Every film comes with a BBFC certification. Outlining any issues regarding as bad language, dangerous behaviour, discrimination, drugs, horror, nudity, sex, violence and sexual violence. However, every now and again, it feels as though a film should come with an additional warning. Similar to that of a particularly immersive, scary theme park ride. One that is “not suitable for those of a nervous disposition”. Scott Mann’s Fall is one such film. When viewed on the big screen, this film is likely to produce effects of dizziness, nausea and even walkouts from those who suffer from acrophobia or vertigo.
For best friends Becky and Hunter, life is all about conquering fears and pushing limits. However, after they climb 2,000 feet to the top of a remote, abandoned radio tower, they find themselves stranded with no way down. Now, their expert climbing skills are put to the ultimate test as they desperately fight to survive the elements, a lack of supplies, and vertigo-inducing heights.
Initially, the film covers very similar ground to 2021’s The Ledge. Both centre around a woman who loses her partner in a climbing accident and then one year later, are convinced to scale a seemingly insurmountable challenge. Thankfully however, from that point the two plots diverge and Fall surpasses the other film to scale new heights.
The camera does an excellent job of putting the audience right in there with the two protagonists. Following their journey every step of the way during their ascension. The cinematography may have used the odd bit of CGI enhancement to achieve its goal and yet that doesn’t stop your brain from being tricked into thinking you really are thousands of feet off the ground. That feeling in the pit of your stomach as you peer over the edge is palpable.
Of course, fancy drones and terrific camerawork would count for nothing if the audience did not care for the two people trapped at the top of the tower.
Yes, the decision to climb a 2000 ft tall abandoned radio tower is undoubtedly an idiotic one. One fuelled by Harper’s vlogging adrenaline junkie mindset and Becky’s hesitant decision to emerge from her cocoon of grief. However once they are trapped at the top of the tower, every decision they make appears very logical, albeit risky as hell. Grace Fulton and Virginia Harper instil their characters with resilience and toughness. Successfully portraying smart, resourceful young women who it is impossible not to root for.
The stakes are continually raised, a real kick in the teeth given they are already 2000 ft high, as they must contend with losing their supplies, circling vultures and a secret that could drive an unscalable wedge between them.
The runtime extends slightly too long. Like a rope pulled too tight that threatens to snap. However the film manages to maintain the tension just long enough to reach its thrilling conclusion.
If you don’t have a fear of heights already, you certainly will after watching Fall. This is an intense thriller that needs to be experienced on the biggest screen possible.
Signature Entertainment presents Fall exclusively in Cinemas from 2nd September
Rating: 
Director: Scott Mann
Stars: Grace Fulton, Virginia Hunter, Jeffrey Dean Morgan
Runtime: 107 minutes
Country: USA
