National Geographic Documentary Films is working with James Marsh and Magna Studios for a doc feature about Aron Ralston, whose experience of being trapped in a remote Utah canyon inspired the Danny Boyle film 127 Hours.
Set to premiere in 2027, the doc will feature previously unseen footage filmed by Ralston over six days of being trapped by a boulder.
“James Marsh has been at the top of our list of dream directors since the launch of our doc films banner almost a decade ago,” said Carolyn Bernstein, EVP of National Geographic Documentary Films. “It is a true bucket list moment to work with him on this enthralling, visceral and deeply human story. Ralston’s grit and determination in the face of overwhelming odds, coupled with unique access to his personal archive, make this story the perfect addition to our character-driven slate of films that inspire viewers to deepen their connection to each other and to the natural world.”
“Aron’s story is one of the great adventure stories of our time, a breathtaking tale of excruciating fear, suffering, courage and endurance,” said Marsh. “The recordings Aron made during his ordeal are unique and powerfully emotional, and they are an amazing gift to a filmmaker. He tells us what he was feeling and thinking throughout the time he was imprisoned, as he vacillates between hope and despair. Nat Geo has a brilliant track record in producing ambitious, cinematic documentaries that have moved and excited audiences, and they are the perfect home for this extraordinary project. I’m delighted to bring it to life alongside my close collaborators at Magna.”
Oliver Calleja, SVP of non-fiction at Magna Studios, added, “Aron’s footage is an astonishing, raw account of someone trapped in a perilous and profound dilemma. We knew it deserved a filmmaker who would excel in doing Aron and his recordings justice, and, given the creative alliance we share with James, he was always our first and dream choice. This is precisely the sort of impactful narrative we seek out and champion, and Nat Geo is the perfect partner for it. The project will be an incredible addition to our burgeoning body of work.”
