Climbers Jimmy Chin and Jim Morrison Rappel Down Everest Billboard

WEST HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — National Geographic has taken its marketing for the documentary “Everest: The Other Side” to an entirely new level — and, quite literally, down the side of a billboard.

To mark the film’s theatrical debut, Oscar-winning filmmaker Jimmy Chin and accomplished ski mountaineer Jim Morrison traded the Himalayas for a towering advertisement, rappelling down their own billboard in a daring promotional stunt.

On The Red Carpet spoke with the pair moments after they completed the unusual descent.

Morrison said the experience was both thrilling and unexpectedly large-scale. Seeing the billboard as they approached, he realized how impressive the setup was — and how long it had been since he had worn all of his climbing equipment. Pointing to the skis and gear featured in the display, he said it felt “pretty cool” to return to a vertical environment.

“Everest: The Other Side” chronicles Morrison’s deeply personal effort to become the first person to ski the North Face of Mount Everest. Considered the mountain’s most challenging and dangerous face, it is also regarded as one of the most sought-after ski descents in the world.

Through the film, Morrison hopes audiences will feel encouraged to confront the obstacles he describes as their own personal Everest.

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He said that everyone eventually faces a defining challenge, whether it involves grief, a loved one’s illness, a major personal ambition or several hardships at once. His hope is that viewers leave inspired to move forward, live fully and pursue their goals one step at a time.

Chin, whose documentary “Free Solo” won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, also explained why Morrison’s story appealed to him as a filmmaker.

He said he is drawn to movies built around powerful human experiences that can resonate with audiences. With “Everest: The Other Side,” Chin hopes viewers are emotionally affected and inspired, while also giving them a perspective on Mount Everest unlike anything they have seen before.

“Everest: The Other Side” is now playing in theaters and IMAX.

The Walt Disney Company is the parent company of National Geographic and this ABC station.