"Everest" is a tale of survival set against the backdrop of a mountain expedition gone wrong when snowstorms and blizzards threaten to wipe out the very existence of the mountain climbers in spite of the best possible resources for safety around at the base camp.Nothing much to rave about and often too verbose, the first half is quite a drag which actually narrates the camaraderie among the camp organizers and the tourists who want to hit the highest peak at the Everest.Nothing really happens in the first half except for one scene across a bridge during the expedition.
The second half is slightly better but not outstanding either.Sweeping visuals of the mountains and snow storms make up for much of the lack of action and thrill.The performances are not great enough for an epic movie of this sort.Of the stellar cast ensemble, Jason Clarke,Josh Brolin and Jake Gyllenhall get meaty roles which they play with ease.For me John Hawkes who plays a father trying to prove nothing is impossible to his estranged children was perhaps the film's brightest spot.And the wonderful Keira Knightley as the expectant mother,Emily Watson as one of the adventure camp organizers and Robin Wright as the wife of one of the tourists who can sense some danger in this expedition infuse the film with the emotional anchorage that was much needed.For me the women in the movie were a lot better even considering their smaller secondary parts.Somewhere along the line , the handsome Sam Worthington and Martin Henderson play roles more than just eye candy..I am leaving out Jake Gyllenhall as he appears to be in deseprate need on a salon with his overgrown beard and tresses.
Everest can be recommended for its enticing visuals and a few genuine moments of survival that strongly cut across.The film is inspired by true life events.For fans who like adventure and expedition, I would recommend that they also carry truckloads of patience with them while viewing this one.