The Academy Masterclasses: Directing 'Tenzing' with Jennifer Peedom & Actress Thinley Lhamo

In the inaugural episode of our brand new series, The Academy Masterclasses, Dom Lenoir sits down with director, writer and producer Jennifer Peedom and actress Thinley Lhamo to discuss the monumental task of bringing the true story of Tenzing to the big screen. Jen shares how her 23-year history with the Sherpa community in the Himalayas laid the groundwork for this epic feature. Together, they explore the complexities of adapting the historic Everest ascent, the logistical challenge of shooting at 3,500 metres in New Zealand and the vital importance of cultural authenticity on a massive set. 🎬 IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: Finding the Truth: How Jen approached the immense responsibility of telling a culturally specific story as a white Australian filmmaker by relying heavily on Sherpa cultural consultants like Dr. Lhakpa. The Audition Process: Thinley breaks down her journey to landing the role of Dawa, starting with a camera test in Nepal. Mountain Logistics: The brutal realities of filming at 3,500 metres altitude in New Zealand and creating a believable, immersive physical environment. Sonic Landscapes: Building the intricate sound design of the film, from wind chimes and baby yaks to the roaring elements of the mountain. Directing Performance: The collaborative push and pull between the director, actors and acting coach Miranda Harcourt to strip away theatricality and find true naturalism on set. PODCAST MERCH Get your very own Tees, Hoodies, on-set water bottles, mugs and more MERCH. https://my-store-11604768.creator-spring.com/ COURSES Want to learn how to finish your film? Take our POST PRODUCTION COURSE https://cuttingroom.info/post-production-demystified/ PATREON Big thank you to: Serena Gardner Mark Hammett Lee Hutchings Marli J Monroe Karen Newman Want your name in the show notes or some great bonus material on filmmaking? Join our Patreon for bonus episodes, industry survival guides and feedback on your film projects! https://www.patreon.com/thefilmmakerspodcast SUPPORT THE PODCAST Check out our full episode archive on how to make films at TheFilmmakersPodcast.com CREDITS The Filmmakers Podcast is written, edited and produced by Giles Alderson @gilesalderson Logo and Banner Art by Lois Creative Theme Music by John J. Harvey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices