Don’t Mess with the Mountains: Travel Literature Transforms into an Action-Packed Film

By / MOOK Scenic Spots Home Travel Life Network Editorial Department
 
[Don’t Mess with the Mountains] is adapted from the bestselling novel of the same name published in 1998. The book was not only written by “the funniest travel writer in the world,” Bill Bryson, but also draws on his real travel experiences. It describes how he and his old friend “Stephen Katz” decided to hike the entire 3,500-kilometer Appalachian Trail in the eastern United States, chronicling the amusing incidents that occurred along the way.
 

With his signature humorous and witty style, Bill Bryson wrote this laugh-out-loud hiking memoir, which also includes historical background on the Appalachian Trail, as well as scientific knowledge about the natural environment, flora, and fauna. He offers insights into the coexistence between humans and natural resources, prompting deep reflection amidst the humor—making it a classic in travel literature.

After eager anticipation from fans, this bestselling novel has finally been adapted into a movie. Directed by Ken Kwapis, who helmed [He’s Just Not That Into You], and produced and starring veteran actor and Sundance Film Festival founder Robert Redford, the film had its world premiere at the 2015 Sundance Film Festival to widespread acclaim. Nearly 80 years old and an Oscar winner, Robert Redford not only plays the lead role himself but also cast Golden Globe-winning actor Nick Nolte as his old friend “Katz” to tackle the mountain climb together. Oscar-winning actress Emma Thompson plays Robert Redford’s wife.

The film tells the story of travel writer Bill (played by Robert Redford), who has lived in England for twenty years and decides to move back to the United States. He believes the best way to reconnect with his homeland is to hike the famous Appalachian Trail. Accompanied by his old friend Katz (played by Nick Nolte), the two men, whose combined age exceeds 100, decide to embark on a over 3,000-kilometer trek on foot. But along the way, Katz keeps causing trouble for Bill, and they’re relentlessly pursued by quirky hikers. They’re even woken up by a lurking black bear while camping in the wild... Will this odd couple of buddies, Bill and Katz, manage to complete their surprise-filled mountain adventure? Let fans of the book and movie find out in theaters.