Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi

“There are very few things of virtuosity or genius that you can actually witness.”

“My parents are both immigrants, and we traveled a lot.”

“I truly believe our work is an extension of who we are, and I constantly strive to push myself and my teams.”

“The cinematography and the conditions in which 'Meru' was filmed drew me to the project. It's remarkable to think that everything in the film is real; these three men set out to attempt this impossible climb and to film it at the same time.”

“I was fortunate to come from a family that supported my dreams.”

“I was no stranger to risk myself, having made documentaries in dangerous conditions in Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Africa.”

“Professionally, I made my first film at 20 in a war zone in Kosovo.”

“At its heart, 'Meru' is a personal story.”

“That's what happens in feature docs. The more time you spend, the more nuance emerges, the more a story evolves - but it's different than fiction, where you can reshoot something.”

“Growing up biracial and speaking four languages - French, Chinese, Portuguese, and English - gave me a different lens. I was always very acutely aware of coming from a different perspective. I think that definitely contributed to what I chose to do with my life.”

“The top climbers in the world had attempted this climb and couldn't do it. That history is what makes Meru special.”

“Climbing is an understated culture.”

“You just hope that your kids find what they love to do and abide by the law and make good decisions. The best you can do is instill such values in them.”