Poster Image](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_2_3_small.png)\n\n- [Common Sense Says](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/into-the-wild#tab-ea757af1-e2eb-42ac-9039-ecd0468e7beb0)\n- [Parents Say 5 Reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/into-the-wild#tab-ea757af1-e2eb-42ac-9039-ecd0468e7beb1)\n- [Kids Say 9 Reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/into-the-wild#tab-ea757af1-e2eb-42ac-9039-ecd0468e7beb2)\n\n### Common Sense Media Review\n![Sandie Angulo Chen](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_1_1_xsmall\/public\/user-pictures\/299677-1592017240.jpg) By  **[Sandie Angulo Chen](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/bio\/sandie-angulo-chen)** , based on child development research. [How do we rate?](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/about-us\/our-mission\/about-our-ratings)\n\nage 16+\n\nPowerful, tragic true story is too heavy for kids.\n\n## Parents Need to Know\nParents need to know that this long (140 minutes) drama is based on the true story of a college graduate who decided to live off the grid for more than two years, culminating in a fatal four-month solo journey to the Alaskan backcountry. The tragic nature of his death might be too heavy a theme for younger kids, but teens --…\n\n## Why Age 16+?\nSex, Romance & Nudity\n\nJan and Rainey are briefly shown making love in their RV (nothing sensitive is s\n\nProducts & Purchases\n\nInternational Harvester bus; John Deere; Burger King.\n\nDrinking, Drugs & Smoking\n\nChris drinks with Wayne and his friends at a local bar in a couple of scenes; Ja\n\nLanguage\n\nStrong, but not incessant. Words include \"f--k,\" \"a--hole,\" \"s--t,\" etc.\n\nViolence & Scariness\n\nChris is badly beaten by a railroad cop. There are disturbing images of Chris' e\n\n## Any Positive Content?\nPositive Role Models\n\nChris McCandless is selfish and inconsiderate, he left home without telling his\n\nPositive Messages  Not present\n\nIt's highly debatable whether some of Chris' actions were inconsiderate and self\n\n- ### Parents Need to Know\n  Parents need to know that this long (140 minutes) drama is based on the true story of a college graduate who decided to live off the grid for more than two years, culminating in a fatal four-month solo journey to the Alaskan backcountry. The tragic nature of his death might be too heavy a theme for younger kids, but teens -- some of whom may read the best-seller on which the film is based in school -- could be drawn to the story of a young man who seeks beauty and truth. There's some language (including \"f--k\") and social drinking, some bare breasts, a non-sexual glimpse of star Emile Hirsch's penis as he floats naked in a river, and another fleeting shot of a couple making love (no sensitive body parts shown).\n  \n  To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly [Family Movie Night emails](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/newsletters) .\n- ### Sex, Romance & Nudity\n  a lot\n  \n  Jan and Rainey are briefly shown making love in their RV (nothing sensitive is shown); a 16-year-old takes off her jeans and propositions Chris, but he declines. One non-sexual glimpse of a completely nude Chris floating on a river. A brief drive-through scene in a nudist camp; when Chris has lunch with a cheerful Danish couple, the woman goes bare-breasted for most of the scene.\n  \n  **Did you know you can flag iffy content?** Adjust limits for Sex, Romance & Nudity in your kid's entertainment guide.\n  \n  [Get started](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews)\n  \n  Close\n- ### Products & Purchases\n  some\n  \n  International Harvester bus; John Deere; Burger King.\n- ### Drinking, Drugs & Smoking\n  some\n  \n  Chris drinks with Wayne and his friends at a local bar in a couple of scenes; Jan appears to roll a joint.\n  \n  **Did you know you can flag iffy content?** Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide.\n  \n  [Get started](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews)\n  \n  Close\n- ### Language\n  some\n  \n  Strong, but not incessant. Words include \"f--k,\" \"a--hole,\" \"s--t,\" etc.\n  \n  **Did you know you can flag iffy content?** Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.\n  \n  [Get started](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews)\n  \n  Close\n- ### Violence & Scariness\n  some\n  \n  Chris is badly beaten by a railroad cop. There are disturbing images of Chris' emaciated body toward the end of the film. In one bloody sequence, Chris shoots and butchers a moose; in other scenes, he shoots and roasts smaller game. He carries a hunting rifle during many of the Alaska-set scenes.\n  \n  **Did you know you can flag iffy content?** Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.\n  \n  [Get started](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews)\n  \n  Close\n- ### Positive Role Models\n  very little\n  \n  Chris McCandless is selfish and inconsiderate, he left home without telling his parents and goes on no contact with everyone. The reason he left was to pursue the \"truth\" which put his relationships with his loved ones on the line.\n  \n  Ron Franz becomes a mentor to Chris. Ron cares for Chris and gives him valuable life lessons.\n- ### Positive Messages\n  none\n  \n  It's highly debatable whether some of Chris' actions were inconsiderate and selfish or justified. Either way, he chose to abandon his family and the prospect of a conventional life for one more attuned with nature and \"truth.\"\n## Where to Watch\n\n## Videos and Photos\n- ![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/video-thumbnails\/wild-2-flv-thumb5.jpg)\n  \n  Into the Wild  \n  *Movie Review*\n  \n  1:44\n- ![Into the Wild Trailer](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/externals\/86d11a89920506017449adc07b07cf4e.jpg)\n  \n  Into the Wild\n- ![Into the Wild: Emile Hirsch](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/screenshots\/csm-movie\/87tmtu1nsr5eugtksf5rhlwztzc.jpg)\n- ![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/video-thumbnails\/wild-2-flv-thumb5.jpg)\n  \n  Into the Wild  \n  *Movie Review*\n  \n  1:44\n- ![Into the Wild Trailer](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/externals\/86d11a89920506017449adc07b07cf4e.jpg)\n  \n  Into the Wild\n- ![Into the Wild: Emile Hirsch](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/screenshots\/csm-movie\/87tmtu1nsr5eugtksf5rhlwztzc.jpg)\n- ![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/video-thumbnails\/wild-2-flv-thumb5.jpg)\n  \n  Into the Wild  \n  *Movie