It has been in theaters in some Italian cinemas since October 26th K2 – The Great Controversythe first cinematographic documentary directed by Reinhold Messner in collaboration with the Italian Alpine Club. The film retraces the historic Italian expedition to K2 in 1954, revealing tensions, controversies and personal events that were often hidden behind the official account of the undertaking. The opening screening was held at the Teatro Manzoni in Milan, with Messner himself present.
The documentary offers a detailed reconstruction of the events, combining archival images and film recreations. Messner places at the center the figure of Walter Bonatti, a young mountaineer of the expedition, who was accused of unfair accusations linked to the use of oxygen during the climb.
The documentary does not just tell the story of the mountaineering feat, but also explores human nature, honor and the search for truth in extreme situations. Messner underlines how the mountain must not only be faced physically, but also interpreted and reflected on: only those who have experienced it can tell it with authenticity. The historical images and direct testimonies make the film an intense work, capable of giving the public an unprecedented and necessary reading of the Italian expedition to K2.
An opportunity to reflect
The project was carried out in close collaboration with the CAI and Vivere la Montagna, allowing the use of original materials and exclusive testimonies. The national premiere also included a moment of debate and intervention by Messner, allowing spectators to delve deeper into the human and technical dynamics of the expedition. The theatrical distribution is handled by Mescalito Film, with continuously updated programming in the main Italian cities and which you can find at this link.
K2 – The Great Controversy invites the public to question the meaning of heroism, the complexity of relationships between companions and the impact of superficial narratives in the history of mountaineering. With this documentary, Messner offers not only a historical account, but also a profound reflection on truth, personal integrity and the value of memory in the transmission of heroic deeds to new generations.
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