Those familiar with films like "South" or "Endurance," both detailing Shackleton’s Antarctic expedition of 1914, will likely have some anticipation for what's presented here, though this journey to Antarctica benefits from considerably more advanced technology. A decade had elapsed since those earlier voyages; now steam power was commonplace, electricity was available, and the team possessed three aeroplanes intended to aid in surveying. That doesn’t mean conditions were any easier for American Admiral Richard Byrd as he gathered a group of dedicated individuals to sail to the other side of the globe before establishing a base among the seals and penguins. Despite these improvements, it remained a difficult undertaking for the crew, who spent over one hundred days enduring winter darkness within their almost underground living quarters, finally emerging during a short spring season. An initial problem with one of the aircraft served as a reminder (to both them and us) that even the most dependable technology is no match for an unexpected blizzard; however, through meticulous preparation they should be able to accomplish their objective – a flight into the interior and over the pole itself. This isn't a film overflowing with energetic dogsled teams or dramatic, windswept landscapes; instead, it’s more of a tribute to logistics, scientific endeavor, and some striking photography from two of Paramount’s top cinematographers (who were almost certainly paid extra for the risk). It is that imagery which sustains interest: the untouched scenery, the large sailing vessels, the animals, and their ongoing effort to prevent the continent from taking back what they named “Little America.” While it may not be as thrilling to view compared to earlier portrayals of this frozen region, it remains a worthwhile experience.

Source on TMDB