Review*\n  \n  1:44\n- ![Into the Wild Trailer](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/externals\/86d11a89920506017449adc07b07cf4e.jpg)\n  \n  Into the Wild\n- ![Into the Wild: Emile Hirsch](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_16_9_small.png)\n### Into the Wild\n\n## Parent and Kid Reviews\n[See all](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/into-the-wild\/user-reviews\/adult)\n\n- [Parents Say (5)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/into-the-wild#tab-ec3b0b8a-0a69-4112-a81b-9c8dd13081630)\n- [Kids Say (9)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/into-the-wild#tab-ec3b0b8a-0a69-4112-a81b-9c8dd13081631)\n\nage 16+\n\nBased on 5 parent reviews\n\n![]()\n\n###\n\n![]()\n\n###\n\n[See all 5 parent reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/into-the-wild\/user-reviews\/adult)\n\nage 14+\n\nBased on 9 kid reviews\n\n![]()\n\n###\n\n![]()\n\n###\n\n[See all 9 kid reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/into-the-wild\/user-reviews\/child)\n\n## What's the Story?\nBased on [Jon Krakauer](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Jon%20Krakauer \"Jon Krakauer\")'s nonfiction best-seller [*Into the Wild*](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/book-reviews\/into-the-wild), [Sean Penn's](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Sean%20Penn%27s \"Sean Penn's\") adaptation martyrs Christopher McCandless ([Emile Hirsch](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Emile%20Hirsch \"Emile Hirsch\")) as an intelligent, idealistic, 24-year-old college graduate who gives his trust fund to Oxfam, burns the remainder of his cash, and takes off on an extended journey into the wilderness. Chris makes a life-changing impression on everyone he meets, including two hippies ([Catherine Keener](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Catherine%20Keener \"Catherine Keener\"), Brian Dierker); a grain elevator foreman ([Vince Vaughn](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Vince%20Vaughn \"Vince Vaughn\")); a 16-year-old folk singer ([Kristen Stewart](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Kristen%20Stewart \"Kristen Stewart\")); and, most touchingly, a lonely elderly man (Hal Holbrook). Despite the seemingly deep human connections he fosters throughout his tramping days, Chris is single-mindedly focused on one goal: getting to Alaska and living off the land for a few months all by himself. In fact, he arrives there early in the film, camping out in a \"magic\" bus that had been parked long ago as a crude base camp; flashbacks fill in the two years leading up to that point. The back-and-forth between Chris' days in Alaska and his time as Alexander the hitchhiker is effective, poignantly reminding the viewer of the kind of big-hearted man he could have resumed being had he been able to walk back out of the wilderness.\n\nShow more\n\n## Is It Any Good?\n**Our review:**\n\n**Parents say** (  [5 Parent Reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/into-the-wild\/user-reviews\/adult)  ):\n\n**Kids say** (  [9 Kid Reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/into-the-wild\/user-reviews\/child)  ):\n\nWhether or not you agree with the accuracy of the portrayal, it's fascinating -- beautiful, even -- to see a young man embark on his own hero's journey. Every performance in Penn's film is noteworthy. Hirsch, who's in practically every scene of the two-and-a-half-hour film, gives a startling, career-high performance--he fully embodies Chris. The excellent [soundtrack](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/music-reviews\/into-the-wild-soundtrack) features several songs by Eddie Vedder. But one of the most impressive triumphs of the movie is its gorgeous cinematography. The \"simple beauty\" Chris so cherishes in nature is perfectly captured. Even in his final moments (at least in the film), Chris -- now starved and emaciated -- has nature's beauty to comfort him. If only he could have told his story himself.\n\nIn real life, the cult of Christopher McCandless has little meaning to critics (mostly Alaskan) who believe that the idealistic 24-year-old wanderer basically committed suicide. Those who don't consider McCandless praiseworthy probably won't enjoy this film adaptation.\n\nShow more\n\n## Talk to Your Kids About ...\n- Families can talk about whether knowing Chris' fate ahead of time affects the impact of the movie. If so, how? If not, why? Are movies based on real lives\/true stories more interesting than those that are pure fiction? Families can also discuss how you feel about Chris after watching the movie. What honorable\/admirable things did he accomplish? How did he impact the people he came to know on the road? On the other hand, did he treat his parents and sister fairly? Should he have contacted his family?\n\nShow more\n\n## Movie Details\n- **In theaters** :  September 21, 2007\n- **On DVD or streaming** :  March 3, 2008\n- **Cast** :  [Emile Hirsch](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Emile%20Hirsch) ,  [Marcia Gay Harden](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Marcia%20Gay%20Harden) ,  [William Hurt](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/William%20Hurt)\n- **Director** :  [Sean Penn](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Sean%20Penn)\n- **Inclusion Information** :  Female Movie Actor(s)\n- **Studio** :  [Paramount Vantage](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/category\/movie\/studio\/paramount-vantage-29177)\n- **Genre** :  [Drama](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/category\/movie\/genre\/drama-73)\n- **Run time** :  153 minutes\n- **MPAA rating** :  R\n- **MPAA explanation** :  language and some nudity.\n- **Last updated** :  June 12, 2025\n\nShow more\n\n## Did we miss something on diversity?\nResearch shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new \"Diverse Representations\" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.\n\nInto the Wild\n\n### Suggest an Update\n\nYour privacy is important to us. We won't share this comment without your permission. If you chose to provide an email address, it will only be used to contact you about your comment. See our [privacy policy](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/about-us\/our-mission\/privacy-policy) .\n\n![Into the Wild Poster Image](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_2_3_small\/public\/product-images\/csm-movie\/7387-orig.jpg)\n\n## What to Watch Next\n![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_2_3_medium.png)\n\n###\n\n![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_2_3_medium.png)\n\n###\n\n![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_2_3_medium.png)\n\n###\n\n![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_2_3_medium.png)\n\n###\n\nCommon Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.