Film: 'Everest' (seen in 3D)

Whether the extremely impressive, dizzying shots are enough to hold ones attention in flat-screen, 2D format I can't say, but it's the mountain vistas that are the real star of this film - and jaw-dropping they are too. Otherwise, it's a fairly insubstantial film, largely of bit-parts, apart from one particular dramatic family situation.

Based on a true story of a climbing expedition in 1996 it's not giving much away to say that deaths of some of the participants was involved (though I don't recall the news item myself). Some big or biggish names feature in the cast - Brolin, Gyllenhall (J), Worthington, Knightley - as well as Emily Watson whom, on screen, it is never less than a pleasure to see.

I was a bit surprised to find that the summit was reached just before half-way into the film - though it's the descent that is far and away more eventful and emotionally involving, featuring, as it does, a terrifying storm.

Icelandic director Baltasar Kormakur obviously knows his stuff and how to capture it visually.
I'm one of those people who, when at the top of a high building, gets a nervous tickle on the soles of my feet (and another part of the anatomy), coupled with an almost compelling urge to throw myself off. I don't know how common this is, though a niece of mine gets the same sensation. During this film several times I felt emotions akin to this which, I'd imagine, wouldn't have been nearly as acute had I seen it in 2D.

It's a film that's a bit different from the usual entertainment. Although not one for those prone to vertigo, it's definitely a visual stunner..............................6.