Bob Odenkirk and David Cross Discuss the Challenge That Prompted Their Ascent of Machu Picchu

      Three years after nearly facing death from a heart attack, Bob Odenkirk consented to hike Machu Picchu in Peru with his close friend and longtime collaborator David Cross. The idea originated with Cross, who had been longing to trek the Inca Trail for several years. Following Odenkirk’s heart attack in 2021 while filming Better Call Saul, Cross felt it was time to pursue this dream before it was too late. When Cross invited Odenkirk, whom he met in the '90s on The Ben Stiller Show, to join him, Odenkirk immediately agreed.

      A film crew documented the comedy duo's four-day journey in 2024, resulting in the documentary titled Bob and David Climb Machu Picchu. This 80-minute feature showcases stunning landscapes along with a wealth of humor. However, it is neither a travel documentary nor a comedy special. Rather, it delves into themes of friendship, careers, and the fragility of life. "We wanted to set the expectation in the first 10 minutes that, ‘Don’t come here looking for a travelogue,’" Odenkirk remarked. "And don’t expect a fact-based exploration you might find in a Rick Steves' documentary; instead, just relax and enjoy the company of these guys." The film also discusses Cross and Odenkirk's cult classic HBO comedy series, Mr. Show with Bob and David—featured on MovieMaker’s list of the funniest TV shows—and includes clips of Cross in Arrested Development as well as Odenkirk in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. Cross mentioned that the film “transcends” typical celebrity documentaries.

      "That’s what makes it unique and meaningful," Cross explained. "It’s about friendship. You don’t need to be in the entertainment industry to relate to reconnecting with a friend whom you don’t see often while embarking on a special adventure together." Bob and David Climb Machu Picchu premiered at the Tribeca Festival on June 6. We spoke to them about sharing personal stories at great heights.

      MovieMaker: Did this documentary serve as a pitch for a travel series featuring both of you?

      Bob Odenkirk: There is definitely a consideration of doing more adventures like this. More so than a TV series, if people enjoyed the atmosphere of this film, we would be open to doing something similar with more challenging adventures centered around just spending time with friends.

      MovieMaker: Your much-loved HBO ‘90s sketch show, Mr. Show with Bob and David, is referenced frequently in the documentary. Are you aiming to return to Netflix for another episode of the Mr. Show reunion series "W/ Bob and David"?

      Bob Odenkirk: I take great pride in those shows we created, and I know Ted Sarandos cherishes them too. However, we're both deeply involved in various other projects. I don’t think we could dedicate ourselves to the extent needed to generate another series.

      David Cross: It requires a lot of commitment.

      MovieMaker: Regarding Netflix, it seems that they or other major platforms would be interested in funding this kind of documentary. What led you to choose an independent route with Left/Right?

      Bob Odenkirk: We desired a handmade vibe. With Left/Right, we knew we could achieve that feel. We were also discovering new aspects while filming. We didn’t want to create a straightforward travel documentary; there are moments when I inadvertently drift into that territory, but largely, we intended to just enjoy time together as old friends and share some laughs, all while exploring a remarkable place.

      MovieMaker: The 2024 documentary Will & Harper addresses social issues, but did that inspire this project?

      Bob Odenkirk: No. I was motivated by two things: one was the Beatles documentary, Get Back; after six hours, I felt, "I could easily enjoy another six hours just watching them hang out." The second was podcasts—conversations where friends talked casually. These experiences highlighted a strong desire among audiences to unwind after work, away from social media and texting, and simply listen to someone familiar, enjoying their company as long as they can. Get Back and podcasts inspired me to believe a documentary in this style could resonate.

      MovieMaker: You both exhibit great humor throughout the film. Did you feel any pressure to continually perform during the hike?

      David Cross: Not really. We were confident that with the extensive amount of footage we gathered, we would uncover some great moments.

      MovieMaker: In the documentary, you both openly discuss your complicated relationships with your fathers, the entertainment industry, and Bob, your heart attack. Were there any topics off-limits?

      Bob Odenkirk: We both felt like we shouldn’t force emotional conversations. Your mention of Will & Harper is valid; I was aware that we were attempting to create a documentary centered around a period where nothing particularly significant was happening in our personal lives. We were just going