\n\n[See how we rate](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/about-us\/our-mission\/about-our-ratings)\n\nCommon Sense Media is dedicated to improving the lives of kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive.\n\nWe're a nonprofit. [Support our work](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/donate)\n\n- [About](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/about-us\/our-mission)\n  - Column 1\n    - [Our Work and Impact](https:\/\/www.commonsense.org\/)\n    - [How We Work](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/about-us\/our-mission)\n    - [Meet Our Team](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/meet-our-team)\n    - [Board of Directors](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/meet-our-team\/our-board)\n    - [Board of Advisors](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/meet-our-team\/our-advisors)\n    - [Our Offices](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/offices)\n    - [Press Room](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/press-room)\n    - [Annual Report](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/common-sense-annual-report)\n    - [Contact Us](https:\/\/commonsense.my.site.com\/membersupport\/s\/)\n- [Learn More](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/about-us\/our-mission)\n  - Column 1\n    - [Common Sense Media](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/)\n    - [Common Sense Education](https:\/\/www.commonsense.org\/education)\n    - [Digital Citizenship Program](https:\/\/www.commonsense.org\/education\/digital-citizenship)\n    - [Family Engagement Program](https:\/\/www.commonsense.org\/face)\n    - [Privacy Program](https:\/\/privacy.commonsense.org\/)\n    - [Research Program](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/research)\n    - [Advocacy Program](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/what-we-stand-for\/tech-accountability)\n- [Get Involved](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/about-us\/our-mission)\n  - Column 1\n    - [Donate](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/donate)\n    - [Join as a Parent](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/plus)\n    - [Join as an Educator](https:\/\/www.commonsense.org\/user\/register)\n    - [Join as an Advocate](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/newsletters)\n    - [Get Our Newsletters](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/newsletters)\n    - [Request a Speaker](https:\/\/commonsense.my.site.com\/membersupport\/s\/contactsupport)\n    - [Partner With Us](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/about-us\/partner-with-us)\n    - [Events](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/events-at-common-sense)\n    - [We're Hiring](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/about-us\/were-hiring)\n\n### Follow Common Sense Media\n- [Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/commonsensemedia)\n- [Twitter](https:\/\/www.twitter.com\/commonsense)\n- [Instagram](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/commonsenseorg)\n- [YouTube](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/CommonSenseMedia\/featured)\n- [LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/common-sense-media)\n\nSearch Common Sense Media\n\nSubscribe to our newsletters\n\nI'm in\n\n[Contact us](https:\/\/commonsense.my.site.com\/membersupport\/s\/contactsupport) *\/* [Privacy](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/about-us\/our-mission\/privacy-policy) *\/*\n\nCookie settings\n\n*\/* [Terms of use](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/about-us\/our-mission\/site-terms-use) *\/* [Community guidelines](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/about-us\/our-mission\/community-guidelines)\n\n© Common Sense Media. 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Common Sense and other associated names and logos are trademarks of Common Sense Media, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (FEIN: 41-2024986).\n\n#### [Sign in](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/user\/login)\n#### [Join us](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/join)\n\nLanguage:\n\nEnglish\n\nEnglish\n\n[Español](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/es\/resenas-movie\/camino-salvaje)\n\n#### Movies\n- [Movie Reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews)\n- [Best Movie Lists](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-lists)\n- [Common Sense Selections for Movies](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/category\/movie\/tag\/common-sense-selections-31822\/sort\/date-desc)\n\n- [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_16_9_xsmall.png)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/lists\/50-modern-movies-all-kids-should-watch-before-theyre-12)\n  \n  ### [50 Modern Movies All Kids Should Watch 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[![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_16_9_xsmall.png)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/best-of-lists\/best-kids-tv-shows-on-disney-plus)\n  \n  ### [Best Kids' Shows on Disney+](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/best-of-lists\/best-kids-tv-shows-on-disney-plus)\n\n- [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_16_9_xsmall.png)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/best-of-lists\/best-kids-tv-shows-on-netflix)\n  \n  ### [Best Kids' TV Shows on Netflix](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/best-of-lists\/best-kids-tv-shows-on-netflix)\n\n#### Books\n- [Book Reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/book-reviews)\n- [Best Book Lists](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/book-lists)\n- [Common Sense Selections for 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[Minecraft](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-minecraft)\n- [Roblox](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-roblox-2024)\n- [All Game Reviews](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/game-reviews)\n\n#### Social Media\n- [Social Media](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-social-media)\n- [Snapchat](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-snapchat)\n- [Instagram](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-instagram)\n- [TikTok](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-tiktok)\n\n#### Parents' Guides\n#### By