Everest

"Everest"is the true story of the ill fated 1996 expedition by a group of amateur and professional climbers who sought to reach the top of this most difficult of all mountains to ascend. The film stars Jason Clark who portrays Rob Hall, the real life leader of the expedition. Mr. Clark is  ably abetted by Keira Knightley, John Hawkes, Jake Gyllenhaal, Robin Wright, Josh Brolin and Emily Watson. Written by William Nicholson and Simon Beaufoy, the movie was directed by Icelandic director Baltesar  Kormakur whose deft hand and skill help make this 121 minute film move at a very comfortable pace. Of course the real star of the film is Mt. Everest itself for it is the dominance of this natural edifice that controls and ultimately destroys so many who have challenged it. Chronicled in the best seller by Jon Krakauer  ("Into Thin Air")  the film plays more like a documentary and its realism is the essence as to why this film is so good. As stated by Mr. Clark's character in the film, these climbers are asked to exist at an altitude level equal to that which 747’s fly. A most amazing feat and one that tests the stamina and sensibilities of both the characters in the film and those in the audience watching it. I give the film 3 and ½ stars with a suggestion that it be seen in 3D for the cinematography and views of the mountain are alone well worth the extra price of admission.