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Story Story

Aron falls and gets trapped

True

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.

Time trapped: 127 hours

True

Ralston was trapped for approximately 127 hours (5 days and 7 hours), as the title accurately reflects.

Limited supplies shown

True

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

True

Ralston documented his experience with a video camera, leaving messages for his family. The film uses these as a narrative device.

Hallucinations and memories

Probably true

Under duress and facing dehydration, Ralston likely experienced hallucinations and vivid memories, as portrayed in the film.

Self-amputation with dull knife

True

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

True

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

False

The film adds a fictional encounter with a family to create dramatic tension. Ralston was alone during his ordeal.

Flashback to previous climb

Probably true

While the specific details are uncertain, Ralston likely reflected on past experiences, as the film suggests.

Emotional breakdown depicted

Probably true

Facing death and extreme isolation, Ralston likely experienced a range of intense emotions, as portrayed in the film.

Rescue by helicopter

True

Ralston was eventually discovered and rescued by a helicopter crew, ending his ordeal.

Physical and psychological effects

Good depiction

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

Good depiction

127 Hours' is considered a highly accurate depiction of Ralston's experience. Ralston himself has praised the film's authenticity.