Age & Stage\n- [Preschoolers (2-4)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-your-2-to-4-year-olds-digital-world)\n- [Little Kids (5-7)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-your-5-to-7-year-olds-digital-world)\n- [Big Kids (7-9)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-your-7-to-9-year-olds-digital-world)\n- [Tweens (10-12)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-your-10-to-12-year-olds-digital-world)\n- [Teens (13-15)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-your-13-to-15-year-olds-digital-world)\n\n#### By Topic\n- [Digital Parenting Anxiety](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-managing-digital-parenting-anxiety)\n- [First Phones](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-first-phones-2024)\n- [Social Media](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-social-media-2024)\n- [Parental Controls](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-parental-controls)\n- [AI Companions](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/parents-ultimate-guide-to-ai-companions-and-relationships)\n- 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[![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_16_9_xsmall.png)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/carpool-conversations)\n  \n  ### [Carpool Conversations](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/carpool-conversations)\n\n- [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_16_9_xsmall.png)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/two-truths-and-ai)\n  \n  ### [Two Truths & AI](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/two-truths-and-ai)\n\n#### Celebrating Community\n- [Latino Culture](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/celebrate-latino-culture)\n- [Black Voices](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/celebrate-black-voices)\n- [Asian Stories](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/celebrate-asian-stories)\n- [Native Narratives](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/celebrate-native-narratives)\n- [LGBTQ+ Pride](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/celebrate-lgbtq-pride)\n- [Jewish Experiences](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/exploring-the-jewish-experience)\n- [Best of Diverse Representation List](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/best-for-diversity-for-kids)\n\n- [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_16_9_xsmall.png)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/lists\/multicultural-books)\n  \n  ### [Multicultural Books](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/lists\/multicultural-books)\n\n- [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_16_9_xsmall.png)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/youtube-kids-channels-with-diverse-representations)\n  \n  ### [YouTube Channels with Diverse Representations](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/articles\/youtube-kids-channels-with-diverse-representations)\n\n- [![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/themes\/custom\/common_sense\/components\/commonkit\/atoms\/ck-image\/images\/ratio_16_9_xsmall.png)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/lists\/podcasts-with-diverse-characters-and-stories)\n  \n  ### [Podcasts with Diverse Characters and Stories](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/lists\/podcasts-with-diverse-characters-and-stories)\n#### [Donate](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/donate)\n###","attrs_readable_markdown":"### Common Sense Media Review\nage 16+\n\nPowerful, tragic true story is too heavy for kids.\n\nParents Need to Know\n\nWhy Age 16+?\n\nAny Positive Content?\n\n## Videos and Photos\n- ![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/video-thumbnails\/wild-2-flv-thumb5.jpg)\n  \n  1:44\n- ![Into the Wild Trailer](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/externals\/86d11a89920506017449adc07b07cf4e.jpg)\n- ![Into the Wild: Emile Hirsch](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/screenshots\/csm-movie\/87tmtu1nsr5eugtksf5rhlwztzc.jpg)\n- ![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/video-thumbnails\/wild-2-flv-thumb5.jpg)\n  \n  1:44\n- ![Into the Wild Trailer](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/externals\/86d11a89920506017449adc07b07cf4e.jpg)\n- ![Into the Wild: Emile Hirsch](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/screenshots\/csm-movie\/87tmtu1nsr5eugtksf5rhlwztzc.jpg)\n- ![](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/video-thumbnails\/wild-2-flv-thumb5.jpg)\n  \n  1:44\n- ![Into the Wild Trailer](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/externals\/86d11a89920506017449adc07b07cf4e.jpg)\n- ![Into the Wild: Emile Hirsch](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/ratio_16_9_small\/public\/screenshots\/csm-movie\/87tmtu1nsr5eugtksf5rhlwztzc.jpg)\n\n- [(5)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/into-the-wild#tab-ec3b0b8a-0a69-4112-a81b-9c8dd13081630)\n- [(9)](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/movie-reviews\/into-the-wild#tab-ec3b0b8a-0a69-4112-a81b-9c8dd13081631)\n\nage 16+\n\nBased on 5 parent reviews\n\n![]()\n\n![]()\n\nage 14+\n\nBased on 9 kid reviews\n\n![]()\n\n![]()\n\n## What's the Story?\nBased on [Jon Krakauer](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Jon%20Krakauer \"Jon Krakauer\")'s nonfiction best-seller [*Into the Wild*](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/book-reviews\/into-the-wild), [Sean Penn's](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Sean%20Penn%27s \"Sean Penn's\") adaptation martyrs Christopher McCandless ([Emile Hirsch](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Emile%20Hirsch \"Emile Hirsch\")) as an intelligent, idealistic, 24-year-old college graduate who gives his trust fund to Oxfam, burns the remainder of his cash, and takes off on an extended journey into the wilderness. Chris makes a life-changing impression on everyone he meets, including two hippies ([Catherine Keener](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Catherine%20Keener \"Catherine Keener\"), Brian Dierker); a grain elevator foreman ([Vince Vaughn](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Vince%20Vaughn \"Vince Vaughn\")); a 16-year-old folk singer ([Kristen Stewart](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Kristen%20Stewart \"Kristen Stewart\")); and, most touchingly, a lonely elderly man (Hal Holbrook). Despite the seemingly deep human connections he fosters throughout his tramping days, Chris is single-mindedly focused on one goal: getting to Alaska and living off the land for a few months all by himself. In fact, he arrives there early in the film, camping out in a \"magic\" bus that had been parked long ago as a crude base camp; flashbacks fill in the two years leading up to that point. The back-and-forth between Chris' days in Alaska and his time as Alexander the hitchhiker is effective, poignantly reminding the viewer of the kind of big-hearted man he could have resumed being had he been able to walk back out of the wilderness.