"The River Runner chronicles the 20-year effort of legendary expedition kayaker Scott Lindgren to become the first man to paddle the four great rivers that flow from the sacred Kailash Mountain in Tibet. The film is not just a stunning adventure, but an intimate portrait of Lindgren as he struggles with the dire circumstances of trauma, addiction and a life-threatening brain tumor.
As a result of her strict upbringing, Lindgren suppresses any sign of emotional vulnerability. His obsession grows stronger and stronger, and he becomes increasingly obsessed with the idea of paddling in the world's most dangerous white water. "The River Runner is an honest look at adventure culture and what is lost when adrenaline and the desire to succeed at all costs take precedence over emotional well-being. When Lindgren's demons finally find their way to the surface, he realizes that in order to achieve his goals, he must discover his own definition of strength.