The Great Siberian Traverse

Combining the brilliant elements of adventure, friendship, and skiing, "The Great Siberian Traverse" is a breathtaking cinematic journey released in 2015. The film unveils an audacious journey taken by renowned skiers Ingrid Backstrom, Nick Martini, and the local expert skier Vitaly Kishkinov, accompanied by cinematographer Sergei Klimov who provides a vivid and immersive depiction of the landscapes. This adventure-backed documentary from North Face and Sherpas Cinema takes audiences from Moscow to the distant corners of Siberia, bringing to life the unspoiled, untapped beauty of Russia's wild winter landscape.

"The Great Siberian Traverse" begins in Moscow's frenzied surroundings, displaying the cultural splendor and hectic life of Russia's capital city, the departure point for the exploratory journey that would cut across the vast expanse of Siberia. Ingrid Backstrom, Nick Martini, and Vitaly Kishkinov, the trio of prodigious skiers, is set to discover Siberia's untapped snowy playgrounds. Their mission is to traverse the 8000 kilometers of the Trans-Siberian Railway, from Moscow to the eastern terminus at the Pacific Ocean by cross-country skiing, trains, and snowcat.

As they crisscross through Siberia's vast icy landscapes, the audience is taken on a visually striking tour of timeless villages, frozen rivers, and dense Winter forests. The team's interplay, camaraderie, and individual personalities add the human element to the wrap of extremity, adventure, and the sheer grandeur of nature. There are moments of levity and tension, highs and lows, that resonate with every adventurer's heart.

Ingrid Backstrom, a world-renowned skier and adventurer, offers a compelling and aspirational presence. Her guileless enthusiasm, determination, and ecstatic joy on the snowy slopes are infectious. Sharing the screen, Nick Martini brings a mix of expertise and youthfulness, adding a fresh and modern take to the extreme sport. Meanwhile, Siberian local Vitaly Kishkinov brings his knowledge of the local terrain, culture, and weather conditions, crucial for the survival and success of their audacious journey.

Sergei Klimov's expert cinematography is arguably the fourth protagonist of the story. He expertly captures the raw, untouched beauty of the Siberian wilderness, inviting viewers into its heart. The sweeping, panoramic shots of the untamed landscapes, the intimate moments captured within the transient nature of trains, and the electrifying downhill ski runs all combine seamlessly to paint a captivating picture of this thrilling journey. Klimov's lens skillfully captures the contrasting elements of Russia's extreme winter, evoking the audience's sense of awe and putting the scale of the adventurers' journey into perspective.

Amidst the high-adrenaline ski sequences, the movie also delves into local Russian cultures and lifestyles. As the adventure unfolds, a subtle and unobtrusive dialogue on the cultural richness and diversity of Siberia evolves. The meeting with the locals, the various chance encounters on the trains, and the glimpses of rural life give a broader perspective to the thrilling adventure.

"The Great Siberian Traverse" showcases the metaphorical similarities of life and an adventure trip, while also exploring the bond between humans and nature, friendship, and the quest for adventure. Director Nick Martini displays an uncanny ability to keep the narrative pacey and engaging, taking the viewers on a thrilling ride from start to finish. Throughout the journey, there is always an undercurrent of passion and respect for the land and its people, making it not just a sports documentary but a heartfelt tribute to Siberia.

"The Great Siberian Traverse" is an exhilarating cinematic journey that beautifully traces the thrill of adventure and the unspoiled, majestic beauty of Siberia. With its vivid cinematography and captivating narrative interspersed with thrilling skiing sequences, it's a visual treat and a call to the wild for every adventurer at heart. It is a journey that immerses the viewer in its joy, challenges, camaraderie, respect for local cultures, and above all, the untamed, wintry beauty of Siberia.