\n\n## Is It Any Good?\n**Our review:**\n\nWhether or not you agree with the accuracy of the portrayal, it's fascinating -- beautiful, even -- to see a young man embark on his own hero's journey. Every performance in Penn's film is noteworthy. Hirsch, who's in practically every scene of the two-and-a-half-hour film, gives a startling, career-high performance--he fully embodies Chris. The excellent [soundtrack](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/music-reviews\/into-the-wild-soundtrack) features several songs by Eddie Vedder. But one of the most impressive triumphs of the movie is its gorgeous cinematography. The \"simple beauty\" Chris so cherishes in nature is perfectly captured. Even in his final moments (at least in the film), Chris -- now starved and emaciated -- has nature's beauty to comfort him. If only he could have told his story himself.\n\nIn real life, the cult of Christopher McCandless has little meaning to critics (mostly Alaskan) who believe that the idealistic 24-year-old wanderer basically committed suicide. Those who don't consider McCandless praiseworthy probably won't enjoy this film adaptation.\n\n## Talk to Your Kids About ...\n- Families can talk about whether knowing Chris' fate ahead of time affects the impact of the movie. If so, how? If not, why? Are movies based on real lives\/true stories more interesting than those that are pure fiction? Families can also discuss how you feel about Chris after watching the movie. What honorable\/admirable things did he accomplish? How did he impact the people he came to know on the road? On the other hand, did he treat his parents and sister fairly? Should he have contacted his family?\n\n## Movie Details\n- **In theaters** :  September 21, 2007\n- **On DVD or streaming** :  March 3, 2008\n- **Cast** :  [Emile Hirsch](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Emile%20Hirsch) ,  [Marcia Gay Harden](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Marcia%20Gay%20Harden) ,  [William Hurt](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/William%20Hurt)\n- **Director** :  [Sean Penn](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/Sean%20Penn)\n- **Inclusion Information** :  Female Movie Actor(s)\n- **Studio** :  [Paramount Vantage](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/category\/movie\/studio\/paramount-vantage-29177)\n- **Genre** :  [Drama](https:\/\/www.commonsensemedia.org\/search\/category\/movie\/genre\/drama-73)\n- **Run time** :  153 minutes\n- **MPAA rating** :  R\n- **MPAA explanation** :  language and some nudity.\n- **Last updated** :  June 12, 2025\n\n## Did we miss something on diversity?\nResearch shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new \"Diverse Representations\" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	Common Sense Media Review age 16+ Powerful, tragic true story is too heavy for kids. Parents Need to Know Why Age 16+? Any Positive Content? Videos and Photos 1:44 1:44 1:44 (5) (9) age 16+ Based on 5 parent reviews age 14+ Based on 9 kid reviews What's the Story? Based on Jon Krakauer 's nonfiction best-seller Into the Wild , Sean Penn's adaptation martyrs Christopher McCandless ( Emile Hirsch ) as an intelligent, idealistic, 24-year-old college graduate who gives his trust fund to Oxfam, burns the remainder of his cash, and takes off on an extended journey into the wilderness. Chris makes a life-changing impression on everyone he meets, including two hippies ( Catherine Keener , Brian Dierker); a grain elevator foreman ( Vince Vaughn ); a 16-year-old folk singer ( Kristen Stewart ); and, most touchingly, a lonely elderly man (Hal Holbrook). Despite the seemingly deep human connections he fosters throughout his tramping days, Chris is single-mindedly focused on one goal: getting to Alaska and living off the land for a few months all by himself. In fact, he arrives there early in the film, camping out in a "magic" bus that had been parked long ago as a crude base camp; flashbacks fill in the two years leading up to that point. The back-and-forth between Chris' days in Alaska and his time as Alexander the hitchhiker is effective, poignantly reminding the viewer of the kind of big-hearted man he could have resumed being had he been able to walk back out of the wilderness. Is It Any Good? Our review: Whether or not you agree with the accuracy of the portrayal, it's fascinating -- beautiful, even -- to see a young man embark on his own hero's journey. Every performance in Penn's film is noteworthy. Hirsch, who's in practically every scene of the two-and-a-half-hour film, gives a startling, career-high performance--he fully embodies Chris. The excellent soundtrack features several songs by Eddie Vedder. But one of the most impressive triumphs of the movie is its gorgeous cinematography. The "simple beauty" Chris so cherishes in nature is perfectly captured. Even in his final moments (at least in the film), Chris -- now starved and emaciated -- has nature's beauty to comfort him. If only he could have told his story himself. In real life, the cult of Christopher McCandless has little meaning to critics (mostly Alaskan) who believe that the idealistic 24-year-old wanderer basically committed suicide. Those who don't consider McCandless praiseworthy probably won't enjoy this film adaptation. Talk to Your Kids About ... Families can talk about whether knowing Chris' fate ahead of time affects the impact of the movie. If so, how? If not, why? Are movies based on real lives/true stories more interesting than those that are pure fiction? Families can also discuss how you feel about Chris after watching the movie. What honorable/admirable things did he accomplish? How did he impact the people he came to know on the road? On the other hand, did he treat his parents and sister fairly? Should he have contacted his family? Movie Details In theaters : September 21, 2007 On DVD or streaming : March 3, 2008 Cast : Emile Hirsch , Marcia Gay Harden , William Hurt Director : Sean Penn Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) Studio : Paramount Vantage Genre : Drama Run time : 153 minutes MPAA rating : R MPAA explanation : language and some nudity. Last updated : June 12, 2025 Did we miss something on diversity? Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
