Ski Films are for Everyone

With the continued growth of the ski industry has come a shift in the ski film industry. Companies are making films that are more accesible to the uninitiated (for example, last year's TGR film "The Dream Factory" tells the story of skiing in Alaska; it's as much a history lesson as it is an awesome ski film) while still displaying the athletic prowess of their cast. With films like those by Sherpas Cinema highlighting the environmental impact of the human race, and MSP creating a biographical film this year instead of their usual fare (one that wowed audiences at a film festival in NYC this winter), broader audiences are likely to find themselves partaking in the visual 'porn' that has historically been the fare of die-hard ski bums. As the audience broadens the athletes in the films must step up to the challenge of putting on a great show, not only to delight those who are already a fan of the sport, but to also make converts out of the laymen in the audience.

No more is the one-genre skier; with the demands of filming and getting sponsors, the truly successful skiers must now be qualified in aerial moves and big mountain, and having a bit of urban or park experience doesn't hurt. From the spines in AK to the trees in Japan, and everywhere in between, professional skiers must be able to step up to any challenge their film company proposes or they may find themselves being quickly replaced by the kids nipping at their heels. As a reflection of this, many ski film companies have broadened the scope of their films. Brotastic companies like Poor Boyz Productions are putting out some big mountain segments that can compete alongside segments from TGR and MSP. Sherpas, what I'd consider the Rolls Royce of film companies, can put out the sickest urban segment EVER.

Sure, there's always going to be the park rat, the big mountain junkie, the groomer addict, etc., but ski films are becoming broader which I think is a great thing. I can't sit through a whole movie dedicated to park and urban, but throw in a couple glade or spine shots to break it up and I'm happy. What's more, this shift gives skiers like Todd Ligare (an ex-racer) or Ted Ligety (a current ski racer) the opportunity to spread their wings and get thrown onto the wild slopes of AK to show what they've really got.

All this really shows us is that passion for the mountain is what matters, and no one discipline is best or sufficient to really appreciate the wonder of a nice pitch covered in soft, fresh snow.