The Summit of the Gods

In 1924, British mountaineers George Mallory and Andrew Irvine set out to conquer Mount Everest, a daunting challenge at the time. Their expedition ended mysteriously when they were never seen again, leaving their fate a topic of speculation for decades to come.

Seventy years later, in the late 1990s, young Japanese reporter Makoto Fukamachi meets a mysterious climber named Habu Joji. Fukamachi believes to have spotted Mallory's camera in Habu's possession, which leads him to question if Mallory and Irvine were the first to summit Everest.

Determined to uncover the truth, Fukamachi begins investigating Habu's climbing history. He interviews former associates and uncovers Habu's preference for solo climbs, a trait that became pronounced after a young mentee tragically died during a climb.

Fukamachi's interest escalates into an obsession with mountaineering. He begins intense fitness training to prepare himself for a potential climb, motivated by the need to learn more about Habu and the iconic Mount Everest.

Eventually, Fukamachi travels to Nepal in his quest to find Habu. This journey marks the beginning of his deep exploration into the world of mountaineering and the burdens that climbers carry.

After much searching, Fukamachi locates Habu living in a hut close to Mount Everest. Initially resistant, Habu ultimately agrees to allow Fukamachi to document his upcoming attempt to climb the treacherous southwestern face of Everest.

Fukamachi and Habu set forth on the daunting climb, under strict conditions that prohibit any communication or assistance. The agreement underscores the solitary nature of Habu's mission and the immense risks involved in such a pursuit.

As they ascend, a fierce storm hits, causing Fukamachi to struggle with pain and exhaustion. Realizing Fukamachi is in danger, Habu makes the selfless decision to double back, sacrificing his own chance to summit the mountain.

After ensuring Fukamachi's safety, Habu continues the climb alone. He pushes forward through challenging conditions, embodying the relentless spirit of mountaineers committed to conquering Everest's peak.

Fukamachi waits at the base for several days, anxiously hoping for Habu's return. As time passes without any sign of his climbing partner, his concern grows, questioning the perilous nature of their expedition.

Habu's sherpa arrives with the camera belonging to Mallory along with a letter from Habu. In the letter, Habu reflects on his journey, hinting that he succeeded in his climb but met with a tragic end.

Back in Japan, Fukamachi develops the film from Mallory's camera, gaining insights into the motivations and experiences of mountaineers. He begins to understand the dangerous allure of climbing, leading him to reflect on his own desires.

Inspired by Habu's unwavering determination, Fukamachi decides to attempt his own summit of Everest. He aims to honor both Habu's legacy and the mountaineering spirit that has captivated him throughout his journey.

Fukamachi sets out for Everest once more, now with a clear purpose. His journey signifies not only a physical challenge but also a personal pilgrimage, as he seeks to reconcile the risks and passions that define mountaineering.