See-Saw Films has confirmed that it is developing a biopic about the famed Everest mountaineer Tenzing Norgay, titled “Tenzing.” Norgay summited the mountain with Sir Edmund Hillary in 1953, making him one of the first to do so. This was after six previous failed attempts to traverse the treacherous landmark.
The hunt for who will play the titular role is still underway. Tom Hiddleston (“Loki”) will star as Hillary alongside Willem Dafoe (“Poor Things”) as English expedition leader, Colonel John Hunt. The script for is “Tenzing” written by Academy Award-nominated Luke Davies (“Beautiful Boy”). It will be directed by Jennifer Peedom (“Solo”) who has the exclusive rights to tell his story.
“I could not be more thrilled to be bringing Tenzing Norgay’s story to the screen,” Peedom said. “I’ve been working towards this film my whole career, and I’m incredibly grateful to Tenzing’s family for entrusting me with it. I am excited to work with See-Saw Films and our amazing cast to bring this story to life. Tom Hiddleston and Willem Dafoe are two of the most generous and talented actors in the business, so pairing them with our brilliant Himalayan cast is going to be electric. I have no doubt this film will resonate widely. We all have our own mountains to climb, and this film shows us what human beings are truly capable of.”
The Family’s Reaction
“Jen is somebody who has earned the respect of our people, understands the community, and is deeply immersed in our culture,” said Norgay’s son Norbu Tenzing. “She’s a great human being and someone that we trust, and she has had a lifelong interest in the story of my father Tenzing Norgay. I am delighted that she has taken on this project and can’t wait for the world to see who my father was.”
“Tenzing,” will be presented to potential buyers at the Cannes Film Festival market. Producers on the film include Liz Watts, Emile Sherman, and Iain Canning for See-Saw Films, alongside Peedom and Davies. Simon Gillis, David Michôd, and Norbu Tenzing will executive produce.
There is no set release date for “Tenzing,” just yet. Apple Original Films has reportedly won world-wide distribution for the film.
