166. The Wall Of Shadows; movie review

THE WALL OF SHADOWS

Cert 12A

94 mins

BBFC advice: Contains infrequent strong language

"I have climbed Everest nine times," stated Sherpa Ngada in a similar the matter-of-fact way we would describe trips to our local theatre.

Of course, guiding expeditions to the world's highest peak is his profession rather than a lifetime ambition but he stresses that the moment that he doesn't pay it respect, could be his last.

Everest may be tourist sauce but it is not the Himalayan mountain which puts most wind up the sherpa.

He maintains his utmost respect for Kumbhakarna which is sacred among native Nepalis because it is believed to represent God. It is also considered tougher than Everest.

Thus, according to Kirant religion it is not supposed to be ascended.

And, when Ngada and his family is asked by a group of Western climbers to lead a trek up the mountain's unconquered eastern side, he should say no.

However, his son has dreams of becoming a doctor and a fast way of paying for his studies is by taking on the trip.

Director Eliza Kubarska presents some incredible images from the Himalayan range at the top of the world.

And she presents a compelling documentary-turned-drama in which dilemmas face the tourists as well as the sherpas.

The point which really grabbed me was that a wrong decision of either the family and the Western climbers really could result in life or death.

For example, there is one conversation in which one mountaineers says he isn't feeling the 'vibe' from his colleagues and, consequently, believes he should quit.

But there are no histrionics - despite the huge costs and effort which would have gone into set-up.

Fulfilling a dream for money pitted against the will of the spirits makes for a fascinating new view of life amid the most treacherous but beautiful peaks on the planet.

Reasons to watch: A different take on climbing in the Himalayas

Reasons to avoid: Prior knowledge would be handy

Laughs: None

Jumps: None

Vomit: None

Nudity: None

Overall rating: 7/10

Did you know? The Sherpas are an ethnic group who live in the high mountain region of the eastern Himalaya. About 3,000 of Nepal's more than 10,000 Sherpas reside in the Khumbu valley, the gateway to the southern side of Mount Everest.

The final word. Eliza Kubarska: "The Sherpas I show are from eastern Nepal, and you can’t just drop in there for coffee – to reach their village, I had to walk for two weeks, in very harsh conditions. I think they appreciated it. When I finally got there and explained what I wanted to do, they were happy to participate." Cineuropa

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