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FACE English Column 4 - [![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_xsmall/public/menu-addons/mega-menu_podcasts-with-diverse-characters-and-stories.jpg)](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/lists/podcasts-with-diverse-characters-and-stories) ### [Podcasts with Diverse Characters and Stories](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/lists/podcasts-with-diverse-characters-and-stories) - [Donate](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/donate) # Parents' Guide to Into the Wild Movie R 2007 153 minutes Save ![Into the Wild Poster Image](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_2_3_small.png) - [Common Sense Says](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/into-the-wild#tab-ea757af1-e2eb-42ac-9039-ecd0468e7beb0) - [Parents Say 5 Reviews](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/into-the-wild#tab-ea757af1-e2eb-42ac-9039-ecd0468e7beb1) - [Kids Say 9 Reviews](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/into-the-wild#tab-ea757af1-e2eb-42ac-9039-ecd0468e7beb2) ### Common Sense Media Review ![Sandie Angulo Chen](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_1_1_xsmall/public/user-pictures/299677-1592017240.jpg) By [Sandie Angulo Chen](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/bio/sandie-angulo-chen) , based on child development research. [How do we rate?](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/about-us/our-mission/about-our-ratings) age 16+ Powerful, tragic true story is too heavy for kids. ## Parents Need to Know Parents need to know that this long (140 minutes) drama is based on the true story of a college graduate who decided to live off the grid for more than two years, culminating in a fatal four-month solo journey to the Alaskan backcountry. The tragic nature of his death might be too heavy a theme for younger kids, but teens --… ## Why Age 16+? Sex, Romance & Nudity Jan and Rainey are briefly shown making love in their RV (nothing sensitive is s Products & Purchases International Harvester bus; John Deere; Burger King. Drinking, Drugs & Smoking Chris drinks with Wayne and his friends at a local bar in a couple of scenes; Ja Language Strong, but not incessant. Words include "f--k," "a--hole," "s--t," etc. Violence & Scariness Chris is badly beaten by a railroad cop. There are disturbing images of Chris' e ## Any Positive Content? Positive Role Models Chris McCandless is selfish and inconsiderate, he left home without telling his Positive Messages Not present It's highly debatable whether some of Chris' actions were inconsiderate and self - ### Parents Need to Know Parents need to know that this long (140 minutes) drama is based on the true story of a college graduate who decided to live off the grid for more than two years, culminating in a fatal four-month solo journey to the Alaskan backcountry. The tragic nature of his death might be too heavy a theme for younger kids, but teens -- some of whom may read the best-seller on which the film is based in school -- could be drawn to the story of a young man who seeks beauty and truth. There's some language (including "f--k") and social drinking, some bare breasts, a non-sexual glimpse of star Emile Hirsch's penis as he floats naked in a river, and another fleeting shot of a couple making love (no sensitive body parts shown). To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly [Family Movie Night emails](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/newsletters) . - ### Sex, Romance & Nudity a lot Jan and Rainey are briefly shown making love in their RV (nothing sensitive is shown); a 16-year-old takes off her jeans and propositions Chris, but he declines. One non-sexual glimpse of a completely nude Chris floating on a river. A brief drive-through scene in a nudist camp; when Chris has lunch with a cheerful Danish couple, the woman goes bare-breasted for most of the scene. Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Sex, Romance & Nudity in your kid's entertainment guide. [Get started](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews) Close - ### Products & Purchases some International Harvester bus; John Deere; Burger King. - ### Drinking, Drugs & Smoking some Chris drinks with Wayne and his friends at a local bar in a couple of scenes; Jan appears to roll a joint. Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide. [Get started](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews) Close - ### Language some Strong, but not incessant. Words include "f--k," "a--hole," "s--t," etc. Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide. [Get started](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews) Close - ### Violence & Scariness some Chris is badly beaten by a railroad cop. There are disturbing images of Chris' emaciated body toward the end of the film. In one bloody sequence, Chris shoots and butchers a moose; in other scenes, he shoots and roasts smaller game. He carries a hunting rifle during many of the Alaska-set scenes. Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide. [Get started](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews) Close - ### Positive Role Models very little Chris McCandless is selfish and inconsiderate, he left home without telling his parents and goes on no contact with everyone. The reason he left was to pursue the "truth" which put his relationships with his loved ones on the line. Ron Franz becomes a mentor to Chris. Ron cares for Chris and gives him valuable life lessons. - ### Positive Messages none It's highly debatable whether some of Chris' actions were inconsiderate and selfish or justified. Either way, he chose to abandon his family and the prospect of a conventional life for one more attuned with nature and "truth." ## Where to Watch ## Videos and Photos - ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/video-thumbnails/wild-2-flv-thumb5.jpg) Into the Wild Movie Review 1:44 - ![Into the Wild Trailer](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/externals/86d11a89920506017449adc07b07cf4e.jpg) Into the Wild - ![Into the Wild: Emile Hirsch](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/screenshots/csm-movie/87tmtu1nsr5eugtksf5rhlwztzc.jpg) - ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/video-thumbnails/wild-2-flv-thumb5.jpg) Into