Explorer: The Last Tepui – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

Explorer: The Last Tepui

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

movie2022

78%

WISE Score

Alex Honnold climbs a 1,000-foot cliff in the Amazon to help scientists hunt for new species—National Geographic does what it does best.

Explorer: The Last Tepui

movie

PG-13, 2022

78%

WISE Score

Alex Honnold climbs a 1,000-foot cliff in the Amazon to help scientists hunt for new species—National Geographic does what it does best.

Jump to

Also rated on

View →

Where to Watch

Loading streaming options...

Where-to-watch data byJustWatch

Screenwise Verdict

This is solid National Geographic fare—beautiful, educational, and genuinely adventurous without being sensationalized. It's not going to blow your mind (the 6.9 IMDb rating is fair), but it does what it sets out to do well.

The climbing sequences are intense but purposeful, not gratuitous. The science is real, led by actual researchers doing actual work. If your kid is into nature docs, rock climbing, or just wants to see one of the weirdest landscapes on Earth, this delivers.

It's not quite as gripping as Free Solo (nothing is), and the pacing drags in spots, but it's a strong pick for families with adventurous, science-minded kids. Just know that younger or anxious kids might find the cliff-hanging literally too much to handle.

Age Fit

Best for ages 10-13+ who are interested in nature, adventure sports, or science. The 13+ rating reflects intense climbing sequences and real danger, but mature 10-year-olds who aren't anxious about heights should be fine. Adults who enjoy nature documentaries will find it engaging too.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

Documentary follows a scientific expedition with positive collaboration between climbers and biologists. Models perseverance, teamwork, and respect for nature. Alex Honnold is known for his calm, thoughtful demeanor. The mission is inherently constructive—discovering new species and exploring remote ecosystems. No toxic behavior or inappropriate content expected in a National Geographic production.

Imaginative

Explores one of Earth's most remote and mysterious landscapes—tepuis (sky islands) in the Amazon. The concept of first-ascent climbing up a 1000-foot sheer cliff to discover potentially new species is genuinely imaginative and wonder-inducing. Invites curiosity about biodiversity, extreme environments, and what remains undiscovered on our planet. However, as a documentary it's more observational than participatory.

Safe

Common Sense Media rates it 13+, which suggests some intensity. Climbing documentaries typically include vertigo-inducing shots, moments of danger/tension, and potential for injury scenes. Given Alex Honnold's previous films (Free Solo had genuinely nerve-wracking moments), expect some white-knuckle sequences. The Amazon setting may include wildlife encounters. No sexual content, profanity likely minimal. The tension is real-world danger rather than gratuitous violence, but younger or anxious kids might find climbing sequences stressful.

Enriching

Highly educational about biodiversity, conservation, geology (tepuis are ancient rock formations), and the scientific process of species discovery. Bruce Means is a renowned biologist, adding legitimate scientific credibility. Shows the intersection of extreme athletics and scientific research. Models dedication, preparation, and problem-solving in challenging environments. IMDb 6.9 and Letterboxd 3.4/5 suggest solid but not spectacular execution. National Geographic production quality typically ensures strong educational value.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Combines extreme climbing with legitimate scientific discovery—kids see how adventure and research intersect in the real world
Showcases one of Earth's most alien landscapes (tepuis are basically prehistoric sky islands) with stunning cinematography
Models genuine teamwork between very different experts (climbers and biologists) working toward a shared goal
Educational without being preachy—you'll learn about biodiversity, conservation, and unique ecosystems naturally through the story
Alex Honnold brings his trademark calm intensity; if your kid loved Free Solo, this is a less heart-attack-inducing follow-up

⚠

What to Watch For

Climbing sequences include real danger and vertigo-inducing shots—not for kids who get anxious about heights or peril
Pacing may feel slow for action-seeking kids; this is more methodical expedition than non-stop thrills
Some scenes likely show the physical toll of the jungle (exhaustion, difficulty, possibly minor injuries)
The Amazon setting may include insects, wildlife, and challenging conditions that could make squeamish kids uncomfortable

Conversation Starters

"Why do you think these tepuis have species that don't exist anywhere else on Earth?"
"Would you rather be the climber getting scientists up the cliff or the biologist discovering new species at the top?"
"What do you think motivates someone like Alex Honnold to take these kinds of risks for science?"
"If you could explore one extreme environment on Earth, what would it be and why?"
"How do you think climate change might affect these isolated ecosystems?"

Ask Anything

Get a personalized guide on any topic