questionable message

Rating: 2/10 (16 May 2013)

I've seen Into the Wild without prior knowledge of the topic apart from the fact that Sean Penn directed it. Therefore my review is based on what i've seen and not what i've learned while researching afterward.
Sean Penn has always been known as a rebel, sometimes with and sometimes without a cause. Christopher McCandless, the main character of the movie, was hardheaded, as well, which presumably caught his attention.
The movie has been made during George W. Bush's second term as President of the United States. Sean Penn has been dissatisfied with his administration and very vocal about it. Therefore there might be a cryptic message that people like Christopher McCandless built the United States. They were valiant individuals (and individualists) who gave their best to fulfill their dreams of a better life. And what time is better to send this message than before the elections...
Despite art-house ambition, Into the Wild is rather mainstream in it's essence. The main character travels across the United States and even changes several lives on his way. Although i wouldn't agree with his relation to reality the movie was still watchable.
However, at the moment when Christopher McCandless moves into the wilderness, the message of the movie became questionable. He didn't only go without a map, but almost without provisions. Yet, it was still his choice to do so. But the movie goes one step further and implies that it is alright to pursue your dreams, even if you put your life in danger.
The soundtrack by Eddie Vedder fits wells into the movie, although i'm no fan of his and wouldn't listen to it again.