The Sherpas are a young group of filmmakers whose cinematic prowess affords them the ability to reach the next generation of shredders. The ultimate aim of their project has begun to give the community something it desperately needs. 

HOPE.   

By capturing both the threat of avalanches and the thrill of the backcountry experience, the film will demonstrate the precarious balance necessary for safely shredding the most sought-after lines. Due to arrive next fall, The Fine Line will promote widespread awareness by blending progressive skiing, snowboarding, sledding and ice-climbing with a message of warning.  

Chris Stethem of the CAF says that “the message is that there is a time and a place to go for it and a time to back off, but to recognize the difference you need to develop your skills.”

The Sherpas’ first large-scale shoot involved taking a handful of Red Bull athletes to a top-secret location deep within the BC Interior. Once there, they documented the action on both sides of the lens.

“I think most action sport films tend to focus on the technical skills and styles at the forefront of a sport, but we want to step back and look at the big picture,” says Dave Mossop, the director of the film.

In order to round out their message, the Sherpas have also been capturing the enlightenment of avalanche gurus, seeking the stories of avalanche survivors and recording the devastating nature of our current season. 

The Fine Line is broken up into 5 chapters: 1 primary emotional hook, and 4 avalanche safety training films.  But avalanche science is too complex to be taught in an hour and a half.

”A film can never replace hands on experience,” says Mossop.  ”The capital objective of our movie  is to convince the viewer to take an introductory avalanche course and to get outside and learn about the backcountry safely.”

Since the Sherpas intend to incorporate The Fine Line  into High School Curriculums across North America, they have to meet the challenge of engaging a young demographic of viewers. Of Course, the film will pique the interest of the entire snowsports community, so you can expect to see it at Film Festivals and retail outlets as well.

Check out the first teaser and stay posted for more updates from the Sherpas. Thanks for your support!

ATHLETES: Chris Rubens, Sean Petit, Mikey Rencz, Shin Campos, Eric Hjorleifson, Jen Ashton, Skye Sheele, Shandy Campos, Scott Penner, Kris Cormier, Shane Carmichael

AVALANCHE PROFESSIONALS: Grant Statham, Chris Stethem, Scott Flavelle, Dave Isles, Rocket Miller, Bruce Jamieson, Bill Mark

Due to the nature of a large-scale project such as this one, the Sherpas are still in need of support from the community. If you’re able to help in anyway possible, contact the film’s producer at malcolm.sangster@gmail.com.