Historical accuracy of 127 Hours
Characters
Story
Setting
Historical accuracy of: 127 Hours
Characters
Story
Setting
Characters
Aron falls and gets trapped
Aron Ralston did fall and become trapped by a boulder while canyoneering in Blue John Canyon, Utah. This is the central event of both the film and his autobiography.
Story
Time trapped: 127 hours
Ralston was trapped for approximately 127 hours (5 days and 7 hours), as the title accurately reflects.
Limited supplies shown
Ralston had minimal food, water, and equipment with him, as depicted in the film. This contributed to the severity of his situation.
Recording video messages
Ralston documented his experience with a video camera, leaving messages for his family. The film uses these as a narrative device.
Hallucinations and memories
Under duress and facing dehydration, Ralston likely experienced hallucinations and vivid memories, as portrayed in the film.
Self-amputation with dull knife
This is the most dramatic and accurate aspect. Ralston was forced to amputate his own arm with a multi-tool to escape.
Rappelling after amputation
Weakened and injured, Ralston had to rappel down a cliff face after freeing himself, a feat accurately shown in the film.
Encountering family while hiking
The film adds a fictional encounter with a family to create dramatic tension. Ralston was alone during his ordeal.
Flashback to previous climb
While the specific details are uncertain, Ralston likely reflected on past experiences, as the film suggests.
Emotional breakdown depicted
Facing death and extreme isolation, Ralston likely experienced a range of intense emotions, as portrayed in the film.
Rescue by helicopter
Ralston was eventually discovered and rescued by a helicopter crew, ending his ordeal.
Physical and psychological effects
The film realistically portrays the physical toll of dehydration, injury, and amputation, as well as the psychological impact of isolation and trauma.
Overall
Overall historical accuracy
127 Hours' is considered a highly accurate depiction of Ralston's experience. Ralston himself has praised the film's authenticity.