Based on true events, Tenzing tells the story of Tenzing Norgay (Genden Phuntsok), the gifted Himalayan climber who partnered with Sir Edmund Hillary (Tom Hiddleston) to climb the unreachable summit of Mount Everest. Ever since he was a young man, Norgay had dreamed of climbing ‘Chomolungma’ as a sign of respect for her as a sacred mother goddess. After convincing Colonel John Hunt (Willem Dafoe) to allow him to join the climbing team, Norgay believed that his dreams would be fully realized. Yet prejudice and power dynamic cloud their ascent and Norgay begins to feel the weight of others’ ambition. Nevertheless, high above the world, empire and rank fall away, creating a space where mutual respect and trust can elevate all those who are willing to make the climb.
Directed by Jennifer Peedom, Tenzing is an endearing and thrilling trek into the mountains that finally tells the story of Everest through fresh eyes. Although Tenzing Norgay’s involvement in Sir Edmund Hillary’s trek to the top of the iconic mountain has been well known for decades, Tenzing finally gives the Himalayan guide his day in the sun.
By focusing the narrative through Norgay’s story, Tenzing feels like an act of restoration. Peedom taps into the hopes and dreams of a man who was destined to remain a sherpa by British mountaineers, despite his incredible knowledge and skill.
It’s almost surprising how intimate the film can feel. Despite taking place on the side of Mt. Everest, the film isn’t really about showcasing the grand beauty of nature. (Though, to be fair, the cinematography is stunning.) Instead, she puts the emphasis on the relationships between the men themselves. As they endure the elements, Peedom keeps the camera up close to her adventurers, allowing us to become invested in them as people.
In short, we care about the men more than the mission itself.
Tenzing is playing at TIFF ’26. For more information, click here.