the Wild Movie Review 1:44 - ![Into the Wild Trailer](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/externals/86d11a89920506017449adc07b07cf4e.jpg) Into the Wild - ![Into the Wild: Emile Hirsch](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/screenshots/csm-movie/87tmtu1nsr5eugtksf5rhlwztzc.jpg) - ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/video-thumbnails/wild-2-flv-thumb5.jpg) Into the Wild Movie Review 1:44 - ![Into the Wild Trailer](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/externals/86d11a89920506017449adc07b07cf4e.jpg) Into the Wild - ![Into the Wild: Emile Hirsch](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_16_9_small.png) ### Into the Wild ## Parent and Kid Reviews [See all](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/into-the-wild/user-reviews/adult) - [Parents Say (5)](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/into-the-wild#tab-ec3b0b8a-0a69-4112-a81b-9c8dd13081630) - [Kids Say (9)](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/into-the-wild#tab-ec3b0b8a-0a69-4112-a81b-9c8dd13081631) age 16+ Based on 5 parent reviews ![]() ### ![]() ### [See all 5 parent reviews](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/into-the-wild/user-reviews/adult) age 14+ Based on 9 kid reviews ![]() ### ![]() ### [See all 9 kid reviews](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/into-the-wild/user-reviews/child) ## What's the Story? Based on [Jon Krakauer](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Jon%20Krakauer "Jon Krakauer")'s nonfiction best-seller [Into the Wild](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/book-reviews/into-the-wild), [Sean Penn's](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Sean%20Penn%27s "Sean Penn's") adaptation martyrs Christopher McCandless ([Emile Hirsch](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Emile%20Hirsch "Emile Hirsch")) as an intelligent, idealistic, 24-year-old college graduate who gives his trust fund to Oxfam, burns the remainder of his cash, and takes off on an extended journey into the wilderness. Chris makes a life-changing impression on everyone he meets, including two hippies ([Catherine Keener](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Catherine%20Keener "Catherine Keener"), Brian Dierker); a grain elevator foreman ([Vince Vaughn](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Vince%20Vaughn "Vince Vaughn")); a 16-year-old folk singer ([Kristen Stewart](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Kristen%20Stewart "Kristen Stewart")); and, most touchingly, a lonely elderly man (Hal Holbrook). Despite the seemingly deep human connections he fosters throughout his tramping days, Chris is single-mindedly focused on one goal: getting to Alaska and living off the land for a few months all by himself. In fact, he arrives there early in the film, camping out in a "magic" bus that had been parked long ago as a crude base camp; flashbacks fill in the two years leading up to that point. The back-and-forth between Chris' days in Alaska and his time as Alexander the hitchhiker is effective, poignantly reminding the viewer of the kind of big-hearted man he could have resumed being had he been able to walk back out of the wilderness. Show more ## Is It Any Good? Our review: Parents say ( [5 Parent Reviews](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/into-the-wild/user-reviews/adult) ): Kids say ( [9 Kid Reviews](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/into-the-wild/user-reviews/child) ): Whether or not you agree with the accuracy of the portrayal, it's fascinating -- beautiful, even -- to see a young man embark on his own hero's journey. Every performance in Penn's film is noteworthy. Hirsch, who's in practically every scene of the two-and-a-half-hour film, gives a startling, career-high performance--he fully embodies Chris. The excellent [soundtrack](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/music-reviews/into-the-wild-soundtrack) features several songs by Eddie Vedder. But one of the most impressive triumphs of the movie is its gorgeous cinematography. The "simple beauty" Chris so cherishes in nature is perfectly captured. Even in his final moments (at least in the film), Chris -- now starved and emaciated -- has nature's beauty to comfort him. If only he could have told his story himself. In real life, the cult of Christopher McCandless has little meaning to critics (mostly Alaskan) who believe that the idealistic 24-year-old wanderer basically committed suicide. Those who don't consider McCandless praiseworthy probably won't enjoy this film adaptation. Show more ## Talk to Your Kids About ... - Families can talk about whether knowing Chris' fate ahead of time affects the impact of the movie. If so, how? If not, why? Are movies based on real lives/true stories more interesting than those that are pure fiction? Families can also discuss how you feel about Chris after watching the movie. What honorable/admirable things did he accomplish? How did he impact the people he came to know on the road? On the other hand, did he treat his parents and sister fairly? Should he have contacted his family? Show more ## Movie Details - In theaters : September 21, 2007 - On DVD or streaming : March 3, 2008 - Cast : [Emile Hirsch](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Emile%20Hirsch) , [Marcia Gay Harden](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Marcia%20Gay%20Harden) , [William Hurt](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/William%20Hurt) - Director : [Sean Penn](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Sean%20Penn) - Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) - Studio : [Paramount Vantage](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/category/movie/studio/paramount-vantage-29177) - Genre : [Drama](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/category/movie/genre/drama-73) - Run time : 153 minutes - MPAA rating : R - MPAA explanation : language and some nudity. - Last updated : June 12, 2025 Show more ## Did we miss something on diversity? Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update. Into the Wild ### Suggest an Update Your privacy is important to us. We won't share this comment without your permission. If you chose to provide an email address, it will only be used to contact you about your comment. See our [privacy policy](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/about-us/our-mission/privacy-policy) . ![Into the Wild Poster Image](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_2_3_small/public/product-images/csm-movie/7387-orig.jpg) ## What to Watch Next ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_2_3_medium.png) ### ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_2_3_medium.png) ### ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_2_3_medium.png) ### ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/themes/custom/common_sense/components/commonkit/atoms/ck-image/images/ratio_2_3_medium.png) ### Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners. 