Into the Wild is definitely a story that must be witnessed by all. The wisdom of the world shines through Emile Hirsch's haunting portrayal of Christopher McCandless; this movie, above all, tells a highly profound story. I would not nearly consider myself the adventure-seeking type, but I was so very impressed by the absolutely beautiful natural shots throughout the film and the intertwinement of being one with nature and one with humanity. It is a seemingly long film, but what is amazing about it is that so much is conveyed with very little action... just deep reflection that will be forever embedded in my mind. This is a deeply touching film and I only have the highest respect for Sean Penn when it comes to his work -- his brilliance is evident once again in this film. What an cinematic endeavor, but truly a masterpiece.

Rarely have I been more moved by a film. The performances were brilliant, especially Mr. Hirsch, Ms. Keener and the endearing, heartbreaking Hal Holbrook. Tears began streaming quietly down my face near the film's end, and by the time the credits were rolling, I was near sobbing! I honestly don't think there was a dry eye on the entire theater. I cannot say enough about this wonderful, poweful, beautiful, evocative film. It truly transcends whatever you might be expecting as far as genre, or "a Sean Penn film," etc. It touches on something so basic, fundamental and universal. It left me speechless and trembling. Often difficult to watch, yet leaving me wanting more, this work of art will surely stay with me for a very long time.

Deeply moving..well acted and alive with all kinds of emotions both on the surface and beneath the surface. I could easily identify with that exhilerating feeling of being able to connect to nature and to life on a very basic level.

A great, simple, uncommon story. You may or may not agree with the decision that McCandless made to go into the wild, but I thnk the movie shows clearly where he was coming from, what led him to that place and, however unwise, it was still something as beautiful and spontaeous and impulsive as youth itself. The acting is STELLAR: Marcia Gay Hayden and William Hurt knock it off the charts in brief, often wordless scenes. Hal Holbrook, too. WOW. The cinematography takes you on the journey - gorgeous and inspiring. A whole movie experience, and a must-see on a big screen. Go see it wiht someone who loves the outdoors and the joy of ideas and beautiful words so you can talk about it afterwards.

Before they pull it go see 'Into the Wild'. I had to go see it a second time to see if I would get the same response (tears) and I did but in different parts. Hal Holbrook, Vince Vaughn and Catherine Keener are just a few of the standout supporting actors, but Emile Hirsch is the real hero in this heart-breaking tale based on a true story. Jon Krakauer wrote an analytic report based on interviews and Chris McCandless's actual journal. Perhaps it is the medium but, Sean Penn wrote and directed a much more humanistic account of this tragic odyssey. I walked out of the theatre feeling much of the pain and sorrow that his family must have felt; such is the magic of the medium.