When I stepped into the community centre in Niseko-cho last week, I knew right away I was surrounded by fellow snow lovers. All clad in plaid shirts, down vests and beanies, there was no mistaking that we were all cut from the same cloth. The anticipation of the movie to come and the proximity of winter was palpable, despite the polite, faint murmurs inherent to most Japanese settings. I found myself a vantage point among the perfectly aligned selection of seats and watched the room fill.
“Valhalla” is Sweet Grass Production’s fourth feature film, created to delve into the unique sub-culture of skiing and riding particular to Western Canada. Not unlike “Into the Mind“, the idea was simple: allow non-skiers and riders a glimpse into what makes the slider tribe tick. Though I cannot testify to the success of this objective, I must say the movie spoke to my Ski Gypsy soul- I had a perma-grin for just over an hour.
As a stop on the official launch tour, Niseko was especially lucky to have a Sweet Grass crew member present the ski flick as lovingly as one would their own child. This was especially fitting given that the film’s main theme is re-discovering freedom through the eyes of the little ones we once were. Praise for the Niseko native snowboarders that featured in “Valhalla” was ever so quietly translated for the mostly Japanese crowd. Their unique, surf-like style was highlighted as a key aspect of the film, a fact I could only agree with.
The title takes on a dual purpose: first referring to the mythological heaven of Norse Lore, then identifying the mountain range that served as a backdrop and playground for much of the film. The story is centred around a main protagonist leaving his worries and responsibilities behind only to discover what he believes is ski and ride heaven. Through chapters named after different stages in human development, the viewer witnesses the main character’s triumphant return to child-like wonder.
“Valhalla” draws obvious parallels between ski culture and the hippy movement of the 1960s. Complete with trippy effects, nudity and nostalgic classic rock tunes, it’s a very successful tribute to the free-loving era. However, what I enjoy most about this Sweet Grass film is it’s capacity to surprise. No spoiler alert required here, but I will say that I laughed aloud (and alone in the respectfully quiet Japanese crowd… oops) and stared in complete wonder at scenes unlike any I have ever enjoyed before. It was quite simply stunning.
I give this movie ten out of ten snowflakes and one giant, gloved fist pump. Order the dvd from the official website or download a digital copy from iTunes. Check-out the remaining tour dates to see if you can still get the full experience.
Winter is coming,
K
*Image was sourced from the official Valhalla website