"Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa" – A Captivating Journey of Resilience Comes to Netflix
Released on July 31, 2024, "Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa" is an inspiring documentary now streaming on Netflix. The film chronicles the extraordinary story of Lhakpa Sherpa, a single mother and mountaineer who became the first Nepali woman to conquer Mount Everest and survive the grueling challenges of the world’s highest peak.
Festival Premiere and Accolades
The documentary premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 8, 2023, where it earned significant acclaim, finishing as the second runner-up for the prestigious People’s Choice Award in the documentary category. With its addition to Netflix, audiences worldwide can explore Sherpa’s remarkable ascent and the hurdles she overcame on her journey to the summit.
Critical Reception and Audience Response
Reviews for "Mountain Queen" have been overwhelminglypositive, boasting a 100% critic score and a 91% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The documentary has captivated viewers and critics alike, who praise its breathtaking cinematography and Lhakpa’s inspiring narrative.
Prominent publications have highlighted the visual splendor of Sherpa’s climbs, with The Hollywood Reporter noting the stunning high-altitude photography by Matthew Irving. They commended the gripping moments captured, illustrating both the excitement of Lhakpa’s climbs and the palpable tension of her daughter, Shiny, waiting at base camp, concerned for her mother’s safety amidst perilous weather conditions.
In a glowing review from Variety, it was noted, “In Walker’s hands, it becomes clear that Sherpa’s genuine humility and positive outlook emerged from confronting seemingly insurmountable challenges, which she bent to her will by way of unwavering resolve.”
Danny Leigh from the Financial Times echoed this sentiment, applauding Lucy Walker’s ability to weave compelling narratives about human resilience at extreme heights.
Conversely, audience reactions on Rotten Tomatoes align with critical acclaim, as viewers like Karl W have described it as a “Tremendous film,” encouraging others to watch without prior information to fully appreciate its impactful storytelling.
Key Insights on the Cast and Crew
Lucy Walker, the acclaimed director behind "Mountain Queen," has a history of tackling human experiences in challenging environments, known for her previous works like "Waste Land" and "The Tsunami and the Cherry Blossom." The film features Lhakpa Sherpa and her family, including daughters Shiny and Sunny Dijmarescu, alongside Nima Sherpa.
Cinematography in the documentary is handled by an adept team, including Matthew Irving, noted for earlier works such as the 2020 film "Lost on Everest." The emotive soundtrack is composed by Adam Peters, recognized for his contributions to various films, including "Savages."
"Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa" is more than just a documentary; it is a tribute to the tenacity of human spirit and a beacon of inspiration for women everywhere. Available now on Netflix, the film is a compelling exploration of perseverance, striking visuals, and personal triumph against all odds.