National Geographic debuted the trailer for Fly, a visually stunning documentary on BASE jumping. The documentary follows three couples involved in the extreme sport of BASE jumping.

The documentary directed by Shaul Schwarz and Christina Clusiau (‘Shaun White: The Last Run,’ ‘Immigration Nation,’ the Emmy(R) Award-winning ‘Trophy’) had its world premiere at the 2024 SXSW Festival and also screened at Hot Docs.

Release Date

Directed by Shaul Schwarz and Christina Clusiau, ‘Fly’ opens in select IMAX theaters on September 2-3, 2024. The documentary will have its broadcast debut on National Geographic Channel September 24 and will be available to stream the following day on Disney+ and Hulu.

Synopsis

What if the very thing that fuels you could also be your downfall? Humans have long dreamed of the freedom of flight.

In the heart-stopping documentary FLY, from National Geographic Documentary Films, directors Shaul Schwarz and Christina Clusiau (“Shaun White: The Last Run,” “Immigration Nation,” the Emmy® Award-winning “Trophy”) immerse viewers in the exhilarating yet perilous world of BASE jumping. At the heart of the film are three couples: Jimmy and Marta, pioneering figures affectionately known as the “Mom and Pop” of BASE jumping; the fearless wingsuit pilot Scotty and his newfound love, Julia; and the resilient duo Amber and Espen, whose bond is tested by triumph and tragedy. Through breathtaking aerial footage, vérité scenes and intimate interviews, the film explores the complex balance between passion and sacrifice. A poignant love story that celebrates the spirit of those who dare to defy gravity, capturing the essence of what it truly means to live on the edge.

“For the past seven years, we have been documenting the lives of BASE jumpers. Our films, much like our approach, seek to raise questions rather than provide answers. Who are these individuals, and what drives them to risk their lives for a passion knowing it could possibly kill them? Standing on the edge of a cliff and leaping into the void requires a willingness to sacrifice everything – be it the love of your life or the life you love.” said directors Shaul Schwarz and Christina Clausiau on their vision of the documentary.

Reviews

Abe Friedtanzer in a Cinema Daily US review praised the documentary, giving it a B+ score, writing, “Where this film succeeds best is in capturing the magic of this sport, potentially encouraging those who would never have even considered it to ponder how it might actually feel.”

Pat Mullen in a POV Magazine review also gave the film a positive review, writing, “Fly explores the (ir)responsibility of jumping through the three love stories that fuel it. Besides Jimmy and Marta, and Espen and Amber, Fly observes as Scotty falls in love with fellow jumper Julia. As each couple shares their mutual passion, they also acknowledge that even love can’t defy gravity. At what point, the film asks, does life offer enough of a leap?”

Official Trailer

Watch the official trailer for ‘Fly’.