The Edge of Existence

The Edge of Existence follows an electronics lecturer, Cam Cameron, as he attempts to survive on the UK’s most remote island, Rockall, for a record of 50 days to prove his resilience and strength to himself and to inspire his family. This documentary explores why Cameron wants to undertake this expedition to such an outstanding depth and sheds light on an individual's courage and bravery in committing to something they're profoundly passionate about pursuing.

The film opens with an incredible sweeping shot of the ocean and Rockall, which immediately gives the viewer a sense of how remote the location actually is. While the premise may not appeal to a wider demographic, the filmmakers take a steady pace and take time to dive into why Cam Cameron wants to undertake this expedition. The slow pacing complements the prolonged build-up smoothly and explores Cameron’s past and family with an emotionally resonant turn by stripping back his grief and inner turmoil. It can be particularly tough to watch Cameron deal with his own issues at times, and the filmmakers showcase a helping hand of compassion to make sure the viewer has a deeper understanding of what he is going through and what primarily drives his ambition ahead. Cameron is simply comfortable to engage with, thanks to his down-to-earth personality and his drive to be close with his family, even with the expedition he's committed to undertaking. The filmmakers also provide insight into how Cameron’s venturing on this expedition affects his family, which is deeply touching as a viewer.

It's an incredibly ambitious piece of documentary filmmaking that puts you in Cameron’s point of view, with camerawork that feels visceral and claustrophobic as it tracks him venturing across the island of Rockall. The plethora of camera operators make incredible use of space with a stunning mix of drone shots overlooking the beautiful landscapes of Scotland and the oceans. Archival footage is suitably implemented to further enrich the expository dialogue and educational aspects for further discussions. Animated visualisation sequences are also immersive and give the viewer a more profound understanding of Rockall and the dangerous nature of survival there. The entire documentary makes astounding use of its budget, with every frame feeling expansive and intimate. However, the pacing can meander at times and feel stagnant in the back half of the runtime, which is a given from the objective of the expedition alone. Sam Clunie’s musical score is low-key and melancholic, anchoring scenes of recollection and visual storytelling which feel profoundly moving and unforgettable.

The conclusion to the documentary is astoundingly inspiring and hopeful as it shines a heavy light on human nature. It explores what it means to leave a legacy on the world by inspiring your family and aiding your well-being. While it may slightly overstay its welcome with far too much exposition and some pacing issues, it's an exceptionally inspiring and touching story of resilience and hope and the struggles of overcoming mental health.

The Edge of Existence is a tremendously moving piece of documentary filmmaking, tackling themes such as survival, family and determination. It takes its time to tell Cam Cameron's story and provides compassion towards the courage it took to complete this expedition. An educational and unforgettable build-up that feels earned in its inspiring, conclusive moments while supporting military charities and further reaching out Cameron’s ambitious courage to a broader audience.

World Premiere at Kendall Mountain Film Festival on Friday 21st Nov.