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Readable Markdown	### Common Sense Media Review age 16+ Powerful, tragic true story is too heavy for kids. Parents Need to Know Why Age 16+? Any Positive Content? ## Videos and Photos - ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/video-thumbnails/wild-2-flv-thumb5.jpg) 1:44 - ![Into the Wild Trailer](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/externals/86d11a89920506017449adc07b07cf4e.jpg) - ![Into the Wild: Emile Hirsch](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/screenshots/csm-movie/87tmtu1nsr5eugtksf5rhlwztzc.jpg) - ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/video-thumbnails/wild-2-flv-thumb5.jpg) 1:44 - ![Into the Wild Trailer](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/externals/86d11a89920506017449adc07b07cf4e.jpg) - ![Into the Wild: Emile Hirsch](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/screenshots/csm-movie/87tmtu1nsr5eugtksf5rhlwztzc.jpg) - ![](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/video-thumbnails/wild-2-flv-thumb5.jpg) 1:44 - ![Into the Wild Trailer](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/externals/86d11a89920506017449adc07b07cf4e.jpg) - ![Into the Wild: Emile Hirsch](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_16_9_small/public/screenshots/csm-movie/87tmtu1nsr5eugtksf5rhlwztzc.jpg) - [(5)](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/into-the-wild#tab-ec3b0b8a-0a69-4112-a81b-9c8dd13081630) - [(9)](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/into-the-wild#tab-ec3b0b8a-0a69-4112-a81b-9c8dd13081631) age 16+ Based on 5 parent reviews ![]() ![]() age 14+ Based on 9 kid reviews ![]() ![]() ## What's the Story? Based on [Jon Krakauer](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Jon%20Krakauer "Jon Krakauer")'s nonfiction best-seller [Into the Wild](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/book-reviews/into-the-wild), [Sean Penn's](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Sean%20Penn%27s "Sean Penn's") adaptation martyrs Christopher McCandless ([Emile Hirsch](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Emile%20Hirsch "Emile Hirsch")) as an intelligent, idealistic, 24-year-old college graduate who gives his trust fund to Oxfam, burns the remainder of his cash, and takes off on an extended journey into the wilderness. Chris makes a life-changing impression on everyone he meets, including two hippies ([Catherine Keener](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Catherine%20Keener "Catherine Keener"), Brian Dierker); a grain elevator foreman ([Vince Vaughn](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Vince%20Vaughn "Vince Vaughn")); a 16-year-old folk singer ([Kristen Stewart](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Kristen%20Stewart "Kristen Stewart")); and, most touchingly, a lonely elderly man (Hal Holbrook). Despite the seemingly deep human connections he fosters throughout his tramping days, Chris is single-mindedly focused on one goal: getting to Alaska and living off the land for a few months all by himself. In fact, he arrives there early in the film, camping out in a "magic" bus that had been parked long ago as a crude base camp; flashbacks fill in the two years leading up to that point. The back-and-forth between Chris' days in Alaska and his time as Alexander the hitchhiker is effective, poignantly reminding the viewer of the kind of big-hearted man he could have resumed being had he been able to walk back out of the wilderness. ## Is It Any Good? Our review: Whether or not you agree with the accuracy of the portrayal, it's fascinating -- beautiful, even -- to see a young man embark on his own hero's journey. Every performance in Penn's film is noteworthy. Hirsch, who's in practically every scene of the two-and-a-half-hour film, gives a startling, career-high performance--he fully embodies Chris. The excellent [soundtrack](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/music-reviews/into-the-wild-soundtrack) features several songs by Eddie Vedder. But one of the most impressive triumphs of the movie is its gorgeous cinematography. The "simple beauty" Chris so cherishes in nature is perfectly captured. Even in his final moments (at least in the film), Chris -- now starved and emaciated -- has nature's beauty to comfort him. If only he could have told his story himself. In real life, the cult of Christopher McCandless has little meaning to critics (mostly Alaskan) who believe that the idealistic 24-year-old wanderer basically committed suicide. Those who don't consider McCandless praiseworthy probably won't enjoy this film adaptation. ## Talk to Your Kids About ... - Families can talk about whether knowing Chris' fate ahead of time affects the impact of the movie. If so, how? If not, why? Are movies based on real lives/true stories more interesting than those that are pure fiction? Families can also discuss how you feel about Chris after watching the movie. What honorable/admirable things did he accomplish? How did he impact the people he came to know on the road? On the other hand, did he treat his parents and sister fairly? Should he have contacted his family? ## Movie Details - In theaters : September 21, 2007 - On DVD or streaming : March 3, 2008 - Cast : [Emile Hirsch](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Emile%20Hirsch) , [Marcia Gay Harden](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Marcia%20Gay%20Harden) , [William Hurt](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/William%20Hurt) - Director : [Sean Penn](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/Sean%20Penn) - Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) - Studio : [Paramount Vantage](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/category/movie/studio/paramount-vantage-29177) - Genre : [Drama](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/search/category/movie/genre/drama-73) - Run time : 153 minutes - MPAA rating : R - MPAA explanation : language and some nudity. - Last updated : June 12, 2025 ## Did we miss something on diversity? Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
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