Top 10 Thrilling Films About First Expeditions

Description: This film dramatizes the Apollo 13 lunar mission, which turned into a survival mission when an oxygen tank exploded, showcasing the first real test of space exploration's dangers.

Fact: The film was praised for its accuracy, with NASA providing technical support. Tom Hanks, Kevin Bacon, and Bill Paxton underwent rigorous astronaut training.

Description: A documentary that recounts the harrowing tale of two climbers' disastrous expedition in the Peruvian Andes, where survival became the ultimate goal.

Fact: The film uses dramatic reenactments combined with interviews to tell the story. The climbers, Joe Simpson and Simon Yates, were involved in the production.

Description: While not a traditional expedition, this film captures the spirit of exploration as Christopher McCandless embarks on a solo journey into the Alaskan wilderness.

Fact: The film was shot in many of the actual locations where McCandless traveled. Sean Penn, the director, also wrote the screenplay.

Description: Based on a true story, this film follows a group of prisoners escaping from a Siberian gulag, embarking on an epic journey across some of the world's most inhospitable terrain.

Fact: The film was shot in Bulgaria, Morocco, and India to replicate the diverse landscapes of the escape route. Colin Farrell lost significant weight for his role to portray the physical toll of the journey.

Description: Follow the true story of British explorer Percy Fawcett's quest to find a lost ancient city in the Amazon, an expedition that became legendary.

Fact: The film was shot in Colombia, which provided a realistic backdrop for the Amazon jungle. Charlie Hunnam underwent extensive physical training for his role.

Description: After a plane crash in the Alaskan wilderness, survivors must navigate the harsh environment, embodying the spirit of an unexpected first expedition.

Fact: The film was shot in Smithers, British Columbia, which provided a similar environment to Alaska. Liam Neeson did many of his own stunts.

Description: Based on the real-life expedition of Thor Heyerdahl, this film follows his journey across the Pacific Ocean on a primitive raft to prove his theory of Polynesian origins.

Fact: The film was shot in both English and Norwegian, with different actors for each version. The raft used in the film was built using the same materials and techniques as the original.

Description: This film recounts the harrowing 1996 Mount Everest disaster, where several climbers faced extreme conditions and life-threatening situations, embodying the spirit of first expeditions.

Fact: The film was shot at the actual location of the disaster, providing an authentic backdrop to the story. Jake Gyllenhaal prepared for his role by climbing to the base camp of Everest.

Description: A gripping tale of astronaut Mark Watney's struggle to survive on Mars after being left behind by his crew, showcasing the ultimate first expedition to another planet.

Fact: NASA provided technical assistance to ensure the film's scientific accuracy. The potatoes grown by Mark Watney were actually grown on the set.

Description: A documentary detailing Sir Ernest Shackleton's ill-fated expedition to cross Antarctica, highlighting the incredible survival story of his crew.

Fact: The film includes original footage shot by Frank Hurley, the expedition's photographer. The ship, Endurance, was recently discovered at the bottom of the Weddell Sea.