Documentary Looking UP Shines a Light on Resilience and Determination
– By James McFadden –
In a world where obstacles often seem insurmountable, the new documentary Looking UP delivers a powerful message of perseverance, courage, and the ability to turn challenges into opportunities. The film follows the extraordinary journey of Eitan Armon, a young man facing the devastating reality of losing his sight. But instead of succumbing to despair, he embarks on an incredible quest to climb Yosemite National Park’s legendary El Capitan, one of Earth’s most formidable granite walls.
At just 20 years old, while serving as a sharpshooter in the military, Armon received a life-altering diagnosis: Retinitis Pigmentosa, a rare genetic disease that progressively deteriorates vision. With only 5% of his central vision remaining, time was running out. Yet, rather than focusing on what he could not control, Armon made the bold decision to push his physical and mental limits to achieve what many would deem impossible.
Directed and produced by Elena Neuman, Looking UP captures Armon’s journey with stunning cinematography, heart-pounding climbing sequences, and an intimate exploration of his personal struggle. The film goes beyond adventure; it delves into the science behind inherited visual disabilities and the groundbreaking advances in stem cell retinal transplant research that bring hope to those affected by retinal diseases.
The Utah premiere of Looking UP is set to take place on February 27 in St. George, marking only the second time the film will be screened in a theater. The world premiere took place last month in Miami. Neuman, along with Armon’s climbing partners, Jay Lefkowitz, and professional climber Willie Benegas, will be in attendance. The trio will engage with audiences in a post-screening Q&A, offering deeper insights into the making of the film and the inspiring message at its core.
Benegas, a seasoned climber and Utah resident based in Sandy played a pivotal role in the film’s production, with scenes shot in the Wasatch Mountains to document Armon’s training. The breathtaking landscapes, coupled with Armon’s unwavering determination, make Looking UP both a visually stunning climbing film and a deeply moving human story.
For Neuman, this project is deeply personal. “This film was four years in the making, and its message of resilience and positivity speaks to all audiences,” she said. “It’s a universal story about overcoming limitations and finding strength in adversity.”
The film’s impact extends beyond the climbing community. It resonates with anyone who has faced hardship, reminding us that with the right mindset, obstacles can become stepping stones toward greatness.
Neuman hopes to bring Looking UP to a wider audience and is available for interviews to share its inspiring story. As the Utah premiere approaches, she invites audiences to witness Armon’s remarkable journey, engage in meaningful discussions, and leave the theater with a renewed sense of hope and determination.
Visit the DOCUTAH website for more information on all of the films you can enjoy at this years Film Festival.
