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‘Tenzing’ Movie Review: Genden Phuntsok is Mr. Amazing in Jennifer Peedom’s Soulful Ode to an Overlooked Hero
The unstoppable human drive to explore the unknown has propelled adventurers towards the planet’s most remote corners, leading generations to navigate uncharted territories in pursuit of greatness. The 20th century has romanticized these journeys, often celebrating the individuals who dared to plant their flags on previously unclaimed summits. Among those heroes, few have been as overlooked and underappreciated as Tenzing Norgay, the Sherpa mountaineer who famously stood atop Mount Everest alongside Edmund Hillary in 1953.
Background on ‘Tenzing’
In her latest feature film, Tenzing, director Jennifer Peedom sheds light on this legendary figure, portrayed by Tibetan actor Genden Phuntsok in his English-language debut. This Apple TV production chronicles Norgay’s life using true events, showcasing his deep connection to the Himalayas and his spiritual reverence for Chomolungma, the mountain’s Tibetan name. The narrative follows Tenzing’s journey towards one of humanity’s most significant achievements, as he breaks free from the confines of his role as an overlooked Sherpa. With encouragement from his wife Dawa, played by Thinley Lhamo, and support from expedition secretary Jill Henderson, portrayed by Caitríona Balfe, Tenzing battles for acknowledgment as a climber in his own right, ultimately securing his position within the British expedition led by Colonel John Hunt, played by Willem Dafoe.
Key Developments in the Film
Peedom, known for her previous documentary Sherpa, takes a critical look at the historical framing that has often left Tenzing in the shadows while elevating Hillary as the recognizable face of the 1953 ascent. The film draws from Ed Douglas’s biography, Tenzing: Hero of Everest, effectively illustrating Tenzing’s early life and the significant responsibilities he held during the expedition. The narrative constructs a life far more intricate than the iconic photograph of two men standing triumphantly atop the world, highlighting the stark difference in recognition received by the two climbers after their historic accomplishment. While Hillary and Hunt were awarded knighthood for their feats, Tenzing received the George Medal, a civilian honor for bravery, creating a disparity that has drawn criticism from his family and supporters.
The story begins in 1924 on the Tibetan Plateau, where a young Tenzing, played by Samdrup Dorje Lama, is captivated by the majestic Chomolungma as he observes foreign mountaineers, including British climber George Mallory. This early interaction plants the seeds of an enduring obsession for Tenzing.
Contextual Examination of Tenzing’s Legacy
The film transitions between Tenzing’s childhood, his early family life with Dawa, and the climber he evolves into by 1953. As a member of the Bhotia community, Tenzing grapples with feelings of otherness, which amplifies as he navigates the expedition with an all-white climbing team. Yet his intelligence and impressive climbing skills eventually earn him respect, enabling a stage for his formal inclusion amid existing class hierarchies and underlying racial tensions.
Where Colonel Hunt views the expedition with a typical British sense of conquest, Tenzing regards the mountain with deep spiritual reverence. His Rinpoche at the monastery advises him to climb Chomolungma “like a child climbs into his mother’s lap,” illustrating the contrasting perceptions of the ascent.
Character Dynamics and Significant Performances
Adding depth to the narrative, Tenzin Jigmey’s portrayal of Pasang offers a sharp counterbalance to Tenzing’s enduring patience. Pasang, with his wry humor, recognizes the exploitative nature of the expedition as he observes white climbers basking in borrowed heroism, reflecting a broader commentary on the labor and sacrifices of the Sherpa community.
Phuntsok’s portrayal is celebrated for embodying the spirit and heart of Tenzing, filling the screen with a contagious joy that resonates throughout the film. His compelling performance creates an emotional connect, reinforcing the narrative’s essence while also drawing parallels to other celebrated roles in recent cinema, such as Ryan Gosling’s depiction of Neil Armstrong in First Man.
Cinematography and Sound Design
The film’s visual storytelling is enhanced by Stefan Duscio’s stunning cinematography, which showcases the austere beauty of Chomolungma, allowing the mountain to become a character in its own right. Duscio’s lens captures the grandeur of the landscape, communicating Tenzing’s profound connection to his surroundings. Complementing this visual feast, Rebekka Karijord’s emotive score weaves together traditional Tibetan elements, Buddhist chants, and soaring crescendos that heighten the film’s emotional impact. The inclusion of a stirring vocal piece by Nepalese Buddhist nun Ani Choying Drolma adds an ethereal quality, imparting an almost divine presence to the mountain.
Final Reflections on Tenzing’s Journey
While Peedom’s portrayal occasionally leans towards hagiography, the craftsmanship of Tenzing effectively compensates for this dramatic sanitization. In light of Everest’s tragic history, with more than 200 bodies still resting beneath its unforgiving slopes, the film invites audiences to reflect on Tenzing Norgay’s remarkable journey and the emotional resonance of his achievements. Ultimately, witnessing Genden Phuntsok embrace the screen with his infectious smile makes the cinematic climb well worth it.
Tenzing is now streaming on Apple TV.
