Legend of Aahhh's is a 2013 American documentary film that explores the origins of extreme skiing in the United States, as well as its evolution into a worldwide phenomenon. The movie follows the rise of a group of young and adventurous skiers in the 1970s who were pushing the limits of what was considered possible on the slopes. These skiers, including such legends as Scot Schmidt, Glen Plake, and Mike Hattrup, challenged traditional skiing norms by skiing in unconventional locations and terrain, such as extreme backcountry, steep chutes, and high cliffs.
The film is directed by Greg Stump, a ski filmmaker who is credited with creating the "ski movie" genre. He is well-known for his high-energy and unorthodox style of filming skiing, which places a heavy emphasis on freestyle and extreme skiing. Legend of Aahhh's is his return to the genre after a 20-year hiatus, making it a highly anticipated film for ski enthusiasts.
The movie opens with a brief history of skiing, dating back to the time of ancient Norwegians who used skis for transportation and hunting. This sets the stage for the transition to skiing for sport and enjoyment, which we see unfolding in the United States in the 1940s and 50s. From there, the movie chronicles the arrival of extreme skiing in the United States in the 1970s and its rapid evolution in the decades following.
We are introduced to a cast of colorful and charismatic characters, who tell their stories of how they first got into skiing, how they pushed the limits of what was thought possible, and the risks they took along the way. These interviews are complemented by stunning footage of skiing in various locations around the world, shot by Stump and his team.
What sets Legend of Aahhh's apart from other ski documentaries is its focus on the culture of skiing. The movie explores the social and artistic elements of skiing, highlighting the creativity and individuality of the sport. We see skiers expressing themselves through fashion, music, and art, as well as through their skiing styles.
Throughout the film, Stump explores the question of what draws people to extreme skiing. Is it the adrenaline rush of skiing a steep and dangerous line? Is it the sense of freedom and escape from the mundane? Or is it something deeper and more spiritual? The film doesn't offer a definitive answer, but instead presents a range of perspectives from its subjects, leaving the viewer to draw their conclusions.
Aside from its captivating subject matter, Legend of Aahhh's is also a visually stunning film. The cinematography captures the awe-inspiring beauty of the natural world and the thrill of skiing in extreme environments. Stump's signature style of filming production builds drama and intensity, using close-up shots of skiers' faces and slow-motion footage to emphasize the excitement of the ski runs.
In conclusion, Legend of Aahhh's is a thrilling and visually captivating documentary that chronicles the rise of extreme skiing in the United States, exploring the personalities, culture, and motivations behind this unique and exhilarating sport. Whether you're an avid skier or simply appreciate beautiful filmmaking, this movie is sure to impress.
Legend of Aahhh's is a 2012 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes.
