‘Everest’ chosen as opening film of 72nd Venice film fest

Universal Pictures’ epic adventure “Everest,” directed by Baltasar Kormákur, has been selected as the opening film, out of competition, of the 72nd Venice Film Festival (September 2nd – 12th 2015).

The world premiere of “Everest” will be screened on September 2 in the Sala Grande theatre (Palazzo del Cinema) at the Lido. Inspired by the incredible events surrounding an attempt to reach the summit of the world’s highest mountain, “Everest” documents the awe-inspiring journey of two different expeditions challenged beyond their limits by one of the fiercest snowstorms ever encountered by mankind. Their mettle tested by the harshest elements found on the planet, the climbers will face nearly impossible obstacles as a lifelong obsession becomes a breathtaking struggle for survival.

“Opening the Venice film festival has proven to be good luck for the awards race, with the last two openers, `Gravity’ and `Birdman,’ netting a slew of nominations and some major wins,” says UK newspaper The Guardian. “Baltasar Kormakur’s survival thriller `Everest’ will be keen to follow,“ adds The Guardian‘s review, predicting the film might pick up nominations for best picture, director and supporting actor.

“Everest” is a Working Title Films production starring Jason Clarke, Josh Brolin, John Hawkes, Robin Wright, Michael Kelly, Sam Worthington, Keira Knightley, Emily Watson and Jake Gyllenhaal, produced by Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner, Baltasar Kormákur, Nicky Kentish Barnes, Brian Oliver and Tyler Thompson. Universal Pictures and Walden Media’s presentation of “Everest”—in association with Cross Creek Pictures—is adapted for the screen by William Nicholson (“Gladiator”) and Oscar® winner Simon Beaufoy (“Slumdog Millionaire”).

The film was shot on location in Nepal on the foothills of Everest, the Italian Alps and at Cinecittà Studios in Rome and Pinewood Studios in the U.K.

“Everest” is opening across the Philippines on Sept. 16, 2015.