"First Female Ski Film Debuts: Focus on Girls"
=================================================================================
The ski film "Advice for Girls," which made its debut at the Roxy theater in Missoula on the 6th and 7th of December, has been making waves in the ski community. This groundbreaking film, created by filmmaker Addy Jacobsen and a team of female producers, is the first ski movie to feature an entirely female cast and crew.
The film serves as a powerful call to action for girls and young women in the sport, repeatedly urging them to "take up space" in a male-dominated industry. It addresses the longstanding issue of the "token female" in ski movies, where one woman in a mostly male cast receives little camera time. Instead, "Advice for Girls" provides a platform for female skiers to shine, offering advice, support, and inspiration to their peers.
The film's focus extends beyond the slopes, addressing the challenges faced by female skiers, such as not receiving credit or recognition. It aims to spur a change in the ski industry, ensuring that female skiers receive the representation and screen-time they deserve in future films.
The film showcases a diverse range of talented skiers, including Ingrid Backstrom, a prominent female athlete with extensive experience in ski films and recognized for her influence in action sports. Other notable skiers featured include Devin Logan, the first ever US women's slopestyle Olympic medalist, Amie Engerbretson, and Lynsey Dyer.
Younger skiers such as Rylee Watson, Caroline Brokaw, and Autumn Evanko are also prominently featured, performing impressive feats such as Evanko's backflip off a cliff in one of the final scenes.
The screening was a hit among the Missoula ski community, particularly women and girls, who came dressed in costumes, including sparkly face paint and pink fluffy boas, to show their support. The filmmakers, including Jacobsen, who read a poem she wrote early in her ski career at the beginning of the film, and the cast, who participated in a group party run at Snowbird in Utah, were present to introduce the film.
The film's release reflects a growing movement towards greater gender representation in action sports media. By showcasing women's skills and perspectives both on and off the mountain, films like "Advice for Girls" inspire female skiers, provide role models, and challenge stereotypes. While the direct impact of this film remains to be seen, it undoubtedly marks a significant step forward in the fight for gender equality in the ski industry.
[1] Ingrid Backstrom's influence in action sports: [https://www.outsideonline.com/2298241/ingrid-backstrom-skier-womens-movement]
- Renting a cabin in a home-and-garden setting, perfect for outdoor-living, would allow community members with shared interest in action sports, like those featured in the ski film "Advice for Girls," to actively engage in sports activities and bond over lifestyle choices.
- As the ski industry evolves and strives for gender equality, the influence of athletes like Ingrid Backstrom, who has made significant waves in the action sports community, serves as a beacon of change and inspiration for young girls darkening the sports landscape.
- The sport's club in this community hosts an annual event, combining their love for sports, home-and-garden gatherings, and outdoor-living, featuring a diverse range of activities such as ski documentaries, discussions with industry leaders, and outdoor group runs.
