CENTERblog

Wintervention

by Emily Klopfer - Dimond High School

“This is not just a showing of Wintervention, this is its Alaskan premiere, so let’s hear some noise!” the DJ said to the audience. The Atwood Concert Hall erupted in cheers as everyone prepared to view Warren Miller’s new documentary, Wintervention.

In his 61^st film, Warren Miller presented a movie populated not only with breath-taking ski shots, but also with bits of humor. The movie began with the theme of a radio talk show in which ski fanatics would call the host about their addiction. The host would then perform an intervention, or in this case, a “wintervention.”

Skiing was the main focus of the film, but snowboarding was also included. Each segment contained spell-binding shots of professionals dashing down near-vertical mountain chutes. The skill displayed in these sections was incredible. These shots were paired with trick skiing, in which skiers would fly off jumps and twist in the air, barely managing to land on the snow. Each of these points in the film brought gasps and cheers from the audience. The occasional image of a fall would fetch numerous groans of those who knew how a fall in the powder felt. The audience participation made it evident that Wintervention was a winner.

The skiing was not the only draw for audiences, but also the spectacular landscape. The movie was shot in places such as Antarctica and New Zealand. Featured resorts included Vail, Telluride, Heavenly, and Alaska’s own Alyeska Resort. The spectacular views from each of these places was enough in and of itself to evoke cheers from the audience.

Attending the show was a diverse range of people. Both young and old came to attend the premiere. Some were dressed up, other sporting their sheepskin skiing hats. Each of these people came to watch the skiing, and the professionals who showed off their skills. Many skiers and snowboarders were showcased during the film. One of the more recognizable was Lindsey Vonn, the famous American downhill skier.

During intermission, a representative from Alyeska was able to plug for the resort. Following this, she drew names out of the bin of entries, and lucky audience members were able to go home with new K2 skis, Alyeska Resort tickets, and even the chance to be entered and win a trip to a ski resort. The drawing involved the entire audience and prompted them to participate in both the contest, and the Wintervention experience.

When the film ended, it was met with an intense volume of cheering. The response from the audience was a tribute to Warren Miller and an indication that he had once again accomplished a great film. Many people walked away from the theatre Wednesday night (October 27) inspired to ski and knowing how they were going to spend the rest of the winter. Overall, Warren Miller’s Wintervention was a complete success.

Wintervention

Warren Miller Entertainment

October 27, 2010 at 6pm

Atwood Concert Hall