French comedian/actor Ahmed Sylla stars in French filmmaker Ludovic Bernard’s feature directorial debut, “L‘Ascension” (“The Climb”), which premiered its first trailer today.

Bernard is actually a veteran assistant director who’s worked on several Luc Besson produced or directed action films like the “Taken” franchise, as well as “Lucy” (which starred Scarlett Johansson), and others.

Besson doesn’t appear to be involved in his directorial debut, “L’Ascension,” which is produced by DACP Films, with a 2017 release date eyed in France.

Written by Nadir Dendoune (a journalist and the author of the novel that inspired the film: “Un tocard sur le toit du monde”), as well as Olivier Ducray and director Bernard, the film, inspired by a true story, tells the story of Samy (played by Ahmed Sylla) who sets out to climb Mt. Everest to prove his love for his girlfriend Nadia – a journey scaling the legendary literal top of the world which, in the end, leaves all of France captivated, passionately following this ordinary young man’s extraordinary journey for love.

Joining Ahmed Sylla in the film are Alice Belaïdi, Nicolas Wanczycki, Denis Mpunga, Maïmouna Gueye, Kevin Razy and Waly Dia.

“L’Ascension” is produced by Laurence Lascary for DACP Films, in a co-production with France 2 Cinéma, Mars Films and Rhône-Alpes Cinéma.

Mars Distribution is handling the film’s French theatrical release, which is set for January 25, 2017. No word on if there are plans for it to travel.

Check out the first trailer below, which is in French minus English subtitles: