The Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival (VIMFF) returns to the Rio Theatre from February 26 – March 3.

The Shred Show: A full night of epic snow adventure stories explores the local legends, extreme objectives, the universal language of skiing, and the strength of our shared outdoor experiences.

CROSS TYROL (Austria / 30min / German with English Subtitles): Cross Tyrol is a documentary of a ski traverse through the mountainous Austrian state of Tyrol. The crew of skiers chose to conquer the 520km distance and 43,000 vertical meters only relying on their feet and ski lifts. The impressive alpine landscape poses some challenges for the crew of freeride skiers, who also seek out some spectacular freeride lines. The route starts in the very east of the country leading them to the highest peaks, over stunning glaciers, through deep valleys and into lively ski resorts. Thus, they experience the strong contrasts between untouched nature and busy ski resorts.

CYCLES (Austria / 13 min / English): Cycles is an all-female freeride, experimental movie production about the power that lies within living with the female cycle. Produced by an all-female crew. The film showcases a group of freeriders exploring the stunning Alps. However, it goes beyond just action and athletic performance. The project delves into the female cycle and the  transformative power of living in tune with it. Through an artistic and action-packed freeride film, Cycles portrays the four phases of the menstrual cycle. Its aim is to raise awareness among viewers about their own inner phases and provide a platform for this still tabooed topic.

DARKHORSE (Canada / 25 min / English): In today’s era of outdoor adventure sports, where social media followers, engagement and ‘likes’ have shaped the industry, an important question remains unanswered: If a snowboarder rides a steep, exposed line in the Whistler backcountry and no one sees it or hears it, did it really happen? Joe Lax would put this age-old philosophical debate to rest— “Who cares”? Darkhorse is an observational documentary following Joe Lax, a 44 year old Pemberton local, who’s created a life defined by snowboarding, family and wildfire. Despite his accolades amongst the mountains over the last two decades, he remains one of the most accomplished backcountry riders you’ve never heard of. And he’s happy to keep it that way.

FINDING AN EDGE (UK / 6 min / English): In the stunning Chamonix region, a group of injured Royal Marines embark on a life-changing challenge – learning to ski, which can be difficult even when uninjured. Focusing on Baz, an experienced former Royal Marines Commando and winter warfare specialist of the elite mountain leader branch, the group faces physical and emotional challenges. Doubts creep in, but sheer determination and a solid veteran family unit pulls him through. With unwavering camaraderie, they support each other through falls and failures, finding strength in their shared experiences. As they improve, their confidence grows, and they conquer the advanced slopes, proving that their injuries do not define them and true freedom is not out of reach. “Finding an Edge” – A short film celebrating the indomitable spirit of our veterans that also promotes accessibility in mountain sports.

THE FABULOUS LIFE OF NANCY GREENE RAINE (Canada / 10 min / English): The Fabulous Life of Nancy Greene Raine—or N.G.R. for short. N.G.R. has spent a lifetime showing the world what it means to love a sport. As a ski racer, coach, Olympic champ, mountain-resort visionary and Canadian Senator, Nancy Greene Raine is an inter-generational household name for many Canadians. But how much do you really know about Sun Peaks’ local celebrity? Turning 80 in 2023 and surpassing a milestone that a younger N.G.R. had never predicted, she’s left her footprint on both the resort and sport communities she’s led. Hold on to your toques because we’re dropping in, to a masterclass in how to live life at 90 km/hour! Tune in to weave through her exciting life story at a Nancy-approved pace.

Sunday, March 3
Doors 6:00 pm | First movie at 7:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.

Complete details and ticketing info can be found at www.vimff.org/tickets Please direct any questions or concerns about events or tickets to them.

This year’s festival is sharing over 70 curated mountain and adventure stories with the VIMFF community February 23 – March 3. The festival features special guest speakers, filmmaker intros, and expert-led workshops on photography, storytelling, and mountain safety skills.

*Minors permitted. Must be 19+ w/ID for bar service.
*All seating is General Admission. Please arrive early to ensure time for great seats, and to purchase treats at concession.
*Unless noted otherwise, tickets will be available for purchase at the Rio Theatre’s box office at showtime. Please direct all queries regarding ticketing to www.vimff.org
*Sorry, Rio Theatre Groupons and passes are n/a for this event.