Arrowhead

Climber Patrick Edlinger centers this portrait on his explorations of the American West’s premier climbing arenas, visiting Joshua Tree for routes and bouldering, Yosemite for bouldering, Hueco Tanks for bouldering, and Smith Rock for routes. The ascent sequences feature him climbing alongside renowned partners Russ Clune, Ron Kauk, Jean-Paul Lemercier, and Todd Skinner, set to a Native American-inspired score composed by Benoît Fromanger. Although it sits in the shadow of his earlier efforts La Vie au bout des doigts and Opéra Vertical, this film remains a touchstone for climbing enthusiasts and for admirers of Edlinger, widely regarded as the sport’s most famous figure. Across numerous segments, Edlinger’s familiar narration threads through, offering emblematic reflections such as: "Climbing, this useless thing to which I dedicate my life."