In the winter of 1999, Swiss explorer Bertrand Piccard and British flight instructor Brian Jonesembark on an attempt to complete the last great aviation challenge of the 20th century – to circumnavigate the globe, nonstop in a hot-air balloon. Rival teams are lifting off across the world and the race is on to be the first to write their name in the history books. Working together, Piccard and Jones must overcome extreme weather conditions, survive potentially fatal technical failures and endure increasing mental and physical exhaustion if they want to make it.
“Dower’s filmmaking panache keeps us invested in the mystery and danger of men going toe-to-toe with nature. On those grounds alone, “The Balloonists” is a deeply satisfying experience. Outside of that, it has the disposition of a vintage buddy movie and an underdog tale, one that celebrates human determination and the notion of advancement through science.” – Variety
Directed By:
John Dower