Apple’s “Tenzing” stars Genden Phuntsok as Tenzing Norgay and Tom Hiddleston as Edmund Hillary. The film releases in select theaters on October 9, 2026. Image: Apple Tv Press
A major cinematic retelling of Tenzing Norgay’s historic Everest achievement is heading to one of the world’s most influential film festivals. Tenzing has officially been selected for a Gala Presentation at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival.
TIFF’s 51st edition will take place in Toronto from September 10 to 20. The festival has listed Tenzing as a Canadian premiere, confirming that its Toronto screening will be the film’s first public presentation in Canada.
The designation also indicates that the film is expected to screen outside Canada before arriving at TIFF. However, the location and date of its world premiere have not yet been officially announced.
Directed by Jennifer Peedom, Tenzing is a narrative feature inspired by the life of legendary Sherpa mountaineer Tenzing Norgay. The story revisits the 1953 British Everest expedition, during which Norgay and New Zealand mountaineer Edmund Hillary completed the first confirmed ascent of the world’s highest mountain.
Genden Phuntsok portrays Tenzing Norgay, while Tom Hiddleston plays Edmund Hillary. Willem Dafoe appears as expedition leader John Hunt, with Caitríona Balfe also featuring in the cast. Apple previously confirmed that parts of the production were filmed in Nepal.
Genden Phuntsok as Tenzing Norgay | Image: Apple TV Press
TIFF lists the English-language film with a running time of 128 minutes and describes it as the story of the Nepalese Sherpa mountaineer who became one of the first two people confirmed to have reached the summit of Everest in 1953.
For Nepal, the Gala selection carries significance beyond the festival circuit. Tenzing Norgay remains one of the most internationally recognised figures connected with Everest, and the film has the potential to bring renewed global attention to Sherpa history, Himalayan communities and Nepal’s mountaineering heritage.
Peedom’s involvement may also raise expectations about the film’s treatment of Sherpa experiences. The Australian filmmaker previously directed the acclaimed documentary Sherpa, which examined the risks, inequalities and human realities surrounding commercial climbing on Everest.
The Gala Presentations programme is among TIFF’s most visible sections, traditionally featuring major filmmakers, prominent casts and titles positioned for strong international attention. The selection places Tenzing in a high-profile setting ahead of its wider release.
Further details, including its first festival appearance, official trailer and complete theatrical or streaming schedule, are awaited.
