Into the Wild

In May 1990, Christopher McCandless graduates from Emory University with high honors. This achievement marks a significant milestone in his academic life but also sets the stage for his radical transformation and departure from societal norms.

Following his graduation, McCandless makes the drastic decision to destroy his credit cards and identification. By donating most of his savings to Oxfam, he symbolically sheds his previous life, seeking freedom away from conventional societal constraints.

Christopher embarks on a cross-country journey in his Datsun B210, fully committed to his newfound quest for freedom and self-discovery. During this time, he cuts ties with his family, leaving them anxious about his whereabouts.

While at Lake Mead, McCandless's car gets stuck in a sudden flash flood. This event compels him to abandon the car and begin hitchhiking, blazing his own trail towards the wilderness.

After abandoning his car, McCandless burns the remains of his cash and adopts the moniker 'Alexander Supertramp.' This name change signifies his complete rejection of his former life and identity as he ventures into the unknown.

In Northern California, McCandless encounters Jan Burres and her partner Rainey. He becomes a pivotal force in helping them mend their troubled relationship, showcasing his desire for human connection amidst his solitary journey.

In September, McCandless finds temporary work with harvesting company owner Wayne Westerberg. However, his time is cut short when Westerberg is arrested, leading Christopher to continue his journey without stability.

McCandless navigates the Colorado River, boldly kayaking without a permit, illustrating his reckless pursuit of adventure. After losing his kayak in a dust storm, he is forced to retrace his steps back into the U.S.

By December 1991, McCandless finds himself in Slab City, California, where he reunites with Jan and Rainey. He also meets Tracy Tatro, a girl who shows interest in him, but he chooses to respect her youth by politely declining her advances.

While camping near Salton City, McCandless meets Ron Franz, who shares his personal grief over losing his family. Franz imparts valuable skills to McCandless, teaching him leather-working and helping him create a meaningful belt that chronicles his journey.

As McCandless settles into life in the Magic Bus, he faces the harsh realities of living off the land. With dwindling supplies and challenging conditions, he begins to realize that true happiness lies in connection with others rather than isolation.

Despite his longing to return to society, McCandless encounters a swollen stream that blocks his way. This moment emphasizes the unpredictability and danger of the wilderness, forcing him back into the isolation of the bus.

In a desperate attempt to survive, McCandless forages for food but mistakenly consumes a toxic plant. This error results in severe illness, bringing the harsh reality of his isolation and lack of knowledge about the wilderness to a tragic climax.

In his final moments, McCandless writes in his diary, reflecting on his family and the life he has led. His poignant farewell underscores the deep sense of longing and regret that permeates his journey.

Two weeks after his demise, McCandless's body is discovered by a group of moose hunters. The tragic end of his quest for freedom serves as a somber reminder of the risks involved in seeking solitude and enlightenment in the wild.

Soon after, his sister Carine retrieves Christopher's ashes, carrying them back to Virginia. This act embodies the bittersweet end of his journey, as she honors his memory while struggling with the loss.