Challenge - Never Go Near Him

In 1975 a Kiwi expedition attempted to summit the north face of Jannu (aka Mount Kumbhakarna), a sacred Himalayan mountain with a forbidding reputation. This documentary follows the 12-strong team from their arrival in Kathmandu — and an abysmal haka attempt which dates the film — to the final push for the top. The party was led by British born climber Peter Farrell and included renowned mountaineer Graeme Dingle, who changes his mind about the safety of the climb. On 20 October, Dingle watches on as Farrell and Brian Pooley's summit attempt faces major challenges in sub-zero temperatures. 

No man will ever set foot on the north face of Jannu.

– A quote from the 1930s journal of English mountaineer Frank Smythe, summing up the intimidating reputation of Mount Kumbhakarna (Jannu)

Key Cast & Crew

Julian Dickon

Writer

John Callen

Narrator

Graeme Dingle

Subject

Edmund Hillary

Subject

Keith Hawke

Cinematographer

Ian John

Director, Editor