Spectacular and suspenseful

Rating: 7/10 (9 October 2015)

Back in 1996, two "package tour" groups of climbers on Everest hit problems due to inadequate preparation, lack of fitness, and unanticipated bad weather.
This film's high-powered cast plays second fiddle to the spectacle on display. We learn just enough about key figures for us to identify with them when things go wrong, and to care about whether they make it back safely or not. The actors all do well, although Emily Watson as the base camp co-ordinator probably comes off best – I also like Keira Knightley's small but emotional performance, and Josh Brolin's character arc.
But above everything, this film is utterly spectacular, especially in 3D. Much of it must have been greenscreened, but the greenscreen is, for the most part, flawlessly integrated into background plates and CGI, and it is clear that the cast must have been exposed to at least some physicality above and beyond straightforward studio/location work.
Frankly, a lower profile cast would probably have been effective, because the strength of this film lies in its visuals and suspense. It is worth seeing, and preferably in 3D.