VR Takes On Mt. Everest

Time Inc.'s Sports Illustrated and Endemol Shine Beyond USA are teaming on Capturing Everest, a multi-part, multi-platform documentary series that will be offered in virtual reality/360 video formats.

The series, shot on location over a two-month period using specialized cameras rigged to zip lines and body harnesses to capture a complete ascent of Everest,  is slated to premiere in early 2017 via Time Inc.’s new LIFE VR platform and SI.com in 360-degree video, they said.  Capturing Everest will be the first VR experience from SI to be offered on the new platform alongside other fare from Time Inc. brands such as Time and The Drive.

“Attacking the world’s highest summit seemed like the perfect place to go with our new VR initiative, and by partnering with Endemol Shine and adding in the world-class storytellers from Sports Illustrated, I think we have something truly special and unique to offer our audience,” Mia Tramz, managing editor of Life VR, said in a statement. “We can’t wait to bring viewers along for this once-in-a-lifetime journey. This is exactly the type of experience LIFE VR was created for.”

The series follows a team led by Garrett Madison, a six-time Everest summiteer who has led 37 climbers to the summit of the world’s highest peak, they said.

Watch a trailer for the series in 360-degree format.