The Meeting 12 in Aspen Colorado

Traditions are important. They foster growth while reminding of us of our roots. They are a reason to reconnect with old friends, and a building block for new ones. Tradition cultivates community, and premiere season is one such tradition in snowboarding.

I am reminded of this while listening to the buzz of excited chatter while waiting for the lights to dim at the Wheeler Opera House during The Meeting in Aspen. The energy in the theatre is palpable. Theatre employees stand in the back of the house unsure of how to handle the charged crowd. Liquor sales in the lobby have already surpassed the typical show, and charged whoops and whistles only reinforce that this is not the theatre’s usual group of patrons.

The line up for films to be shown includes all of the season’s heavy hitters. The Fourth Phase is first up, and as one of the highest anticipated films in recent years, the theatre seems to have an extra buzz in the air. Everyone cheers in unison when Travis rises to the stage to introduce the film and the opening shots begin to roll. Gasps are expelled during hairy AK descents and the crowd cheers again in unison as riders make it through one sketchy situation after the next. Chatter fills the room as lights rise and credits roll. People give congratulations among themselves, sharing high fives and laughter.

/fter Forever is next, the 17th feature film from Absinthe Films. Justin Hostynek introduces the film to the audience before the lights dim again, beers are cracked, and the crowd again cheers as the opening shots roll. The approach and structure of /fter Forever is far different from The Fourth Phase, but that was to be expected. Comparisons are made, but most importantly, both are celebrated.

The Man Boy’s Movie is the last film on the docket and again chooses a different avenue for portraying today’s top snowboarders. The diversity in the evening’s line up of films does nothing to deter from participants enjoying any of the films, and this realization lingers with me upon exiting the theatre. While favorites will undoubtedly be picked in the coming weeks as films are re-watched and opinions are formed, it is important that this stage comes later. The initial gathering, the rekindling of community, remains first and foremost, a celebration.

I leave reveling in the magic that is the snowboard film premiere. It is the culmination of an immeasurable amount of work. Regardless of if the film was a single year project, or a four-year effort, it is nearly impossible to fully appreciate the dedication from all parties involved. Therein lies the importance of the premiere tradition, the community gathering to celebrate a completed film and to build excitement for the coming season. The night ends with new friends having been made, for tradition fosters growth and we share a drink to the coming year. We cheers to tradition and to snowboarding.