Apple TV+

Most features about mountain climbers ("Everest" and "Vertical Limit") revolve around the sheer thrill of the expedition sought by adrenaline-seekers and high-achievers. The climb (or sometimes rescue mission) is the plot. Documentary filmmaker Jennifer Peedom's new biopic, "Tenzing," now streaming on Apple TV and starring Tom Hiddleston and relative newcomer Genden Phuntsok, might be the first one where the ascent takes a backseat in favor of characterization.

It's an apt choice given the true story-based movie focuses on Tenzing Norgay (Phuntsok), the first Sherpa to reach Everest's summit, and is dedicated to telling his long-overdue life story. It's the first live-action feature film devoted to Sherpas and their singular experience where all other men (mostly White and British) are secondary.…