Film 'Tenzing' highlights overlooked Everest hero from 1953 ascent

Canberra filmmaker Jennifer Peedom has released 'Tenzing,' a biopic that focuses on Sherpa mountaineer Tenzing Norgay, who reached the summit of Everest alongside Sir Edmund Hillary in 1953, Harden Murrumburrah Express reported.

The film portrays the historic moment when Tenzing planted an ice-axe handle with flags into the ice at Everest's summit, an image that has become iconic. However, the story behind the first successful ascent has often overlooked Tenzing's contribution, which this film aims to correct, according to the Dungog Chronicle.

Actor Genden Phuntsok plays Tenzing with quiet intensity, depicting his journey from being abandoned by his parents and serving as a family servant to dreaming big while gazing at the Tibetan holy mountain, Chomolungma (Everest).

The film also shows the perilous descent after the summit and touches on the legacy of British mountaineer George Mallory, who disappeared on Everest 30 years earlier. Tom Hiddleston portrays Edmund Hillary, who appears to decline a photo opportunity with Tenzing, adding nuance to their relationship.

Set against spectacular landscapes, Peedom's film brings attention to the Sherpa's story, which has long needed telling, the sources noted.