Abstract:

DAUGHTERS OF EVEREST brings a unique flavor to a familiar story: the attempt to climb Mount Everest. In 2000, the first-ever expedition of Sherpa women to climb Everest was organized. This captivating documentary gives a close-up account of the expedition. To the Sherpa people, the ethnic group legendary for their unmatched skill in mountaineering, the mountain is a holy place. Mount Everest is Chomolongma, "Mother Goddess of the Universe." Ironically, Sherpa women have long been discouraged from climbing the powerful and daunting Everest, relegated instead to more traditional roles as homemakers or into support roles in the prestigious climbing industry of Nepal. The documentary follows the five diverse, charismatic women chosen for this historic expedition. Told from a woman's perspective rarely seen on Everest or off, DAUGHTERS OF EVEREST is both a dramatic, inspiring Everest story and an absorbing portrait of the Sherpa community. Special Jury Prize - Mountain Film, Telluride, Colorado Grand Festival Award - Berkeley International Film & Video Festival San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival Mountain Film, Telluride, Colorado The Asian Film Festival of Dallas Mt. Shasta International Film Festival DC Asian Pacific American Film Festival The Berkeley Film & Video Festival