Higher

Higher is a high-adrenaline, awe-inspiring documentary film from 2014 that beautifully integrates the thrill of adventure with the profoundness of respecting mother nature. This film breathes new life into the world of extreme sports cinema, specifically focused on snowboarding. It stars three outstanding snowboarding legends, Ryland Bell, Bryan Iguchi, and the man himself, Jeremy Jones. All known for their tenacity, skill, and deep-seated love for the mountains and the sport of snowboarding. The film is directed by Steve Jones and Todd Jones, who have managed to artistically render the electrifying vitality of snowboarding into an unforgettable cinematic experience.

The film Higher takes its audience on a thrilling journey through the steepest terrains and snow-clad pinnacles around the globe, neatly wrapping with the gripping narrative the core message of environmental conservation on our rapidly changing planet. Jeremy Jones, a pioneer in the world of snowboarding, teams up with fellow enthusiasts Ryland Bell and Bryan Iguchi, pushing the realms of possibility in this high-altitude sporting expedition.

The film aims to present snowboarding in its most authentic form by charting the trials, turbulences, and triumphs that these athletes undergo. It starts by providing viewers a glimpse into their love for the mountains, their unparalleled dedication, and the grit and determination needed to conquer some of the world's harshest and most remote terrains.

Jones and his team venture where no rider has set foot before, painting a picture of man's challenging and humble relationship with the overpowering forces of nature. The film takes you from the hushed wilderness of Wyoming to the untouched realms of the Himalayas, exploring these majestic landscapes and redefining the boundaries of professional snowboarding.

One cannot ignore the visually stunning cinematography beautifully woven into the narrative that brings to life the adrenaline, fear, and excitement associated with such daring expeditions. The larger-than-life, raw, and aesthetic appeal of the locales creates a sensory spectacle throughout the film that adds to the thrill of the narrative.

These experiments against nature's might are not without their dangers and the film doesn't shy away from showing these inherent challenges. Without giving anything away, we see moments of vulnerability, of raw fear, and painstaking preparation to help the athletes go up against, quite literally, towering odds. They not only have to tackle the physical aspects of this exploratory sport, but also the mental game that becomes ever more critical in such high-risk scenarios.

Higher is not merely a movie about snowboarding, it is a nuanced narrative that illustrates the real essence of exploration, the passion for one's craft, and the valuable lessons we learn from the raw, unedited notes of nature. The film subtly conveys that the drive for such dangerous pursuits is deeply rooted in the respect, connection, and understanding an adventurer has with nature. The trio's journey becomes a metaphorical exploration of their inner selves as well, reflecting our own personal, social, and ecological responsibilities.

The film interweaves personal dreams, ecological awareness, and athletic prowess into an engrossing narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The larger message beautifully packaged within the film emphasizes the preservation of these stunning landscapes.

Jeremy Jones’ dedication to responsible outdoor recreations is palpable throughout the film as he tries to bridge the gap between wanting to push the boundaries of his sport, while also doing it in a way that preserves the very environment that allows him to do so. It doors into the reality that their passion for the mountains would not be possible without mutual respect and protection for the environment.

In summary, Higher provides unparalleled insight into the world of snowboarding but also transcends the sport to portray humankind's relationship with nature, the thirst for exploration, and understanding our own individual responsibilities towards our planet. It vividly combines elements of personal adventure, collective responsibility, and profound introspection, offering an unforgettable cinematic experience to viewers of all ages. Whether or not you’re a fan of snow sports, this film draws you in with its compelling narrative, arresting visuals, and profound underlying themes.