‘Free Solo’ to be shown at library April 16

The Indiana University Center for Rural Engagement joins IU Cinema, Cicada Cinema, Washington County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, and Salem Public Library in presenting a film screening of “Free Solo.”

The film will be shown at the Salem Public Library Tuesday, April 16, 7-8:40 p.m. The event is free, but seating is limited. The movie is rated PG-13.

Indiana climbers will join the group for the screening to talk about the sport, the gear they use, and their experiences with free solo climbing.

“Free Solo” is a stunning, intimate, and unflinching portrait of free soloist climber Alex Honnold, as he prepares to climb the face of the world’s most famous rock — the 3,200-foot El Capitan in Yosemite National Park — without a rope. Celebrated as one of the greatest athletic feats of any kind, Honnold’s climb set the ultimate standard: perfection or death.

The film is an edge-of-your seat thriller and an inspiring portrait of an athlete who challenges both his body and his beliefs on a quest to triumph over the impossible, revealing the personal toll of excellence. The New York Times calls it “a miraculous opportunity for the rest of us to experience the human sublime.”

The film won the Academy Award for Best Feature Documentary.