The 30th annual film by Teton Gravity Research (TGR), titled “Pressure Drop,” premiered tonight at the Wheeler Opera House in Aspen, showcasing breathtaking backcountry skiing across the United States and Norway. Doors opened at 6:30 p.m., with tickets priced at $23 available through aspenshowtix.com.
Founded in 1995, TGR has become a leading name in extreme sports media, with its first film, “The Continuum,” released in 1996. This year’s feature reflects on the company’s journey and evolution in the skiing world. Directors Todd and Steve Jones have incorporated some of TGR’s earliest footage, illustrating the company’s roots and growth.
Colter Hinchliffe, a native of Roaring Fork Valley and a veteran of TGR, expressed enthusiasm for the film’s retrospective nature. “They show some of their very first clips they ever made and tell the story of how they began,” he said. Hinchliffe, who joined TGR for the 2012 film, “The Dream Factory,” highlighted the significance of bringing TGR’s films to Aspen. This year, filming took him to Alaska, though weather conditions limited his time on location.
Filming for “Pressure Drop” took place in various stunning locations, including Jackson Hole, Wyoming; Lofoten Islands, Norway; Valdez, Alaska; Grand Targhee, Wyoming; Interior British Columbia; Haines, Alaska; and Palisades Tahoe, California. Hinchliffe noted that this year, TGR opted for a more localized approach compared to previous productions.
Emerging talent Kelly Hilleke, who made his ski film debut in this project, shared his excitement about being featured alongside seasoned athletes. “For it to be the 30th year of TGR, I think it’s pretty cool that they’re still bringing in young blood,” he remarked. Hilleke joined the production in Jackson Hole and described the filming process as a significant departure from his usual skiing experiences, involving intricate logistical planning and teamwork.
Hilleke, now a participant in the Freeride World Tour, emphasized the impact of ski films on his life. “I’ve always looked up to people in ski movies, so now to be the one on stage throwing out swag is an unreal feeling,” he stated. The screening at the Wheeler, a venue he frequented as a child, marked a full-circle moment for him.
As technology advances and social media reshapes film distribution, Hinchliffe noted that traditional film productions are becoming less common. Yet, he believes that events like tonight’s screening foster community spirit and excitement for the winter season. “It brings a lot of people together to hoot and holler together and just get stoked for the winter,” he explained.
The film features a roster of renowned athletes, including Kai Jones, Sage Cattabriga-Alosa, Jeremy Jones, John Jackson, Maggie Voisin, Nick McNutt, Kristy Muir, Ian McIntosh, Teal Harle, Cass Jones, Jim Ryan, Grace Henderson, Troy Podmilsak, and Molly Armanino.
TGR’s film tour will continue until the end of January, with the final showing scheduled for January 29, 2024, at the Sheridan Opera House in Telluride. The tour includes stops in skiing communities worldwide, including locations in Norway and the Netherlands. Tonight’s event at the Wheeler marks a significant milestone in TGR’s legacy, celebrating their past while looking forward to the future of skiing and adventure sports.