An Uphill Climb is a film that peers into the extraordinary life of Kyle Packer, a man often seen by others through a prism colored by his disability. Those who take the time to look beneath the cerebral palsy that is so physically obvious find a rich treasure of human experience. They witness resilience and courage, sensitivity and strength, and above all, an optimistic spirit that pervades every part of his life.
The film follows Kyle through some of the more difficult parts of his daily routine, and travels with him to Idaho and Wyoming for white water rafting and rock climbing. The climax of the film takes place during a rock climb in southern Idaho, where Kyle faces some of his deepest fears and draws on all the skills he and his fellow climbers can muster to successfully complete the climb.
In this film, stunning images of Kyle's activities provide a rich texture, both visually and emotionally. Kyle lets people know that it's okay to stare at first, that we can laugh with him at some of the stuff he does. But he also wants to make sure that no one--not a single person--feels sorry for him. Watching Kyle, viewers will share his excitement, fear, frustration, and ultimately, triumph. Best of all, no one who sees it will view a fellow human being, disabled or not, the same way they did before.
The recipient of three Mid-America Emmy awards, An Uphill Climb is an unashamedly optimistic portrait, celebrating the human spirit in the telling of this compelling and triumphant story.
