Skips Stones for Fudge

Skips Stones for Fudge is a 2016 documentary that poignantly portrays the unique and often overlooked world of competitive stone skipping. The film shines a spotlight on the handful of passionate practitioners who have devoted themselves to this art, including two key figures: Russ Byars and Kurt Steiner. This bespoke documentary, directed by Ryan Seitz, is an uplifting testament to the power of patience, practice, and a deep understanding of natural physics.

What seems to be a childhood pastime of skipping stones on a lake evolves into a dramatic and competitive landscape with high levels of discipline, scientific understanding, and physical prowess. The film showcases the intensity, ardour, and precision involved in what many would assume to be a simple, relaxing activity.

The film primarily revolves around Russ Byars and Kurt Steiner, two men united by their rare love for stone skipping. Byars, a Pennsylvania gentleman, is introduced as a world record holder and a seasoned veteran in this field. He is known for his smooth and steady skip that has led him to numerous victories.

In contrast, Kurt Steiner, residing in the tranquil woods of Ohio, is the driven challenger. Dubbed as the 'Eddie the Eagle' of stone skipping, Steiner may lack the natural grace of his more experienced counterpart, but his determination and focus are second to none. Despite being diagnosed with a chronic condition, he's hellbent on defying limitations and earning his place on top of the stone-skipping world. The film beautifully balances the lives of these two characters, their shared passion transcending their surface-level differences.

The film presents the viewer with a committed community composed of a rather diverse collection of enthusiasts - from physicists studying rock-throwing techniques to young dynamos yearning to etch their names in stone skipping history. Nestled in between the contest coverage and character exploration, the film also delves into the less known science and skills required to deliver a successful stone skip - it's not just about throwing a flat piece of rock across the water's surface. Also featured are the yearly stone-skipping competitions held at places like Franklin, Pennsylvania, and Mackinac Island, Michigan.

Skips Stones for Fudge immerses the audience not just in the drama on the water, but also in the personal lives of the two protagonists. Byars and Steiner share their past experiences, hopes, and aspirations, adding a personable layer to their characters. Viewers are quick to realize that their rivalry is respectful, rooted in admiration rather than animosity.

The documentary is exceptional in its storytelling technique. Ryan Seitz skilfully uses slow-motion photography, coupled with creative camera angles, to capture the skipping stones' flight. He harnesses the immersive power of the sensory details - the lapping of the water's surface, the impactful collision of stone and water, the meticulous choice, and preparation of the right stone - to entertain and captivate viewers.

The film's score, created by Philadelphia-based musician RJD2, complements the visual detailing perfectly. His soundscape varies from tension-filled electric to soothing and serene, enhancing the viewer's involvement in each character's journey.

Skips Stones for Fudge is a heartwarming, intimate look into a niche sport and the close-knit community that cherishes it. It elegantly illustrates how a simple activity can be transformed into a sporting event, given endless hours of practice, utter dedication, and a sparkling competitive spirit. The film beautifully transcends the boundary between child's play and serious sport and creates an emotional bond between the audience and the simple act of skipping stones across the water's surface.

Russ Byars and Kurt Steiner emerge from this film as fantastic ambassadors, not just of the art, but also of perseverance, commitment, and a unique form of athleticism. The documentary is an inspiration to viewers, charming them with its simplicity and gravitas, while prompting them to question how far they could go in pursuit of their own unique passions.

Skips Stones for Fudge is an intimate, endearing exploration of an oft-overlooked field of competition, rich with detail, emotion, and a profound understanding of an incredibly specific artform. The film serves as a testament to the undying human spirit, the consequent drama, achievement, and the natural elegance attached to setting a stone upon its journey across the water's surface.