The documentary "High Above – Highlining On Tribulaun" tells the story of an extraordinary project on the majestic Pflerscher Tribulaun in the Alps. Between the main summit (West Summit) and the East Summit, separated by a deep, route-free gorge, five experienced highliners – Markus Thaler, Robert "Bertl" Pelz, Tobias "Tobi" Gerhardt, Johannes "Jonny" Ellemunt, and Mark Michael Mair – stretch a highline and dare to attempt the daring balancing act at dizzying heights.
With kilograms of equipment, the crew climbs the mountain, sets anchor points, and secures the line. Uncertain weather conditions and brittle rock make it unclear whether the endeavor will succeed. When Mark finally crosses the 60-meter-long highline at an altitude of 3,097 meters, the others follow – a battle against vertigo, fear, and exhaustion.
"High Above" combines the fascination of highlining with the history and significance of the Pflerscher Tribulaun. Breathtaking images, deep insights into the preparation, and personal moments of the athletes make this documentary a unique experience that unites courage, nature, and adventure.
A SickLevel Production Film
Tobias Marcotto
SickLevel Production
Director
Some projects start with a clear vision, while others emerge from a spontaneous idea—and then grow beyond themselves. This project was the latter. What began as a vague idea of a highline across the gaping gorge at Pflerscher Tribulaun turned into a unique expedition, a borderline experience between sky and abyss.
Our mission was not only to accompany these daring athletes but also to capture the raw beauty of the moment—the tension before the first step, the absolute focus in the middle of the line, the triumph over one's own limits. This was no staging but a documentary of pure passion, the power of will, and the fascination for the extreme.
For months, our team prepared to make the impossible tangible on film. Every camera position was meticulously planned, every shot captured with the utmost care—because there was no second chance. Our biggest challenge was to be as close to the athletes as possible without taking any risks ourselves.
This documentary is more than just spectacular images of extreme sports. It tells a story of courage, team spirit, and the relentless pursuit of new horizons.
One person in particular to whom I would like to express my deepest gratitude is someone who has always been by my side from the very beginning, without ever wanting to be in the foreground.
