Here are movies about skiing that even non-skiers will enjoy the depiction of the sport, its culture, and the breathtaking landscapes associated with skiing:
Downhill Racer (1969)
Starring Robert Redford and Gene Hackman, this drama follows a talented but self-centred skier (played by Robert Redford) as he competes on the international circuit, striving for Olympic glory.
Known for its realistic depiction of professional skiing.
Aspen Extreme (1993)
Starring: Paul Gross, Peter Berg. Two best friends leave their lives in Detroit to pursue their dream of becoming ski instructors in Aspen, Colorado. The film delves into their personal challenges, rivalries, and romantic entanglements.
The Great White Silence (1924)
Directed by: Herbert Ponting.
This silent documentary chronicles Captain Robert Falcon Scott’s ill-fated Antarctic expedition. While not exclusively about skiing, it includes striking scenes of early polar skiing.
A historical masterpiece showing the origins of skiing in extreme conditions.
Better Off Dead (1985)
Starring: John Cusack, Diane Franklin.
This quirky teen comedy features a high school student navigating heartbreak, self-esteem, and zany adventures, including an iconic downhill ski race against his rival.
The climactic ski race is a memorable pop culture moment.
Warren Miller Ski Films (Various)
Created by: Warren Miller.
A collection of documentary-style films showcasing incredible skiing footage, exotic locations, and humorous narration.
Some of the most notable films include Winter’s Edge (1956), Steep and Deep (1985), and Line of Descent (2017).
Warren Miller’s films are legendary in skiing, combining stunning cinematography with a love for the sport.
Swift. Silent. Deep.
Directed by: Jon Klaczkiewicz (2009)
The documentary tells the story of the Jackson Hole Air Force (JHAF), a group of renegade skiers who pioneered extreme skiing in the backcountry of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, during the 1980s and 1990s.
The group defied the constraints of traditional ski culture by exploring forbidden terrain, pushing boundaries, and embodying a daring, countercultural ethos.
Honorable mention:
Hot Dog… The Movie (1984):
A comedy about a freestyle skiing competition, known for its over-the-top antics and 80s flair.
Steep (2007):
A documentary exploring the history and culture of extreme skiing, featuring legendary skiers.
