Apple has made a significant acquisition in the world of cinema, securing the global rights to Mount Everest climbing drama Tenzing.
As per The Hollywood Reporter, the film, which boasts a star-studded cast including Willem Dafoe and Tom Hiddleston, tells the remarkable true story of Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, who famously led the first climbers to the summit of Mount Everest in 1953.
This exciting project was one of the hottest properties at the Cannes film market, garnering attention and ultimately being snapped up by Apple.
The package not only features A-list talent in front of the camera but also boasts an impressive crew behind the scenes.
Directed by Jennifer Peedom, known for her acclaimed documentaries Sherpa and Mountain, Tenzing promises to delve deep into the legacy of Tenzing Norgay and the Sherpa community.
Peedom's close relationship with the Tenzing family adds a personal touch to the film, ensuring an authentic portrayal of this historic event.
In Tenzing, Willem Dafoe takes on the role of English expedition leader Colonel John Hunt, while Tom Hiddleston portrays New Zealander Edmund Hillary, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
The casting for the pivotal role of Tenzing Norgay is currently underway, with anticipation building to see who will bring this iconic figure to life on the big screen.
Behind the screenplay is Luke Davies, best known for his work on the critically acclaimed film Lion.
The production is helmed by See-Saw Films, with producers Liz Watts, Emile Sherman, and Iain Canning leading the charge.
Their partnership with Apple, following their collaboration on the series Slow Horses, ensures that Tenzing will receive the attention and resources needed to do justice to its compelling story.
Joining the production as executive producers are Simon Gillis, David Michod, and Norbu Tenzing, the son of Tenzing Norgay himself.
Their involvement underscores the commitment to authenticity and respect for the legacy of Tenzing Norgay and his historic achievement.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the deal for Tenzing was negotiated by UTA Independent Film Group and Cross City Films.
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.