Cliffhanger (1993)

Cliffhanger is a classic 90s action-thriller that combines stunning mountain landscapes, intense action, and a survival story at its core. Directed by Renny Harlin, known for his work on action-packed thrillers like Die Hard 2 (1990), Cliffhanger is a high-altitude rollercoaster of tension, betrayal, and heroism. Sylvester Stallone stars as Gabe Walker, a rugged mountain rescue ranger who becomes entangled in a dangerous heist involving ruthless criminals led by the sadistic Eric Qualen (John Lithgow). The film is remembered for its breathtaking stunts, intense sequences, and Stallone’s commanding presence as the hero.
The film opens with a high-stakes rescue mission on a treacherous mountain peak. Gabe Walker (Stallone), a skilled mountaineer, is unable to save a fellow climber, resulting in the tragic death of his friend, which weighs heavily on him. A year later, Gabe is struggling with guilt and has distanced himself from his career as a mountain ranger. However, his skills are put to the test when a plane carrying millions of dollars in stolen money crashes in the mountains. The criminals, led by the ruthless Qualen (Lithgow), hijack Gabe and his partner’s rescue mission, forcing them to help retrieve the money from the snow-covered peaks.
What follows is a battle of survival, as Gabe must confront his personal demons, face the hostile criminals, and navigate a series of dangerous mountain hazards in a race against time. As the tension rises, the action intensifies, leading to explosive confrontations and breathtaking stunts in the unforgiving wilderness.