Apple TV is about to release one of its best movies, ever ‣ Diverse Daily

Apple TV has found huge success with its original TV series, as evident by their record-breaking performance at the Emmy Awards, in which Widow’s Bay took home the most ever awards for a comedy. It best out the award set last year by another Apple TV series in The Studio. It’s not just the comedies, though, as Apple TV boasts plenty of popular dramas, including Slow Horses, that make the platform so popular.

Its movies, however, are a different story. With a handful of exceptions, most Apple TV movies are too silly, too serious, or simply too forgettable. However, an upcoming movie that premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival looks to offer a compelling story with plenty of drama to break that trend. I saw the Tenzing at TIFF; here’s what you need to know.

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Tenzing is a stirring true story about a treacherous climb

Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary scaled Mount Everest in 1953

Growing up in the shadow of Mount Everest, Tenzing Norgay always had an admiration and curiosity for the massive summit. Watching as foreigners came into his village to scale Everest, Tenzing’s fascination and respect for the mountain grew over time, and he was determined to climb it in order to meet the goddess within. Tenzing centers its focus on the Nepalese-Indian climber, played by Genden Phuntsok, returning to pivotal moments in his life as he prepares for a historic attempt.

As with so many Apple TV productions, Tenzing makes for an entrancing watch. Director Jennifer Peedom fashions a beautiful landscape on screen, including some pretty awe-inspiring moments during the final stretch of the climb. The story itself needs no exaggeration, and there isn’t anything here that feels melodramatic or overly saccharine. With a stunning backdrop and a true story that is compelling in its own right, Tenzing is set up for success from the start.

The film shies away from too much negativity, and after some thought, I think it’s for the best. Tenzing is an outsider in more ways than one; the British mountaineers see him as lesser, and even the Sherpas regard him as an outsider because of where his birthplace is located. Still, the film doesn’t want to wade through colonialism, racism, or discrimination; Tenzing’s knowledge and success is already established by the time the 1953 expedition is planned. The year before, he was part of a Swiss expedition that made it higher than any others had before; but they didn’t make the top.

Tenzing is shown as a loving father and husband, dedicated to proving his worth. His is a quest for honor and respect; he prays to the mountain for a safe ascent. That’s juxtaposed by Colonel John Hunt (Willem Dafoe), who has set up operations as a military campaign and uses words like “assault” when describing the expedition. Still, there are no real villains here, which certainly puts the film into crowd-pleaser territory.

And I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that. The movie is stunning to watch, and adheres to the title by focusing on Tenzing throughout. Tom Hiddleston plays Edmund Hillary, and while the two share some touching moments together, the film doesn’t get distracted. Part of that is because Phuntsok is quite charming in his understated performance. There is so much that’s captivating on screen, it’s hard not to be enamored.

Even though the ending is known, it’s still something special. The final ascent is both harrowing and thrilling, and there weren’t a lot of dry eyes in the theater where I watched it. That’s a testament to the direction, cinematography, and performances. Tenzing is genuine and absolutely worth a watch.

How can you watch Tenzing

The thrilling story is coming soon to Apple TV.

Tenzing saw its Canadian Premiere at TIFF, and it’s making its way to streaming fairly soon. The film will be available on Apple TV starting Friday, October 16. You’ll need a subscription to watch it. While Apple TV has a variety of plans, including bundled offers with its other services, there are plenty of free trials available too. A purchase of most new Apple products will likely get you a free trial or a month or three.

I would suggest watching the film on the biggest screen possible. It’s stunning to look at and deserves a proper set up. Toggle on Filmmaker Mode if you have it, and make sure you turn off any software enhancements on your TV.

Apple TV showcased more titles at TIFF

Slow Horses and an Oscar-hopeful debuted

Tenzing isn’t Apple TV’s only offering at the film festival. The opening night Gala Presentation was Being Heumann, another true story that follows disabled rights activist Judy Heumann protesting the government for access and rights. The movie definitely falls into crowd-pleasing territory as well, and stands out for its diverse cast of disabled actors. From the director of CODA, the film gives the impression it will be around during awards season.

The sixth season of Slow Horses also made a debut at TIFF, with the first two episodes debuting for critics and attendees. This season welcomes back a pair of characters as Slough House is threatened from the inside and out. There are at least two more seasons of the show coming, but this season feels especially perilous.