Third Annual Film Grant Announcement
We are thrilled to reveal the recipients of our 2024 Backcountry Film Festival Human-Powered film grants! This year, we are supporting two compelling projects that elevate diverse voices within our snowy outdoor community.
“OUTLIER: Common”
In “OUTLIER: Common,” we journey with athlete-scientist Nina Aragon, athlete-community builder Vanessa Chavarriaga Posada, and athlete-filmmaker Dani Reyes-Acosta as they navigate the remote mountains and the forces of nature. With creative advice from Monica Medellin, this film redefines the portrayal of women—particularly women of color—in action sports media. “OUTLIER: Common” challenges us to rethink our relationships with each other and the Earth. We witness the cast’s evolving relationships with the mountains, themselves, and each other, offering an intimate look at their personal lives, including the balance of family, motherhood, mental health, and the pressures of the predominantly white, male-dominated snow industry. As these women make personal sacrifices to reach new heights, their sisterhood and love for snow, cultural ties, and community values provide the support that drives their exploration of self and the world.
“Surviving Our Story”
“The New Radical: Avalanche” is an episode of Connor Ryan’s new series called The New Radical exploring and redefining what is “RADICAL” in the sport of skiing through the lens of community, sustainability, and Indigenous culture. This gripping episode, directed by Isaiah Branch Boyle focuses on a harrowing avalanche incident in Colorado involving Connor Ryan and Ryan McClure.
“It’s a wildly scary film and one that all backcountry skiers should see!” -Producer, Bryan Cole.
As part of Connor Ryan’s series, it will be featured on his YouTube channel and showcases the importance of resilience and safety in the sport.
This film will be a part of the 20th Annual Backcountry Film Festival lineup this season!
Meet the Filmmakers
We’re so thrilled to award the creative and talented crews of these projects funding for their impactful films. Join us in celebrating their win and our partnership by learning more about the faces and skills you will see on screen!
We can’t wait for you to experience their powerful stories. Stay tuned for more updates and screenings!
DANI REYES-ACOSTA
Director & Producer of “OUTLIER: Common”
What is the Human-Powered Film Grant
Wild stories are told to connect individuals, communities, organizations, businesses, and more. Too often those connections don’t reflect all of the human-powered voices in our lives and outdoor spaces. Connection is built through representation.
Presented by Winter Wildlands Alliance and Sierra Nevada, the Backcountry Film Festival Human-Powered Film Grant provides financial support for these kinds of connecting stories.
One of the films will premiere each year at the Backcountry Film Festival winter tour – kicking off in our hometown in Boise, Idaho, and touring throughout the snow belt to your hometown.
Thank You to our Grant Sponsors
