Have you ever wanted to just leave it all behind? Forget about the job, the kids, bills... just live off the grid somewhere and see where life takes you? I probably can't speak for everyone, but I'd be more than willing to bet that everyone at some point or another has had the desire. For me, this is what makes a movie like Into the Wild such an interesting film. It isn't something you watch because you're interested in the story, or really the characters. Instead, it is more about the journey and the experience.

Into the Wild is based on the John Krakauer novel of the same name and is inspired by the true story of Christopher McCandless (Emile Hirsch), a privileged kid who, in response to what he perceives as his parent's materialistic lifestyle, leaves everything behind in search of a new life in Alaska. Taking the name Alexander Supertramp, he destroys everything tying him to his past life and donates his entire savings to charity before setting out in a busted car. As he continues along his cross-country trek, he comes into contact with a cross-section of American life, including a traveling farmer (Vince Vaughn), a rocker chick (Kristen Stewart) and a lonely leather worker (Hal Holbrook) who offers to adopt Christopher.

Into the Wild is, again, more about the experience than the story. I'd even venture to say that it isn't even about Christopher, but rather his journey. He isn't the most likeable of characters, or in my mind, the most sympathetic of people (even when you know things won't end well). Yet, the viewer is sort of "stuck" with him during the journey and what essentially becomes suicide due to idealistic stupidity. Despite this, it is still an incredibly fascinating film. It's also one that I think viewers will be able to take their own message from. For some, it will be about Christopher's journey, for others it might be the ultimate non-conformist fantasy. For me, it was about my place in the world. It's easy to become so wrapped up in daily life that I sometimes forget that there are other people with their own lives.

The Blu-ray release comes with improved quality and sound over the DVD release, though it is light on the extras. One feature, "The Experience," follows the making of the film and details the experience. The second, "The Story, The Characters" offers a much deeper look at the characters and the part they play in Christopher's quest. Both are great additions, though I couldn't help but feel a little cheated. I'm sure there are reasons behind it, but whenever I see something based around a true event, I always want to know a little more about the person and their life. Regardless, Into the Wild is a great film and I can't recommend it enough.