Zurich Film Festival to open with ‘Tenzing’ starring Tom Hiddleston and Willem Dafoe

The 22nd Zurich Film Festival (ZFF) will open on September 24 with the European premiere of ‘Tenzing’, a period adventure drama directed by Jennifer Peedom. The film, produced for Apple TV, depicts the true story of the first successful ascent of Mount Everest in 1953.

Starring Tom Hiddleston as Edmund Hillary and Willem Dafoe as expedition leader Colonel John Hunt, the film follows the journey of Nepalese-Indian Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, played by Genden Phuntsok. The production also features Thinley Lhamo as Dawa and Caitríona Balfe as Jill Henderson.

ZFF CEO Christian Jungen noted that the film aligns with the festival’s 2026 motto, ‘Dream big’, highlighting themes of personal growth and the importance of respecting local Sherpa people and nature. Hiddleston, Dafoe, and Peedom are expected to attend the opening night gala in Zurich. Following its debut at the Toronto Film Festival, ‘Tenzing’ is scheduled for a limited theatrical release on October 9, followed by an Apple TV release on October 16.