Common Sense Media Review
By Jennifer Green
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Language, physical risks in inspiring Nepali climber docu.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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14 Peaks: Nothing Is Impossible
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 4 parent reviews
What's the Story?
Nirmal "Nimsdai" Purja is a Nepali mountain climber and former UK Special Forces member who gives up his army job to embark on a never-before-achieved quest in 14 PEAKS: NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE. Purja gathers a team of experienced Sherpas, trains, and fundraises for his "Project Possible," which aims to summit all 14 of the world's 8,000-meter mountains in under seven months, breaking the standing record of seven years. The film delves into the century of climbers attempting these treks, interviews world-renowned international climbers, tells Purja's personal story, and follows his team up and down mountains as they repeatedly risk their lives to meet their objective.
Is It Any Good?
If a documentary chronicling how an uncommonly charismatic, brave, and socially-conscious young man breaks six world records doesn't find an audience, there's something wrong. True, 14 Peaks: Nothing is Impossible might not immediately draw viewers without connection or interest in mountaineering. But its combination of life-or-death suspense, compelling back story, message of possibility, and gorgeous scenery prove captivating. Will the team of Nepali climbers reach their goal to summit 14 of the world's highest mountains in record time with no injuries or losses? Will the leader's beloved but ailing mother survive long enough to see her son's success?
The film bounces around in time to share leader Nims' backstory, including a devoted wife, a loving family, and an unparalleled drive, discipline, competitiveness, and physical prowess. Considering one of the film's key messages is fighting for recognition for overlooked Nepali climbers, it comes across as a little shallow that it dedicates so much time to Nims and almost none to the backgrounds of his other teammates who scale all the same mountains as him. But Nims is an undeniably appealing star, and his project gains from his online presence and likeability. His attachment and devotion to his mother are charming, and seeing her get flown in by helicopter in what looks like a fuzzy pink bathrobe to celebrate Nims' achievements is adorable. The film is dedicated to her, which seems just about right for the tale's message of aspiring to ever greater endeavors for reasons beyond self aggrandizement.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the community of mountaineers represented in 14 Peaks: Nothing is Impossible. Do they support one another, and how so? Do they critique each other?
Why does Nims suggest local mountain guides, known as Sherpas, have been too often overlooked in history? Where could you go for more information?
Where could you find out more about the mountains the "Project Possible" team climb and where they're located?
How do Nims and his team display courage and perseverance? Did you ever feel they were being foolhardy in their ventures? How did those traits serve them -- and sometimes others?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: November 29, 2021
- Cast: Nirmal Purja , Mingma David Sherpa , Lakpa Dendi Sherpa
- Director: Torquil Jones
- Studio: Netflix
- Genre: Documentary
- Topics: Sports and Martial Arts , Adventures , Friendship
- Character Strengths: Courage , Perseverance
- Run time: 101 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: February 17, 2023
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