Filmmaker Tom Shadyac, known for such comedy films as Liar Liar and Bruce Almighty, is behind the documentary Memphis to the Mountain that is set to launch later this month.
Director Zachary Barr’s three-part project will begin streaming Sept. 5 on Hulu and Disney+, The Hollywood Reporter has learned exclusively. Sender Films and Shady Acres Entertainment produced the doc that landed at content studio Andscape.
Memphis to the Mountain follows a group of young climbers from an overlooked neighborhood in South Memphis who set out to summit the 16,000-foot rock tower of Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest peak. The project takes place over the course of a year, showing the preparation required for the arduous experience as the climbers train alongside such prominent figures as Free Solo subject Alex Honnold and renowned adventurer Philip Henderson.
Shadyac founded nonprofit climbing gym and community center Memphis Rox, which inspired Memphis to the Mountain. Local community leader Chris Dean collaborated with Shadyac in establishing Memphis Rox.
Barr directed the doc and executive produces alongside Shadyac, Kelley L. Carter, Jason Aidoo and Peter Mortimer. The trailer, which can be seen below, is exclusive to THR.
“Memphis to the Mountain is a celebration of what happens when you pour into a community and then watch it rise,” VP and head of Andscape Jason Aidoo says in a statement. “This story reminds us that greatness is already within these neighborhoods, waiting to be unleashed. Andscape is honored to share this deeply moving journey with audiences, and hopes it inspires others to tackle the challenges in front of them.”
Shadyac adds, “When we founded Memphis Rox, it wasn’t just about climbing — it was about standing with, and learning from, a community that is all-too often looked over, yet pulsing with promise. Memphis to the Mountain is proof of the transformative process that occurs when young people are able to reach beyond their circumstances, immerse themselves in nature’s beauty and brutality, and thereby discover the infinite potential that lies within.”
In his own statement, Memphis to the Mountain producer Dean says, “It isn’t just about conquering a mountain outside — it’s about scaling the walls inside each of us, and finding the strength to grow into a fuller version of yourself. It’s literally Memphis Rox’s mission come to life.”
Shadyac is known for directing such features as Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, The Nutty Professor, Liar Liar, Patch Adams and Bruce Almighty. His more recent projects as director include the documentary I Am and the biographical drama Brian Banks.