
The Icefall Doctor
The Icefall Doctor
The Icefall Doctor is based on the life of Everest legend Angnima Sherpa, a significant presence on the mountain, but obscure in the vast world of Everest history and film, even for Everest enthusiasts. Angnima worked on Everest since 1975, on what is statistically the most dangerous profession on earth: managing the Khumbu Icefall on Everest by fixing and maintaining the ropes and ladders that Western mountaineers use to have an opportunity to summit. He himself was the first official Icefall Doctor, a term bestowed on him by thelegendary guide Rob Hall. The film is a kaleidoscopic and meditative view on Angnima’s last season as leader of the Doctors before his death. His story reveals culture, commitment to family, chasms of class and financial inequity, and the burden of environmental stewardship. For over ten years we were granted unprecedented access to film the Icefall Doctors, and received support from the Embassy and Ambassador of Nepal.
The Icefall Doctor is based on the life of Everest legend Angnima Sherpa, a significant presence on the mountain, but obscure in the vast world of Everest history and film, even for Everest enthusiasts. Angnima worked on Everest since 1975, on what is statistically the most dangerous profession on earth: managing the Khumbu Icefall on Everest by fixing and maintaining the ropes and ladders that Western mountaineers use to have an opportunity to summit. He himself was the first official Icefall Doctor, a term bestowed on him by thelegendary guide Rob Hall. The film is a kaleidoscopic and meditative view on Angnima’s last season as leader of the Doctors before his death. His story reveals culture, commitment to family, chasms of class and financial inequity, and the burden of environmental stewardship. For over ten years we were granted unprecedented access to film the Icefall Doctors, and received support from the Embassy and Ambassador of Nepal.
Original Language
Nepali/ Sherpa
Direction
Sean Burch
Camera
Hari Thapa/ Sean Burch
Editing
Sean Burch
Sound
Krishna Om Thapa/ Hari Thapa/ Sean Burch
Script
Sean Burch
Producer
Sean Burch