I just watched the movie yesterday and I am confused why there was no communication between the base camp and the two climbers after the summit? When the helicopter comes Jacki says "We're not communicating". But there is no explanation given to WHY? Was the radio damaged when the climbers fell after Harold slipped? Did I miss something?
shareIn the first draft of the screenplay the batteries died (and when Taylor checked Dallas, he had everything BUT a radio). If I had to guess, they cut it because just the thought of calling for help would implant in the audience's hopes the possibility that the helicopter might take a risk and fly higher than it was cleared for, while you are supposed to only be thinking about Taylor quickly getting Harold down at that point. They didn't want you thinking there was any chance they might just hunker down and be saved. They wanted Harold's life to be solely in Taylor's hands for as long as possible. And they wanted Malik's decision to risk his life and his job for them to be a last minute surprise so it would be more dramatic.
btw I am pretty sure "we're not communicating" meant "you and me", when they were arguing. She was trying to tell him that he wasn't listening to what she was saying.
The Bloody Gate, The Bloody Hound, Evidently Chickentown.