‘Skywalkers: A Love Story’ Netflix Review - Love Knows No Heights, Quite Literally

The documentary opened with a warning, immediately piquing my curiosity about its subject matter. I was initially unaware of the sky-walkers, who are also prominent social media influencers. The film begins by introducing Angela Nikolau, who shares her story, shedding light on her background and motivations.

Angela recounts her childhood, starting with her mother’s career in the circus. She describes how life was idyllic until her father left her mother for another woman, leading her grandmother to step in as her primary caregiver. This upheaval in her family dynamics profoundly Angela.

Angela explains that her passion for climbing skyscrapers is deeply rooted in her upbringing. Growing up around the circus, she developed an innate drive for adventure and a connection to heights. She felt a magnetic pull towards skyscrapers as if they were calling her to touch the sky, blending her love for heights with a quest for personal fulfillment. This compelling narrative sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the world of skywalkers and their unique subculture.

The narrative then shifts to Ivan Beerkus, who began climbing high-rise buildings as a means of escaping the turmoil at home. Angela recalls that when she first delved into the climbing scene, she realized there were limited female climbers in the country. Determined to carve her own path, she faced resistance from male climbers who showed little interest in including her in their endeavors.

However, her fortunes changed when Ivan Beerkus invited her to join him on a climb. His sponsors were specifically looking for a female climber to partner with him, creating an opportunity for Angela. As they climbed together, a romantic relationship blossomed between them, enhancing their partnership both on and off the buildings.

Their collaboration yielded powerful content that captivated audiences worldwide. Their daring climbs, documented through stunning photos and videos, set them apart in the growing community of skywalkers. Yet, they knew they needed to push boundaries to distinguish themselves further.

They set their sights on Merdeka, a towering skyscraper in Singapore. This ambitious goal required meticulous planning due to the building's formidable height and the legal risks involved—climbing it was not only dangerous but also classified as trespassing.

The documentary builds suspense as it follows their preparations, highlighting the physical and mental challenges they face. Angela’s injury adds another layer of tension: Will it force them to abandon their audacious dream, or will they find a way to conquer Merdeka despite the odds?

This gripping story delves into the world of urban climbing, revealing the personal motivations, risks, and rewards that drive individuals like Angela and Ivan to defy gravity and societal norms in pursuit of their passion.

Featuring Instagram sensations Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus, this fast-paced documentary keeps you on the edge of your seat, offering a fascinating glimpse into their extraordinary lives. With head camera footage providing an immersive view of what it’s like to scale those towering skyscrapers, the documentary paints a vivid picture of their daring exploits.

At times, the film feels more like a scripted movie, with Angela and Ivan delivering lines that seem pre-written and choreographed. This blend of documentary and cinematic elements creates a unique hybrid that may not fit the purist's definition of a documentary but is undeniably captivating.

Whether it leans more towards a movie or a documentary, one thing is certain: it's a thrilling watch that offers a deep dive into the world of urban climbing and the fearless individuals who risk it all for their passion.

Final Score- [8/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times