Beyond the Edge

If you’re at all into the extremes of planet Earth, Beyond the Edge is recommended viewing. It’s a documentary about Sir Edmund Hillary’s 1953 conquest of Mt. Everest, using both archival footage, post-climb interviews, and newly produced recreations to paint a compelling portrait of the first successful trip to the highest point in the world. If, however, you’re not so into the tiniest details about the climb -- if simply acknowledging the historical relevance of the journey is enough -- well, there’s not much for you here. Beyond the Edge goes pretty deep into the vault, and it’s more a historical recitation than a pulse-quickening action flick. Still, there’s lots to marvel about the cinematography and the assembly of so many distinct parts.