Team Picks
Don't know where to start? Here's some of our personal favourites.
Jacqui Scott
CEO
Perspective is everything, and this film reminds us of the joy and beauty of time in the mountains, and the love and strength of family. A definite 2024 Festival highlight, watched with Sir Chris Bonington, who reflected: “It represented exactly what the Festival stands for — showing the challenges and reality of an expedition, and how it’s the people you share it with that make it meaningful.”
Steve Scott
Festival Director
In over 20 years at the Festival, this is one of the best in its category. Matthew Tufts’ unique approach captures perhaps the most audacious ski line ever attempted — Fitz Roy’s near-vertical granite walls. Blending photography, journalism and high-level skiing, it honours the mythical Whillans–Cochrane ramp first skied by Festival friend Andreas Fransson (RIP) in 2012.
Clive Allen
Festival Director
Fell running. The characters, camaraderie, competitiveness, lung-bursting climbs and the pure exhilaration of the descent. This lovely film takes you straight to the heart of the sport, capturing its spirit, challenge and joy in a way that makes you want to lace up and head for the hills.
Faye Latham
Film & Arts Manager
It’s impossible to pick just one favourite, but The Fingerboarder stands out. I love films that give a rare glimpse into the lives of people following their own unique path. Beautifully shot and whimsical, it asks us to take passion seriously — however wonderful or whacky that passion may be.
Rosina Merrett
Marketing & Communications Director
This film makes me smile. It’s a reminder of the power of community, the joy to dare, to live, to laugh, to have fun and to share with friends. I aim to take inspiration from these wonderful women as often as possible, and to embrace their fearless approach to life.
Ben Cannon
Brand & Programming Manager
Rarely do we see a film filled with such pure adventure. With an all-star cast, it opens our eyes to locations rarely visited by Western cultures. Getting locals involved in such a monumental challenge is nothing but inspiring, and a reminder of the deep connections exploration can create.
Jenny Rice
Design Manager
This multi-layered environmental film blew me away. Stunning cinematography, beautiful storytelling and incredible archive footage from 1980s activism combine to create a powerful and moving experience. Franklin leaves you with a real sense of hope, and a renewed belief in the power of people to create lasting change.
Indus Hill
Events & Business Manager
A fresh take on what an expedition film can be. Manu Delago and his ensemble turn the mountains into both stage and instrument, performing original compositions in high-altitude settings. It’s rare to see music and adventure woven together so seamlessly, resulting in something deeply human and awe-inspiring.
Dom Westwell
Production Manager
A fresh take on what an expedition film can be. Manu Delago and his ensemble turn the mountains into both stage and instrument, performing original compositions in high-altitude settings. It’s rare to see music and adventure woven together so seamlessly, resulting in something deeply human and awe-inspiring.
Jen Dickinson
Tour & Events Manager
A simple, honest short. Euan makes wooden skis in Scotland, and it’s fascinating to see the love and care in their creation. Stories that speak volumes don’t only come from athletes in exotic places — sometimes they’re found up the road, in a workshop, rooted in craft and tradition.
Annabel Howell
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
A fantastic window into the world of female paddlers in Futaleufú, Chile, and the positive impact kayaking has on their lives. It’s inspiring to see the benefits of paddling as they navigate their teenage years. Such brave, fun, inspirational young women — what’s not to love about their story?
Amy Huxtable
Programming Coordinator
Mesmerisingly smooth mountain biking paired with ambient jazz — this short feels like the definition of “flow state”. Beautifully simple, Drop the Mic was one of our 2025 Tour films, and I’ve seen it more times than I can count. I’m still just as hooked as the first viewing.