Only you know what you're capable of and you'll never find out if you don't try it.

~Dierdre Wolownick

I am excited to share a first glance at my new documentary,
"Climbing into Life"

A film about the remarkable story of Dierdre Wolownick, an accomplished writer, artist and musician. Ever curious, and inspired by her adult children’s love of extreme sports, she set aside her fears and jumped into the unknown. At age 66, Dierdre became the oldest woman to ascend Yosemite’s famed El Capitan.

~Melissa Davey – Filmmaker

Watch The trailer

Upcoming Film Festivals where you can watch Climbing into Life:

Phoenixville Film Festival, Phoenixville, PA, Friday, September 20, 2024 at 4:30 PM
Montana International Film Festival, Billings, MT, Saturday, September 21 at 12:25 PM
Washington West Film Festival, Tysons Corner, VA, Saturday October 12 at 12:00 PM
LA Femme International Film Festival, Los Angeles, October 24-27 (screening date to be announced soon)
CIL Sacramento FL Outstanding Documentary
Washington West Award
Phoenixville Film Festival Official Selection
Full Bloom Film Festival
Broadway International Film Festival LA
Montana International Film Festival 2024
Toronto Lift Off Official Selection

Join the Climbing Into Life Tribe!

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“I decided maybe this is my chance to have a life.”

-Dierdre Wolownick

” I am very pleasantly surprised at what Mom has done in the second half of her life.”

-Alex Honnold

“Even though Dierdre spoke seven languages, played at least 3 instruments, was an oil painter/artist and prolific writer, she still wanted more.”

-Hannah Hale

Interested in a private screening with Q & A session for your group?

I’d be happy to discuss format, availability and rates with you.

Reach out here!

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MEET THE FILMMAKER

Melissa Davey Documentary Filmmaker
Director / Producer

Meet Melissa
What People are Saying...
~ Jane O’Keeffe
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I had the pleasure of viewing Climbing Into Life! What a beautiful film. I had seen Free Solo which was very exciting, but like so many daredevil films, I was an observer. This film made the possibility of participation occur to me. What an extraordinary woman! Thank you for bringing this beautiful film to life. Well done!
~Sarah Middleton
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"Climbing into Life" is an inspiring and uplifting documentary that will leave you breathless and motivated! The film tells the incredible story of Dierdre Wolownick, a 66-year-old woman who embarks on a journey to climb El Capitan in Yosemite National Park. With stunning cinematography and intimate interviews, the documentary takes you on a thrilling adventure that's as much about conquering fear and doubt as it is about reaching new heights. Dierdre’s determination, and infectious enthusiasm make her a joy to watch, and her story is a powerful reminder that age is just a number and that our lives are defined by our passions and willingness to take risks. The film's themes of perseverance, resilience, and self-discovery are expertly woven throughout, making it a must-see for anyone looking for a story of hope and inspiration. The climbing sequences are heart-pumping and visually stunning, putting you right on the rock face alongside Deirdre as she faces her fears and pushes herself to new heights. Overall, "Climbing into Life" is a triumphant documentary that will leave you feeling empowered and motivated to chase your own dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem and no matter what your age is. Don't miss this incredible film! (5/5 stars)
~ Alex Brown
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As a 24-year-old audiovisual professional, I thoroughly enjoyed the film. The quality of production was exquisite and captures the message, perspective, and story perfectly, while captivating an audience and conveying an important message about the importance of connection between younger and older adults, including the absence of limitation on achievements that can be made in the golden years.
~ Victoria Gonin
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Beautiful film… there is a deepness and richness in the story that is subtle yet profound. A message can be found in this film for people of all ages.
~ Gina Vild
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Melissa Davey's film, Climbing into Life, entertains and inspires. She takes you on a riveting journey of a woman who defies expectations and shatters stereotypes as she takes you along on her thrilling adventure. Prepare to smile and cheer for the heroine of the film, for the filmmaker and also for the indomitable spirit that resides in all of us.
~ Mara Rosenthal
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"Climbing Into Life" is a sports documentary, not what you'd expect from its title or its filmmaker, who specializes in inspiring stories about older women. Even without an explosive title like "Free Solo" or "Dawn Wall," it surpasses the recent "Nyad" with better scenery and more danger for the athlete (and crew). An unusual twist is that the subject only became an athlete later in life, and is not just trying to recapture past glory. The film is nearly as spectacular as the setting of El Capitan.
~ Martie Mackay
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Your documentary gave us a portrait of a woman who, in spite of a repressive childhood and a frustrating marriage, managed to nurture and make use of her talents, enabling her to raise and support her children. Her musical and linguistic skills lead her to accomplishments that would have been more than enough for most people. Then later in life her turn toward the athleticism of climbing was remarkable and you captured that pivot so beautifully, showing her grit and tenacity. The joy she experienced after her first summit was profound and your film brought that emotion vividly to every member of the audience. I love that you showed her hands playing the piano, then later, those same hands made their way up the climbing wall and eventually the face of El Capitan. Scaling! Climbing! Brava to you!
~ Jeanne Demers
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I saw Climbing Into Life: The Dierdre Wolownick Story at its premiere screening two nights ago. It's the kind of film that stays with you and keeps working on you. I feel emboldened and empowered by it. The cliche "it's never too late to be what you might have been" is brought to life by Melissa Davey's exquisite storytelling in a film that illustrates through Dierdre's story that who we are meant to be is "in there" and can't be denied. And if we are able to flow with what a life does with our original ideas and plans for ourselves, we can count on opportunities to 'be who we are meant to be' to continue to present themselves - in ways we never would have imagined! This film has inspired me to stay open to how 'who I am meant to be' will present itself and to say YES to it - no matter how beyond my imagination it is! Thank you, Melissa, for this incredible piece of filmmaking.
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